If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’s a bit out-of-the-box, wildly fun, and dangerously addictive, these Rice Krispie Potato Chip Cookies need to be at the very top of your to-make list. Imagine a cookie that brings together gooey, sweet marshmallow goodness and crunchy, salty potato chips, with the light crisp of rice cereal in every single bite. They’re ready in just 20 minutes, require zero baking, and are as easy as it gets—perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want a treat fast but don’t want to sacrifice flavor. Trust me, this recipe is the kind of magic you’ll find yourself making (and craving) again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unbeatable Flavor Combo: Sweet, salty, rich, and crunchy—these cookies check every box!
- Super Quick & Easy: The whole process takes about 20 minutes, and you don’t even have to turn on the oven.
- Perfect for Busy Schedules: You can measure out the ingredients in advance and whip up a batch whenever the craving hits.
- Crowd-Pleaser: No one can resist the nostalgic twist on a childhood classic, with a grown-up edge from the potato chips.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these for cookie bliss—and don’t worry, nothing complicated here!
- Butter: For richness and the essential buttery undertone in every bite. Unsalted is best so you control the saltiness.
- Mini Marshmallows: The glue that binds everything together, creating those ooey-gooey strands everyone loves. Set aside some for stirring in late for extra pockets of chewy texture.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth, making everything taste just a little more homemade.
- Sea Salt: Brings out all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly. If you can, use flaky sea salt for a pop of flavor.
- Wavy Potato Chips: They’re the star of the show! Their salty snap gives these cookies irresistible character—wavy chips hold up best.
- Crispy Rice Cereal: Adds a light crunch and gives the cookies structure.
Tip: Measure everything first. This recipe moves fast and having your ingredients ready makes everything smoother!
Variations
Thinking of putting your own spin on this classic? Go for it! Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Diet-Friendly: Use vegan butter and marshmallows if you need a dairy-free option—the results are just as delicious.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt a little chocolate and zigzag it over the tops for an extra-luxe finish.
- Spicy-Sweet Surprise: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a subtle, grown-up kick that works surprisingly well with the other flavors.
- Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of chopped nuts, like pecans or peanuts, for even more texture.
- Fun-Sized Treats: Scoop the mixture into mini muffin tins to make bite-sized party treats.
How to Make Rice Krispie Potato Chip Cookies
You’ll be amazed at how quickly these come together! Here’s how to work your cookie magic:
Step 1: Prep Your Tools
Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This will keep your cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Melt the Base
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s golden and fragrant, toss in most of your marshmallows (save a couple of cups for later). Stir till the marshmallows are completely melted and luxurious—patience here really pays off!
Step 3: Flavor Boost
Take the pot off the heat and add the vanilla and sea salt. This is what transforms sticky marshmallows into a gourmet treat.
Step 4: Fold It All In
Work quickly! Add the rice cereal, potato chips, and the reserved marshmallows to the pot. Fold everything together so all the chips and cereal are glazed with marshmallow.
Don’t worry if some chips break up—it just makes each cookie more interesting!
Step 5: Shape Your Cookies
Drop heaped spoonfuls of the warm mix onto your lined baking sheets, gently forming them into mounds. No need to make them look perfect—rustic is the name of the game.
Step 6: Let Them Cool
Allow the cookies to cool and set at room temperature. That’s it—you’re ready to dive in!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use a silicone spatula. Trust me, it makes folding and scooping so much easier!
- If the mixture stiffens as you work, just pop the pot back on low heat for a minute to soften it up.
- Crushing the potato chips just a bit before mixing helps distribute them more evenly and makes the cookies easier to shape.
- Measuring everything in advance is crucial—these set up fast, so you want to be ready.
How to Serve
These cookies deliver both nostalgia and novelty, making them right at home on a big dessert platter. Here’s how to enjoy them:
- Classic Plate: Pile them high on your favorite cookie plate.
- Party Perfect: Stack them on a tiered stand alongside other no-bake treats.
