If you’re looking for an irresistibly fun and spooky treat this season, these Rice Krispie Treat Ghosts are exactly what you need. Combining the classic nostalgia of gooey marshmallow cereal bars with a playful Halloween twist, these little ghostly figures will delight both kids and adults alike. Light, crispy, and sweet with just the right touch of chocolatey eyes, Rice Krispie Treat Ghosts are as charming to look at as they are delicious to eat. Plus, they come together quickly with simple ingredients, making them a perfect project for a cozy afternoon or a party-ready snack.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Rice Krispie Treat Ghosts lies in their few but essential ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating that signature crispy texture, rich flavor, or ghostly appearance. From the creamy marshmallows to the crispy rice cereal, let’s dive into what you’ll need to make these adorable treats.

Dark cocoa candy melts: Provides the perfect deep brown color and melts smoothly for piping ghost eyes.
Rice Krispies Cereal: The crispy base that adds crunch and lightness to the treats.
Salted butter: Adds richness and helps the marshmallows melt evenly without burning.
Mini marshmallows: The gooey, sticky binder that holds everything together with a fluffy texture.
White candy melts or white chocolate chips: Adds extra sweetness and helps melt-in for binding the marshmallows and cereal.

How to Make Rice Krispie Treat Ghosts

Step 1: Prepare the Ghost Eyes

Start by melting the dark cocoa candy melts in the microwave using 30-second bursts to avoid burning, stirring after each interval until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate into a small zip-top bag and snip off a tiny corner for piping. On a parchment-lined baking sheet, pipe 24 small teardrop-shaped eyes to give your ghosts their spooky expression. Pop the sheet in the freezer for about 3 minutes to set the chocolate eyes firm, then leave them at room temperature until you’re ready to assemble.

Step 2: Make the Marshmallow Mixture

Spray a large mixing bowl lightly with baking spray and pour in the Rice Krispies cereal, setting it aside for now. Cut the salted butter into small pieces and place them in a medium-large saucepan over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and white candy melts or white chocolate chips, stirring frequently. When about three-quarters of the marshmallows have melted, remove the pan from heat and continue stirring vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy.

Step 3: Mix and Shape the Ghosts

Pour your melted marshmallow mixture over the Rice Krispies cereal and stir gently but thoroughly until every crisp is coated with that luscious, sticky sweetness. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes until it’s comfortable to handle without burning your fingers. Pinch off twelve portions, roughly half a cup each, then roll them into balls. From these balls, shape cones and pinch the tops into points, curving them gently to create the whimsical ghost shapes everyone will adore.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches

Press two chocolate eyes onto each ghost while the marshmallow coating is still tacky so they stick well. If any eyes don’t adhere perfectly, a tiny dab of the remaining melted candy melts will do the trick as ‘glue.’ Let the ghosts sit at room temperature for about an hour to firm up completely before packaging or serving.

How to Serve Rice Krispie Treat Ghosts

Garnishes

To make your Rice Krispie Treat Ghosts even more festive, sprinkle some edible glitter or dust lightly with powdered sugar to mimic a spooky, misty aura. Mini candy pumpkins or orange sugar crystals around the plate add a burst of color and seasonal vibe that everyone will love.

Side Dishes

These treats shine on their own but pairing them with a cup of hot chocolate or a spooky punch can be delightful. You might also serve them alongside pumpkin muffins or caramel apples for a full autumn-themed spread that keeps the fun and flavors rolling.

Creative Ways to Present

Display your Rice Krispie Treat Ghosts in clear cellophane bags tied with orange and black ribbons for party favors. Or arrange them standing on a decorative tray surrounded by faux spider webs and plastic spiders to turn your snack table into a Halloween showstopper. Kids might also enjoy decorating their own ghosts with edible markers or extra chocolate bits, making this treat a fun interactive experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep your Rice Krispie Treat Ghosts fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay chewy and delicious for up to 3 days, perfect for making ahead for a party or event.

Freezing

If you want to make Rice Krispie Treat Ghosts in advance, freezing is a great option. Wrap each ghost individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well frozen for up to a month. When ready to serve, thaw them at room temperature.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat Rice Krispie Treat Ghosts, but if you prefer a softer texture, a quick 5-10 second burst in the microwave can warm them slightly. Just be careful not to overheat, or they’ll get too sticky and lose their shape.

FAQs

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?

Absolutely! Regular marshmallows work just as well. You might need to cut them into smaller pieces for faster melting and easier stirring.

What if I don’t have candy melts?

You can substitute white and dark chocolate chips, but candy melts tend to melt more smoothly and set up nicely for piping shapes like the ghost eyes.

Can I make the ghost shapes different sizes?

Yes! Feel free to get creative with your ghost sizes. Smaller ones are perfect for bite-sized treats, while larger ghosts make dramatic centerpieces.

How do I prevent the chocolate eyes from smudging?

Freezing them briefly helps the chocolate harden quickly, making it easier to handle and less likely to smear during assembly.

Are Rice Krispie Treat Ghosts gluten-free?

Most Rice Krispies cereals contain malt, so they aren’t always gluten-free. Be sure to check the packaging if you’re serving someone with gluten sensitivities or choose a certified gluten-free rice cereal.

Final Thoughts

Making Rice Krispie Treat Ghosts is such a delightful way to add a dash of whimsy and nostalgia to your snack lineup. They’re quick, fun, and guaranteed to bring smiles wherever they go. Whether you’re making them with kids, prepping for a party, or just craving a sweet seasonal treat, these ghosts are a total win. Give them a try—you’ll be amazed at how easily these simple ingredients transform into a memorable Halloween favorite!