If you’re short on time but craving something sweet, microwave rice krispie cake is the fast fix you didn’t know you needed. This five-minute dessert turns pantry staples like cereal, marshmallows, and butter into a gooey, crunchy delight—all without heating the oven. In this article, I’ll share my go-to method for making rice krispie cake in the microwave, plus tips for keeping it from turning soggy. Whether you’re a college student, a busy parent, or just someone who loves fast desserts, this mug-sized treat is the perfect solution. It’s every bit as fun and nostalgic as it is delicious.
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Microwave rice krispie cake recipe – ready in 5 minutes
Microwave rice krispie cake made in just 5 minutes! Soft, chewy, and packed with gooey marshmallow goodness. No stovetop, no fuss—just a quick, satisfying treat.
- Total Time: 5 min
- Yield: 15 bars 1x
Ingredients
1/2 cup salted butter (or unsalted + pinch of salt)
16 ounces mini marshmallows
9 cups crispy rice cereal (like Rice Krispies)
Instructions
1. Add butter and marshmallows to a large microwave-safe bowl.
2. Microwave on high for 1 minute.
3. Stir well, then microwave for another 30 seconds.
4. Remove and stir until smooth and fully melted.
5. Fold in the cereal until evenly coated.
6. Press the mixture firmly into a greased 9×13 dish.
7. Let cool for 30 minutes before slicing into bars.
Notes
Use fresh marshmallows to keep the texture soft and chewy.
Grease your hands or spatula to make pressing easier.
Add-ins like chocolate chips or sprinkles can be mixed in quickly before pressing.
Bars are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 2 min
- Cook Time: 3 min
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 193
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 79mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 16mg
Table of Contents
The Story Behind My Microwave Rice Krispie Cake Craving
It All Started with a Craving and Zero Patience
A few winters ago in Asheville, I found myself curled up with a blanket, desperate for something sweet, but I refused to turn on the oven. I scanned the pantry: a half bag of marshmallows, a box of Rice Krispies, and some butter. That’s it. Then I remembered the stovetop version of the classic treat and wondered—could this work in the microwave?
Turns out, it could. That quick experiment led to the most comforting single-serve dessert I’d had in ages. I melted the butter and marshmallows in a mug, stirred in the cereal, and it came out just the way I wanted—warm, sticky, and crunchy. Since then, it’s been in my regular dessert rotation, just like my other microwave favorites such as this chocolate chip mug cake, which also relies on simple ingredients and minimal cleanup.
What Makes This Treat So Special (Besides Speed)
Microwave rice krispie cake isn’t just about speed—it’s about the unbeatable combo of nostalgia and texture. That sweet, gooey base holding crunchy cereal is a reminder of school parties, bake sales, and those no-bake weekends growing up. But making it in a mug means you don’t need a pot, pan, or even a tray. It’s a one-step cleanup miracle.
Every time I make it, it brings the same joy I get from other quick creations like this oreo cake mug recipe. Both are single-serve, no-fuss desserts that somehow taste like you spent way more time than you did. And honestly, isn’t that the dream for every home dessert lover?
Quick Ingredients & Microwave Rice Krispie Cake Instructions
What You Need for the Perfect Microwave Rice Krispie Cake
One of the best things about a microwave rice krispie cake is how little you need to make it happen. Most of these ingredients are probably in your pantry already. You’ll want to use fresh marshmallows for optimal melting, and real butter is key for that rich flavor.
Here’s what I use for a single-serve portion:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup Rice Krispies cereal
- Optional: a pinch of salt or a drizzle of chocolate chips
This recipe keeps things classic, just like how I stick to simple flavors in my lemon mug cake, letting the texture and contrast shine. No extra fluff—just the core of what makes the treat so craveable.
Step-by-Step Instructions (Under 5 Minutes Total)
Making a microwave rice krispie cake takes less time than scrolling through your feed for dessert inspiration. Here’s the step-by-step breakdown:
- In a microwave-safe mug, add the butter and marshmallows.