- With Coffee or Milk: They’re absolutely divine with a cold glass of milk or a mug of strong coffee.
- Crumbled on Ice Cream: Game changer! Sprinkle broken cookies over vanilla ice cream for a killer sundae topping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days—if they last that long without getting gobbled up.
Freezing
These cookies freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container—they’ll keep for up to six weeks. Defrost at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge.
Reheating
Not strictly necessary, but if you want that fresh-made gooeyness, a few seconds in the microwave does the trick. Just don’t overheat—hot marshmallow can get super sticky!
FAQs
Can I use regular (non-wavy) potato chips instead of wavy ones?
Wavy chips are best because they hold up better and give more crunch, but regular chips work in a pinch! Just be extra gentle when folding them into the mix—they’re more delicate but still deliver that addictive salty bite.
Are there any substitutions for marshmallows if I want a healthier version?
Unfortunately, marshmallows are pretty central to this recipe’s texture and charm. However, you can use vegan marshmallows if you’re looking to avoid animal products. For a lower-sugar option, you could try cutting down the amount just a little and adding a sticky sweetener like honey or agave, though the texture will change.
Can I prepare these cookies ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! They’re even better for it. Just make them up to a day in advance and store them tightly covered at room temperature. They’ll be perfectly chewy and fresh when your guests arrive.
How do I keep the cookies from sticking to my hands or spoon when shaping?
Lightly grease your hands or spoon with a touch of butter or oil, or use a silicone spatula to make portioning easy and tidy. This way the marshmallow doesn’t cling to you instead of the cookies!
Final Thoughts
There’s so much to love about these Rice Krispie Potato Chip Cookies—bold, playful flavor, easy preparation, and a texture that keeps you coming back for just one more (and then another). Whether you need a quick dessert for a last-minute gathering or just want something fun for family night, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Don’t hesitate—grab your ingredients and treat yourself to a new classic!
PrintRice Krispie Potato Chip Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
- Category: Snacks
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Rice Krispie Potato Chip Cookies are a fun and crispy no-bake treat combining the gooey sweetness of marshmallows, the crunch of rice cereal, and the salty goodness of wavy potato chips, all formed into delightful, easy-to-make mounds. Perfect for snack time or parties, they come together in just 20 minutes with minimal cleanup required.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 cups mini marshmallows, divided (6 cups + 2 cups)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 5 cups wavy potato chips
- 2 cups crispy rice cereal
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Sheets: Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside so your cookies won’t stick as they cool.
- Measure Ingredients: Measure out all your ingredients before starting, as you will need to work quickly once you begin mixing.
- Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add 6 cups of mini marshmallows to the melted butter, stirring continuously until they’re fully melted. Keep the heat steady at medium/low to avoid burning the marshmallows.
- Add Vanilla and Salt: Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt, mixing well to distribute the flavors.
- Fold in Remaining Ingredients: While the mixture is still hot, quickly fold in the rice cereal, potato chips, and the remaining 2 cups of marshmallows. Stir until everything is well combined and coated. It’s okay if the potato chips get crushed for a more bite-sized texture.
- Shape the Cookies: Using a spoon, scoop about 3 tablespoons of the warm mixture and place in mounds onto the prepared baking sheets. Repeat until all the mixture is used. Shape them gently into mounds for even cookies.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool and harden at room temperature before serving. This helps them set and hold their shape.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- If desired, briefly microwave to soften but avoid overheating.
- Freeze by placing cookies on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to bags or containers; they’ll keep up to 6 weeks.
- Make ahead up to a day in advance and keep covered; they remain delicious and fresh.
- Substitute with vegan marshmallows and butter for dairy-free versions.
- For flavor variations, add a pinch of cayenne to the marshmallow mix or drizzle melted chocolate on top once set.
- Use a silicone spatula for easy mixing and less mess.
- If the mix gets too firm to scoop, gently reheat over low heat to soften.
- Lightly crush potato chips before adding for better mixing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *