Glow in the Dark Rice Krispies Treats Recipe
Glow in the Dark Rice Krispies Treats are a fun and visually stunning twist on the classic marshmallow rice cereal bars. Infused with tonic water containing quinine and optionally vibrant neon food coloring, these treats glow brilliantly under a blacklight, making them perfect for parties and special occasions. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, they offer a playful and magical dessert experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 4 cups mini marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup tonic water (must contain quinine for the glow effect)
- Neon food coloring (optional, highly recommended for maximum visual impact)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray, or prepare silicone molds if you want shaped treats. Set it aside while you work on the marshmallow mixture.
- Melt the Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously with a spatula until the marshmallows become smooth and completely melted.
- The Magic Step – Add Tonic Water: Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly pour in 1/4 cup tonic water. Stir vigorously; the mixture may become slightly frothy, which is normal and essential for infusing quinine to create the glowing effect.
- Add Food Coloring (Optional): For extra visual excitement, divide the marshmallow mixture into different bowls and add drops of neon food coloring like electric green, bright orange, or intense blue. Stir until colors are evenly distributed.
- Combine with Rice Krispies: Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the marshmallow mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat every piece of cereal with the sticky, glowing mixture. Repeat this step if using multiple colors.
- Transfer and Press: Spoon the coated cereal mixture into the prepared pan or molds. Use a piece of greased parchment paper or a buttered spatula to press the mixture evenly and firmly into place to ensure proper setting.
- Let Them Set: Allow the mixture to cool at room temperature for 1–2 hours until firm. Once set, cut into squares or pop the shapes from the molds. Turn off the lights and use a blacklight to reveal the treats glowing brilliantly.
Notes
- Ensure the tonic water used contains quinine, the ingredient responsible for the glow under blacklight.
- Neon food coloring is optional but enhances the visual glow effect significantly.
- Use a spatula or parchment paper to press the mixture firmly to avoid crumbly bars.
- Store the treats in an airtight container to keep them fresh and chewy.
- For safety, avoid consuming excessive quantities of tonic water due to quinine content, especially for children or individuals sensitive to quinine.
Keywords: Rice Krispies Treats, Glow in the Dark, Quinine, Tonic Water, Neon Food Coloring, Marshmallow Treats, Party Snacks
