No-Bake Rice Krispie Christmas Puddings Recipe
If you’re looking to capture the warmth and whimsy of the holidays in a single bite, these No-Bake Rice Krispie Christmas Puddings are your must-make treat! They’re irresistibly chewy, with a satisfying crunch from the cereal and a snowy sweetness from the simple icing. With festive candies on top, each little pudding is like an edible ornament. Best of all, you don’t need to turn on the oven—just a few pantry staples and a bit of fun assembling are all it takes. Whether you’re making them with kids or treating yourself, these no-fuss delights are sure to spread Christmas cheer (and disappear fast!).
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these Christmas puddings lies in how just a handful of simple ingredients can create something so charming and festive! Each one brings something unique: buttery richness, gooey sweetness, and that unmistakable snap and crackle. Gather these essentials and get ready for some serious holiday fun.
- Rice Krispies cereal: This is the base of your puddings, providing the iconic crisp texture and lightness.
- Unsalted butter: The butter melts into the marshmallows for a silky, smooth mixture that binds everything together.
- Marshmallows: These are the gooey glue that gives the puddings their chewy, melt-in-your-mouth factor.
- Vanilla extract: Just a touch brings warmth and deepens the flavor, giving holiday bakery vibes.
- Powdered sugar: Mixed with milk, it transforms into a velvety icing that drips like snowy frosting over each pudding.
- Milk: This brings the powdered sugar together for a smooth, drizzle-friendly icing.
- Red and green M&Ms or small candies: They turn each pudding into a mini Christmas masterpiece—let your creativity go wild.
- Optional desiccated coconut: A sprinkle on top makes your puddings look like they’ve been dusted with fresh snow, and adds a subtle extra flavor.
How to Make No-Bake Rice Krispie Christmas Puddings
Step 1: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows
Start by setting a large pot on low heat and melting your unsalted butter. Once the butter is completely liquid and fragrant, add the marshmallows. Stir constantly as they melt down into a smooth, glossy mixture. This step is where that irresistible aroma fills the kitchen, so grab a spoon and be patient—it’s worth it!
Step 2: Add the Flavor and Cereal
Remove your pot from the heat, then quickly stir in the vanilla extract. Now, gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, making sure every bit gets a good coating of the marshmallowy mixture. Work efficiently here, since the mixture tends to set up quickly as it cools.
Step 3: Shape the Puddings
Let the mixture cool for a few minutes—just enough so it’s safe to handle, but not fully hardened. Grease your hands with a little butter or oil, then scoop out portions and roll into small balls. Each one should be about the size of a classic Christmas pudding. Set them on a parchment-lined tray and try not to eat too many along the way!
Step 4: Make and Drizzle the Icing
While your puddings are setting, whisk together powdered sugar and milk in a bowl until you have a thick, spoonable icing. Using a spoon or piping bag, drizzle a generous amount over each pudding, letting it cascade just a bit down the sides for a snow-kissed look.
Step 5: Decorate for a Festive Finish
Crown your creations with red and green candies—place them right on top of the wet icing, pressing gently so they stick. For extra holiday spirit, sprinkle a touch of desiccated coconut for that snowy, wintry effect. Let everything set at room temperature for about 30 minutes, so the icing firms up and the decorations hold tight.
How to Serve No-Bake Rice Krispie Christmas Puddings
Garnishes
These little puddings shine brightest dressed up for the holidays! Beyond candies and coconut, try adding edible glitter, silver dragees, or even tiny holly-shaped sprinkles. Each garnish transforms them into a festive centerpiece, perfect for cookie swaps or dessert platters.
Side Dishes
Pair your No-Bake Rice Krispie Christmas Puddings with hot cocoa or spiced apple cider for the ultimate holiday experience. They also go beautifully alongside a bowl of mixed berries, or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Pop a few in festive cupcake liners and arrange them in a decorative tin as a homemade edible gift. Add little gift tags tied with ribbon for place settings at your holiday table. For a party, create a “pudding tower” by stacking them on a cake stand—kids and adults alike will love choosing their favorite from the pile!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your No-Bake Rice Krispie Christmas Puddings fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay chewy and delicious for up to five days—if you can resist them that long! Just be sure to layer parchment between the levels so the icing doesn’t stick things together.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze these! Arrange them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag. To serve, simply thaw at room temperature for about an hour. Save the decorative candies for after thawing if you want them to look extra fresh and vibrant.
Reheating
No reheating needed for these no-bake treats. If you prefer them a little softer, let them sit at room temperature for a bit to take the chill off, especially if you stored or froze them.
FAQs
Can I use a different cereal instead of Rice Krispies?
Absolutely! Any crispy, puffed rice cereal will work just fine. Even cornflakes or chocolate-flavored cereal can give you a fun twist, but the texture and classic flavor of Rice Krispies is what gives these puds their iconic charm.
Are No-Bake Rice Krispie Christmas Puddings gluten-free?
Check your labels, as many Rice Krispies are processed with malt (which contains gluten). However, gluten-free crisp rice cereals are available and swap in seamlessly for a safe version everyone can enjoy.
What’s the best way to prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands?
Lightly grease your hands with a little butter or neutral oil before rolling the mixture. This simple trick makes shaping the puddings quick, easy, and mess-free!
Can I make these puddings vegan?
Yes, with a few smart swaps! Use vegan butter, vegan-friendly marshmallows, and plant-based milk for the icing. There are so many excellent brands out there nowadays that you won’t miss a thing in terms of taste or texture.
Can I prepare No-Bake Rice Krispie Christmas Puddings ahead of time?
You sure can! These actually improve after a day as the flavors mingle. Just decorate before serving to keep the toppings looking their best, and store them as described above until the big reveal.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving that extra sprinkle of holiday cheer, No-Bake Rice Krispie Christmas Puddings are pure magic—easy to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to make spirits bright. Give them a try this season and you’ll see how quickly they become a beloved tradition in your festive kitchen!
