Looking for a colorful, whimsical treat to celebrate Dr. Seuss Day or a kid’s birthday? These One Fish, Two Fish Rice Krispie Treats are a playful and easy-to-make dessert that brings the pages of the beloved book to life. With bright, vibrant colors, soft marshmallow goodness, and gummy fish swimming throughout, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, they’re perfect for themed parties, classroom treats, or just a fun kitchen activity to do with the family!
Let’s get creative and whip up these cheerful, fish-filled treats!
What You’ll Need
For the Rice Krispie Treats:
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 10 oz mini marshmallows (1 bag)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Food coloring in red, blue, yellow, and green
For Decoration:
- 1 cup gummy fish (like Swedish Fish or gummy ocean creatures)
- Edible glitter or sprinkles (optional, for extra fun)
Pro Tips
- Grease Everything: Lightly grease your mixing bowl, spatula, and hands with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking while shaping the treats.
- Work Quickly: The marshmallow mixture sets fast, so mix in your cereal and food coloring quickly to ensure even coloring.
- Color Divisions: If creating multiple colors, divide your marshmallow mixture into separate bowls and work on one color at a time.
- Gummy Fish Fun: Press the gummy fish gently into the top of the Rice Krispie treats while they’re still slightly warm for easy sticking.
- Layered Look: For a wow factor, create a layered effect by stacking different colored treats on top of one another.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot or microwave-safe bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- 9×13-inch baking pan (or multiple smaller pans if dividing colors)
- Nonstick spray or butter (for greasing)
- Mixing bowls (if dividing colors)
Substitutions and Variations
- Marshmallow Alternative: Use marshmallow fluff instead of mini marshmallows for easier mixing.
- Allergy-Friendly: Use gluten-free Rice Krispies and vegan marshmallows to make this recipe allergen-friendly.
- Extra Fun: Add sprinkles or crushed candy to the cereal mixture for extra texture and color.
- Ocean Vibes: Mix in blue food coloring only and add gummy sharks, sea turtles, or other ocean-themed gummies for an under-the-sea theme.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prep in Advance: These treats can be made 2–3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Gummies on the Side: For maximum freshness, store gummy fish separately and add them just before serving.
How to Make One Fish, Two Fish Rice Krispie Treats
1. Melt the Butter and Marshmallows
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, if using.
2. Divide and Color the Mixture
If using multiple colors, divide the marshmallow mixture evenly into separate bowls. Add a few drops of food coloring to each bowl (red, blue, yellow, and green) and stir until evenly colored.
3. Mix in the Cereal
Working quickly, add 1 ½ cups of Rice Krispies cereal to each bowl and stir until the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
4. Press into the Pan
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray or butter. Press each color of the Rice Krispie mixture into sections of the pan or layer them for a stacked effect. Smooth the top with a greased spatula or your hands.
5. Add the Gummy Fish
While the Rice Krispie treats are still slightly warm, press gummy fish into the top of the treats, spacing them out evenly. Add edible glitter or sprinkles for extra flair, if desired.
6. Cool and Slice
Let the Rice Krispie treats cool completely in the pan, about 30 minutes. Once set, cut them into rectangles or squares and serve!
Leftovers and Storage
- Room Temperature: Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual squares wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
These One Fish, Two Fish Rice Krispie Treats are the perfect blend of fun, color, and sweet marshmallow goodness. Whether you’re making them for a Dr. Seuss celebration, a themed birthday party, or just for a fun family treat, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. The gummy fish and bright colors add a playful touch that will bring smiles to faces of all ages. Let me know how your treats turned out—did you go with traditional colors or get creative? Share your photos and feedback in the comments below. Happy snacking!
