Cotton Candy Rice Krispies Twists Recipe
Introduction
Bring the magic of the carnival to your kitchen with Cotton Candy Rice Krispies Twists. These colorful, fluffy treats combine the classic crispness of Rice Krispies with a fun cotton candy flavor, perfect for parties or a sweet snack anytime.

Ingredients
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows
- 1 tsp cotton candy flavoring (or cotton candy extract)
- 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- Food coloring (pink, blue, or any colors you prefer)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth.
- Step 2: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cotton candy flavoring. Divide the marshmallow mixture evenly into separate bowls depending on how many colors you want.
- Step 3: Add a few drops of your chosen food coloring to each bowl and mix well to create bright, vibrant hues.
- Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, place the Rice Krispies cereal. Pour each colored marshmallow mixture over the cereal in turn, folding gently to coat the cereal evenly without crushing it.
- Step 5: Using buttered hands or a spatula, gently twist strands of different colored Rice Krispies mixtures together to create a swirl effect. Be careful not to compress them too much.
- Step 6: Arrange the twists on a parchment-lined baking sheet. If desired, dust lightly with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and a carnival look. Let cool until set.
- Step 7: Once firm, serve and enjoy your colorful Cotton Candy Rice Krispies Twists!
Tips & Variations
- Try swapping cotton candy flavoring with vanilla or strawberry extract for different tastes.
- Use gloves or butter your hands when shaping to prevent sticking and keep the shapes neat.
- Add sprinkles or edible glitter to enhance the fun, festive look.
Storage
Store these treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid refrigeration as it can make them hard. To refresh slightly hardened twists, microwave briefly in 10-second intervals.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Yes, regular marshmallows will work fine, but mini marshmallows melt faster and more evenly, making the process smoother.
Where can I find cotton candy flavoring?
Cotton candy flavoring or extract is often available at specialty baking stores, online retailers, or in the baking section of larger supermarkets.
PrintCotton Candy Rice Krispies Twists Recipe
Cotton Candy Rice Krispies Twists are a fun and colorful twist on the classic Rice Krispies treat. Infused with sweet cotton candy flavoring and vibrant food coloring, these light and crispy snacks are perfect for parties, celebrations, or just a delightful treat for kids and adults alike. The addition of powdered sugar dusting adds a touch of extra sweetness and a whimsical finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows
Flavor & Color
- 1 tsp cotton candy flavoring (or cotton candy extract)
- Food coloring (pink, blue, or any colors you prefer)
Cereal
- 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Optional
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare the marshmallow mixture: In a large saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over low heat. Once melted, add the entire package of mini marshmallows and stir continuously until they are completely melted and smooth.
- Add cotton candy flavoring: Remove the marshmallow mixture from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of cotton candy flavoring or extract. Mix well to combine the sweet, whimsical flavor evenly throughout the mixture.
- Add food coloring: Divide the marshmallow mixture if using multiple colors. Stir in desired food coloring(s) such as pink, blue, or any vibrant colors you prefer. Mix thoroughly until the color is uniform.
- Combine with cereal: Gradually add 3 cups of Rice Krispies cereal to the colored marshmallow mixture. Gently fold the cereal in using a spatula until completely coated, taking care not to crush the cereal.
- Shape and twist: Lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray and shape the mixture into long ropes or twists. You can create a single color twist or combine different colored ropes and twist them together for a fun rainbow effect.
- Optional dusting: If desired, dust the shaped twists with powdered sugar to add a delicate sweetness and a whimsical cotton-candy-like appearance.
- Set and serve: Place the twists on wax paper or a greased baking sheet and let them cool and set for about 30 minutes. Once firm, serve immediately or store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Ensure marshmallows are melted completely to avoid grainy texture.
- You can use cotton candy extract or flavoring available online or at specialty stores for the authentic taste.
- Food coloring is optional but adds to the fun visual appeal of the twists.
- For a stronger twist effect, make ropes thinner and twist tightly.
- Store leftover treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them crispy.
Keywords: cotton candy rice krispies, rice krispies treats, cotton candy flavor, kids snack, colorful treats, party snacks

