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Quick No-Bake Halloween Ghost Treats

no-bake halloween ghost treats - featured image

These quick and easy no-bake ghost treats are made with crispy rice cereal and marshmallows, perfect for Halloween parties or a fun activity with kids. They come together in under 15 minutes with simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 package (10 oz) regular marshmallows (about 40 large marshmallows)
  • 6 cups crispy rice cereal (like Kellogg’s Rice Krispies)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • Candy eyes (about 24-30 pairs)
  • Optional decorations: orange and black sprinkles, edible glitter, or mini candy corn

Instructions

  1. Prepare your workspace. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease the paper with a thin layer of butter or cooking spray.
  2. Melt the butter. Place your large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the 3 tablespoons of butter and let it melt slowly. Swirl the pan occasionally.
  3. Add the marshmallows. Once the butter is fully melted, pour in the entire package of marshmallows. Stir constantly with your wooden spoon or silicone spatula. Keep the heat on medium-low. The marshmallows will start to puff up and then collapse into a smooth, gooey mixture. This takes about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add the vanilla. Once the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
  5. Combine with cereal. Pour the 6 cups of crispy rice cereal into a large heat-safe mixing bowl. Pour the hot marshmallow mixture over the cereal. Stir gently but thoroughly until all the cereal is coated.
  6. Let it cool slightly. Let the mixture sit in the bowl for about 2 minutes. It needs to be cool enough to handle but still warm and pliable.
  7. Grease your hands. Rub a little butter or cooking spray on your palms. Keep a small bowl of water nearby too—dipping your fingers in water works even better than butter for preventing stickiness.
  8. Shape the ghosts. Take about 1/4 cup of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Then, gently shape it into an oval or teardrop shape—wider at the bottom and slightly narrower at the top. Place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining mixture. You should get about 12-15 ghosts.
  9. Add the eyes. While the ghosts are still warm and slightly sticky, press two candy eyes into each one. Press gently but firmly so they stay put.
  10. Let them set. Allow the ghosts to cool completely at room temperature. This takes about 15-20 minutes.
  11. Decorate (optional). Once set, you can add extra decorations like sprinkles, edible glitter, or a drizzle of melted white chocolate.

Notes

Don’t over-stir the cereal to keep ghosts light and airy. Keep hands damp with water to prevent sticking. Add candy eyes about 30 seconds after shaping for best adhesion. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Do not refrigerate. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween, ghost treats, no-bake, rice krispie treats, marshmallow treats, quick dessert, kid-friendly