- Microwave for 30–45 seconds, or until the marshmallows puff and the butter melts.
- Stir until smooth and well-combined.
- Immediately mix in the cereal and stir to coat everything evenly.
- Press the mixture gently into the mug and let it sit for a minute or two.
That’s it. The texture is everything—sticky, slightly stretchy, and crispy without turning soggy. It reminds me of the balance I aim for in my butterfinger caramel cheesecake bars, where the contrast in each bite is the entire experience.
Microwave Rice Krispie Cake Variations Worth Trying
Add-Ins That Take Microwave Rice Krispie Cake to the Next Level
Once you’ve nailed the basic microwave rice krispie cake, it’s time to get creative. Think of the original as your foundation, and then let your pantry inspire the rest. A spoonful of peanut butter stirred into the melted marshmallow mix adds a nutty richness that’s hard to beat. Toss in a few chocolate chips or even crushed pretzels for texture contrast.
These small tweaks mirror the creative freedom I love in recipes like this pineapple juice cake, where one unexpected ingredient transforms the entire flavor profile. You can also mix in white chocolate chunks, crushed cookies, or even a dash of cinnamon if you’re feeling bold.
Shape, Size, and Serving Tips You’ll Love
Your microwave rice krispie cake doesn’t need to stay in the mug. Once it’s cooled slightly, you can pop it out and slice it like a mini bar. Want to make a batch? Just multiply the ingredients and press the mixture into a microwave-safe bowl or dish instead. It’s still quick and mess-free.
Sometimes I like to press mine into a ramekin and top it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of melted chocolate—kind of like I do with my eggless chocolate mug cake. These little presentation tricks make it feel special, even if it took under five minutes.
FAQs About Microwave Rice Krispie Cake
Can you make rice krispie squares in the microwave?
Yes, absolutely! Making rice krispie squares in the microwave is one of the easiest no-bake dessert options. Just melt butter and marshmallows together, stir in the cereal, and press it into a pan or mug. Let it cool slightly, and it’s ready to eat. It’s just as effective as the stovetop version and way faster. If you enjoy easy recipes like this, you’ll probably love the simplicity of a protein cheesecake no-bake as well.
Why do bodybuilders eat Rice Krispies?
Rice Krispies are popular among bodybuilders because they offer fast-digesting carbs that help replenish glycogen after a workout. They’re low in fat and fiber, which means they give a quick energy boost without slowing digestion. Of course, our microwave rice krispie cake leans toward dessert, not performance fuel—but it’s good to know the cereal has range! Looking for a protein-forward option instead? Try this high protein mug cake.
How do you make rice crispy cakes?
Rice crispy cakes are made by melting marshmallows and butter together and mixing in crispy rice cereal. After stirring, the mixture is shaped into cakes or bars and allowed to cool and set. Our microwave rice krispie cake follows this exact method but cuts the cook time down to under two minutes—perfect for when you want a treat without the wait.
Why are my rice crispy cakes soggy?
Soggy rice crispy cakes usually happen when you overheat the butter and marshmallows or add too much liquid. In the microwave version, always heat in short bursts—30 to 45 seconds is plenty—and stir well between each. Also, avoid extra add-ins that release moisture. If you follow the right ratios, your microwave rice krispie cake will stay perfectly crisp and chewy.
Conclusion: A Microwave Dessert That Always Delivers
The beauty of microwave rice krispie cake is its simplicity. With just three ingredients and a microwave, you can have a sweet, nostalgic treat in minutes. It’s ideal for late-night cravings, quick after-school snacks, or anytime you need comfort without the hassle. Whether you stick with the classic or get adventurous with flavors, this easy recipe earns its spot as a go-to favorite.
For more quick dessert ideas and microwave magic, follow along on Facebook where I post sneak peeks and updates, or check out our growing collection of ideas on Pinterest—you’ll find plenty of microwave inspiration there too.