Lemon Cheesecake Rice Krispie Treats
Sometimes, finding treats the whole family loves can be tricky. But Lemon Cheesecake Rice Krispie Treats are kid-approved! The light zesty flavor and creamy texture make them irresistible. With simple ingredients, they’re easy to whip up together. Perfect for family movie nights or a quick dessert after dinner!
If you’re always on the lookout for tasty Rice Krispie Treats Recipes, this one should be saved! The bright citrus flavor feels like sunshine in every bite. Kids can help measure marshmallows while you handle melting.
Plus, the creamy cheesecake layer adds a fun twist everyone loves. With simple steps and familiar ingredients, it’s perfect for busy moms. Treats like this make family time extra special, whether it’s after school or a weekend bake-off.
Recipes like this are a lifesaver for busy families. They’re quick to make and fit any occasion—be it a celebration, a classroom treat, or a potluck. With just a few simple ingredients, there’s no need to stress about elaborate desserts. These treats are easy enough for kids to help with, turning baking into family time. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something sweet, they’ll bring smiles without the hassle. They’re truly a go-to for moms wanting to bake without the fuss!
Lemon Recipes You Will Love
If you’re as big of a citrus fan as we are, you’ll adore these other citrusy delights! A classic Lemon Bar Recipe is always a hit, with its buttery crust and tangy filling. For a heartier treat, Lemon Blueberry Bread brings a cozy, fruity twist perfect for breakfasts or snacks.
Sweet Rolls with Lemon Glaze take your brunch game to the next level—soft, fluffy, and drizzled with bright sweetness. And don’t forget the Lemon Blueberry Breakfast Cake, which is basically happiness baked into a pan. All these pair beautifully with Lemon Cheesecake Rice Krispie Treats, creating the ultimate lemon lover’s dream spread!
I think you will also love our huge collection of recipes using lemon. If you are a citrus person this list is perfect for you!
Ingredients Needed To Make Lemon Cheesecake Rice Krispie Treats
The ingredients for Lemon Cheesecake Rice Krispie Treats come together perfectly to create a treat that’s both sweet and refreshing. Here is what you will need:
- Rice Krispies Cereal: Forms the crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers.
- Butter: Adds a rich flavor and helps bind the cereal and marshmallow mixture.
- Mini Marshmallows: The key to the gooey texture and sweet taste that holds everything together.
- Cream Cheese: Provides that creamy, tangy base for the cheesecake flavor.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Sweetens the recipe while adding richness to the cheesecake layer.
- Lemon Juice: Offers a bright, citrusy tang that balances the sweetness.
- Vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor, adding warmth and depth.
- Yellow Food Dye: Makes the treats visually appealing, giving them a cheerful, lemon-inspired look.
- White Chocolate: Adds a smooth, sweet layer that complements the citrus and cheesecake flavors.
- Lemon Zest for Garnishing: Freshens up the flavor and provides a decorative, eye-catching touch.
The crispy cereal forms the crunchy base, giving texture to every bite. Butter and mini marshmallows create the gooey, chewy foundation that everyone loves. Cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk bring a rich, creamy tanginess that balances the sweetness.
Fresh citrus juice adds that pop of citrus, while vanilla enhances the overall flavor. Yellow food dye makes them as fun to look at as they are to eat, while white chocolate adds a sweet, smooth finish. Finally, lemon zest on top ties everything together, adding a bright, fresh flavor and a little flair.
While you’re here, check out our lemon and blueberry recipes and our lemon blueberry poke cake. You can’t go wrong with any of these!
Best Tips for Making Lemon Cheesecake Rice Krispie Treats
Making this dessert can be such a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you know a few tricks to get them just right. These tips will make the process easier and stress-free. From handling sticky marshmallows to perfecting that creamy lemon cheesecake layer, you’ll feel like a pro in no time. Plus, with a little prep and some insider advice, you’ll have treats that look amazing, taste incredible, and bring smiles every single time!
- Prep Your Pan First
Line your baking dish with parchment paper or non-stick spray. It makes removing the treats so much easier and less messy! - Melt Marshmallows on Low Heat
Patience is key! Use low heat to melt butter and marshmallows. This prevents them from burning and keeps the mixture smooth and gooey. - Work Quickly with the Cereal Mixture
Once the marshmallow and butter mix is ready, stir in the Rice Krispies quickly. The mixture hardens fast, so move swiftly to transfer it into the pan. - Use Room-Temperature Cream Cheese
Softened cream cheese blends more easily with the condensed milk and lemon juice, giving you that creamy, tangy layer without lumps. - Don’t Skip the Lemon Zest and Juice
Real lemon juice and zest bring a fresh citrus punch. If you can, use freshly squeezed juice for the best flavor. - Add Food Dye Gradually
A little goes a long way! Add yellow food dye one drop at a time to achieve the perfect sunny shade without overdoing it. - Chill for Easier Cutting
Once assembled, refrigerate the treats for at least an hour before slicing. This helps the layers hold together, giving you clean, even pieces. - Grease Your Hands or Spatula
When pressing the cereal layer down into the pan, lightly grease your hands or spatula to prevent sticking. It makes spreading so much easier! - Use High-Quality White Chocolate
For the topping, choose good-quality white chocolate. It melts smoother and tastes richer, enhancing the overall flavor. - Store Properly
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, especially during warmer months, to maintain the texture and freshness.
These hacks will ensure your treats come out perfect every time! There is nothing worse than dedicating time to creating something yummy, only for it to not turn out the way you planned. This recipe will not disappoint!!
How to Store Leftover Lemon Cheesecake Rice Krispie Treats
Storing leftover Lemon Cheesecake Rice Krispie Treats the right way ensures they stay fresh and delicious for days. For short-term storage, place the treats in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. This keeps the cheesecake layer from softening too much and helps maintain the overall texture. Be sure to separate the layers with parchment paper if you’re stacking them to avoid sticking.
For longer-term storage, you can freeze them! Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight. Avoid leaving them at room temperature for extended periods, especially in warmer months, as the cheesecake layer may lose its firmness. With these simple steps, you’ll keep your treats as fresh, sweet, and zesty as the day you made them!
Fun Variations for Lemon Cheesecake Rice Krispie Treats
Don’t want to make the lemon version? Want something else? Honestly, the variations are endless! Let me know if you try any of these!
- Berry Bliss
Add a layer of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries between the cheesecake and Rice Krispie layers for a fruity burst. You can even drizzle some berry sauce on top for extra flair! - Tropical Twist
Swap out the zesty juice for lime or pineapple juice, and include shredded coconut in the cheesecake layer. This will give your treats a bright and tropical flavor. - Chocolate Dream
Fold mini chocolate chips into the Rice Krispie mixture or drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top. The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the zesty lemon. - Vanilla and Almond Delicacy
Replace the vanilla extract with almond extract, or use a mix of both for a nutty, sweet twist that complements the tart lemon. - Pink Lemonade Treats
Use pink food coloring instead of yellow for a fun, summery vibe, and consider adding a touch of grapefruit or cranberry juice alongside the citrus juice for a tangy variation. - Creamy Citrus Swirl
Divide the cheesecake layer into two portions, flavor one with lemon and the other with orange or lime. Swirl them together for a marbled, citrus-flavored cheesecake topping. - Nuts for Lemon
Sprinkle crushed pistachios, almonds, or pecans over the cheesecake layer before it sets to add a crunchy and nutty contrast. - Glazed Lemonade Bars
Form the treats into individual bars instead of cutting them into traditional squares. Drizzle them with a citrus glaze for a more elegant presentation. - Cheesecake Tacos
Shape the Rice Krispie mixture into a taco shell and fill it with the citrus cheesecake layer and fresh fruit. These are perfect for parties or as a fun kid-friendly dessert! - Lemon Lavender Delight
Add a touch of culinary lavender to the cheesecake layer for a sophisticated floral note. Garnish the finished treats with a sprinkle of lavender buds for a rustic, bakery-style presentation.
These variations will keep things exciting and ensure there’s a sweet treat for everyone to love!
Can You Freeze Leftover Rice Krispies?
Absolutely! You can freeze leftover Lemon Cheesecake Rice Krispie Treats to enjoy later. Just wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw them in the fridge overnight for the best texture and flavor. Easy and convenient!
Treats Using This Zesty Fruit
Before you go, don’t miss these bright and cheerful recipes that are sure to bring a little sunshine to your table. From comforting classics to delightful showstoppers, there’s something here to make any occasion feel special.
These recipes are bursting with flavor and perfect for sharing laughter and love with family and friends. Give them a try, spread the joy, and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Lemon Cheesecake Rice Krispie Treats
These citrus bars will be a hit at your house or event!
Ingredients
- 6 Cups Rice Krispies Cereal
- 3 Tablespoons Butter
- 6 Cups Mini Marshmallows (10 oz Bag)
- 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened)
- 14 oz Sweetened Condensed Milk
- 1/3 cup Lemon Juice
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla
- 1 Drop Yellow Food Dye (optional)
- 1/2 cup White Chocolate
- Lemon Zest for garnishing (optional)
Instructions
Spray a 9x13” pan with cooking spray and set aside.
In a large microwave safe bowl, melt butter in 15 second increments until melted.
Add 3/4 bag of marshmallows to butter and melt in 30 second increments until melted, stirring between each until combined.
Fold in Rice Krispies Cereal to butter and marshmallows and mix well.
Add in remaining marshmallows (they won’t melt completely).
Press mixture into the prepared pan and allow to cool.
In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, and lemon juice until smooth.
Add 1 drop of yellow food dye to the cheesecake mixture and mix well.
Pour cheesecake mixture on top of the cooled Rice Krispies and use a spatula to smooth the top.
Refrigerate treats for 3-4 hours or until cheesecake is set.
Once cheesecake is set, remove from the refrigerator and cut into squares.
Melt white chocolate in 30 second increments or in a melting pot until smooth and drizzle over bars.
Garnish with lemon zest (optional)
Notes
An easy way to drizzle the white chocolate over the bars is to put the white chocolate mixture into a zippered sandwich bag and slightly cut off one of the corners to drizzle.