Valentines Snacks Chocolate Rice Crispy Hearts

Name: Valentines Snacks Chocolate Rice Crispy Hearts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 hearts
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons butter; 1 package (10 oz) marshmallows; 6 cups crispy rice cereal; 1 cup chocolate chips; Sprinkles (optional); Heart-shaped cookie cutter

Highlighted under: Joyful Ideas

I love celebrating Valentine’s Day with a sweet treat that’s both fun and simple to make. These Chocolate Rice Crispy Hearts not only satisfy your chocolate cravings but also bring a touch of romance to the occasion. The combination of crunchy rice cereal and velvety chocolate makes these heart-shaped snacks a delightful surprise for loved ones. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to prepare, making them a perfect addition to any Valentine’s celebration.

Created by

Marnie Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:46:34.760Z

When I first made these Chocolate Rice Crispy Hearts, I knew I had found the perfect Valentine’s Day snack. The joy on my loved one’s face as they bit into these crispy, chocolatey hearts was priceless. Not only are they delicious, but the heart shape also makes them extra special, showing you care.

I learned that the key to getting that perfect texture lies in the right balance of chocolate and marshmallows. Melting them together slowly ensures every bite is rich and gooey, while the crispy rice adds the crunch we all love. These treats are a sweet labor of love, ideal for sharing!

        Why You Will Love These Chocolate Rice Crispy Hearts
        Perfectly crispy texture paired with creamy chocolate goodness
Quick and easy recipe, great for kids and adults alike
Customizable with toppings like sprinkles or nuts for added flair

      

Mastering the Chocolate Coating

When melting the chocolate chips, it's crucial to use a microwave-safe bowl to prevent any accidents. Start with short bursts of heat, about 30 seconds at a time, stirring after each interval. This method prevents the chocolate from seizing up or burning, allowing you to achieve a silky-smooth consistency that's perfect for dipping. You'll know it's ready when it becomes glossy and flows off a spoon effortlessly.

If you encounter any lumps while melting the chocolate, simply continue heating in short intervals, stirring vigorously until the chocolate is completely smooth. For easier dipping, consider placing the melted chocolate in a deep bowl, which allows for a more thorough coating of each heart without risking a mess. This will also make it easier to fully submerge your crispy hearts.

Customizing Your Treats

These Chocolate Rice Crispy Hearts are a fantastic base for creativity. For a fun twist, try adding various toppings once you've coated them with chocolate. Think colorful sprinkles, crushed nuts, or even a drizzle of white chocolate for a contrasting flavor and artistic flair. This flexibility allows you to cater to personal preferences or themed decorations, making it a delightful activity for family or kids to join in on the fun.

You can also modify the recipe to suit different dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, ensure your crispy rice cereal is certified gluten-free. If you want a vegan variation, substitute the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips. These substitutions will not only accommodate dietary restrictions but will also introduce new flavor profiles to the classic treat.

Ingredients

Gather these delightful ingredients to make your Valentine's Day treat:

Ingredients

3 tablespoons butter
1 package (10 oz) marshmallows
6 cups crispy rice cereal
1 cup chocolate chips
Sprinkles (optional)
Heart-shaped cookie cutter

Once you have these ingredients, you’ll be ready to whip up something sweet!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your chocolate hearts:

Melt Butter and Marshmallows

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir continuously until melted and smooth.

Mix in Rice Cereal

Remove the saucepan from heat and add the crispy rice cereal. Stir until everything is evenly coated.

Shape the Mixture

Press the mixture into a greased pan, smoothing out the top. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes.

Cut into Hearts

Once cooled, use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out heart shapes from the mixture.

Melt Chocolate and Coat Hearts

Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Dip the heart shapes into the melted chocolate, coating them evenly.

Add Sprinkles and Cool

Place the chocolate-coated hearts on wax paper and add sprinkles if desired. Let them cool until the chocolate hardens.

Enjoy your delicious homemade treats!

Pro Tips

For an extra flair, consider adding chopped nuts or drizzling white chocolate over the hearts once they are coated.

Storage and Longevity

Once your Chocolate Rice Crispy Hearts have cooled and set, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They’ll maintain their delightful crunch while remaining decadent, thanks to the chocolate coating. If you want to keep them for a longer period, consider refrigerating them, but note that this might slightly alter the texture of the chocolate as it could become firmer.

For those thinking ahead, you can prepare the rice crispy mixture several days in advance and cut it into hearts just before serving. Store the shaped hearts uncoated in a container lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Once you're ready to enjoy, simply melt the chocolate and dip them for a fresh treat anytime.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your chocolate isn't adhering to the rice crispy hearts, it may be because the hearts are still warm and causing the chocolate to melt too quickly. Allow the hearts to cool completely before dipping them, as this will provide a better surface for the chocolate to adhere to. If the chocolate seems too thick when melted, adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil can help loosen it without sacrificing flavor.

Another common issue is the mixture becoming too hard to mold. If you find the mixture is setting too quickly while you’re trying to shape it, it could be because the marshmallows were heated too long. To remedy this, you can return the mixture to the stove on low heat while adding a splash of water to soften it back up for easier shaping.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of chocolate?

Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate for varying flavors.

→ How do I store the chocolate rice crispy hearts?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare these hearts a day or two in advance. Just store them properly to keep them fresh.

→ What can I substitute for rice cereal?

You can use puffed corn cereal as a gluten-free alternative or similar crispy cereals.