Rice Krispie Easter Nests

Play with my food? Don’t mind if I do! These Rice Krispie Easter Nests are not only delicious, but they’re fun and will bring a squeal of delight from any child. Perfect for any Easter celebration, they’re easy to make dairy-free and/or gluten-free.

What You Will Love About These Easy No-Bake Treats

• SO CUTE! I mean … just look at them!
• Easy-peasy to make. Whip up a batch in no time. For the nests, add candy “grass” and top with your favorite egg-shaped candy.
• No bake! Only a stovetop is needed.
• Fun for kids to make with you. Either surprise the kids or let them help add the “grass” and “bird eggs.”

Recipe Ingredient Notes

• Dairy-free “butter.” I use Earth Balance vegan buttery sticks, but you can use any brand. This recipe calls for 4 Tbsp because we like our Rice Krispie Treats softer and a little gooey. Don’t have or need to accommodate dairy issues? You can use real butter.
• Marshmallows. You’ll need one 10-ounce bag of miniature marshmallows.
• Rice Cereal. I use Rice Krispies, but you can use any brand. Choose a gluten-free one to easily make this recipe g-f.
• Vanilla extract. Just 1/2 tsp adds an extra depth of flavor.
• Pinch of salt. You can leave this out if you prefer, but it’s just a pinch and adds a bit of balance to the sweetness.
• Edible green grass. I use Galerie® brand edible green apple flavor. It’s available at most grocery stores in the spring.
• Egg-shaped candy. I use Sweet Tart jelly beans (they’re dairy-free).

How to Make These Cute Easter Nests: Step-by-Step

Note: This post has a printable recipe card at the end.

PREPARATION

• Spray 1-2 12-cup muffin pans with cooking oil
• Pull out a large pot
• Gather a large mixing spoon and a small spoon or 1 Tbsp measuring spoon

STEP 1: On your stove, gently melt the butter/dairy-free butter in a large pot on low heat, then add in the marshmallows and stir until blended well.

STEP 2: Turn off the heat, add the cereal to your marshmallow mixture and stir well.

STEP 3: Using a greased 1/3 measuring cup, scoop the mixture out and into your muffin pan, dividing between 18 cups.

Step 4: Using a spoon, press the treats down in the center to create the “nests.” Let them cool in the muffin pan (about 30 minutes or more).

STEP 5: Let them cool in the muffin pan (about 30 minutes or more).

STEP 6: Cut the candy grass and arrange it in the bottom of the “nest.”

STEP 7: Add 5 or so jelly beans (or another preferred candy) on top of the grass.

STEP 8: Repeat until you have finished all of them, then plate, serve and enjoy!

FAQs, Ingredient Substitutions and Recipe Variations

What Candy Should I Use for Easter Nest Treats?

I love to use dairy-free sour jelly beans, like the Sweet Tart ones, shown here. You can use any small, egg-shaped candy that meets any dietary restrictions you need to accommodate.

Where can I find edible Easter grass and what can I use instead if I can’t find it?

I use the Galerie® brand edible green apple flavor grass. I can typically find it on Amazon or at Kroger, Walmart, Walgreens and more. If you can’t find it, look for other candy products, such as Haribo grass gummies. You can also use green food coloring to dye coconut flakes green.

Can I use large marshmallows instead of mini ones?

Yes, if you can’t find a 10 oz. bag of miniature marshmallows, substitute with 40 large ones to equal 10 ounces.

Can I freeze these Easter nests?

Yes, these freeze nicely. After they have cooled, remove each and place wax or parchment paper between layers in an airtight container or freezer bag, and freeze them for up to 8 weeks. Thaw at room temperature when ready to decorate and eat.

Other Fun and Delicious Spring Dessert Recipes You’ll Love

• Lemon Shortbread Sugar Cookies
• Strawberry Banana Nut Muffins
• Lemon Curd-Filled Lemon Cupcakes
• Dairy-Free Lemon Curd
• Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Berry Tart