Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Glow in the Dark Rice Krispies Treats Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 71 reviews
  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (includes setting time)
  • Yield: Approximately 12 large bars 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Glow in the Dark Rice Krispies Treats are a fun and spooky twist on the classic dessert, infused with tonic water containing quinine to emit a bright glow under blacklight. Perfect for Halloween parties, science demonstrations, or any event needing a luminous treat, these bars combine crispy cereal, melted marshmallows, and optional neon food coloring to create an otherworldly glowing effect that’s sure to wow guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
  • 4 cups mini marshmallows
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

Glow Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup tonic water (must contain quinine for the glow effect)
  • Neon food coloring (optional, for maximum glow visual impact)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray, or prepare silicone molds if you want specific shapes like stars or pumpkins. Set aside.
  2. Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add mini marshmallows and stir continuously until smooth and fully melted.
  3. Add Tonic Water: Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly pour in 1/4 cup tonic water. Stir vigorously; the mixture may become frothy. This infuses quinine for the glowing effect.
  4. Add Food Coloring (Optional): Divide mixture into bowls as desired and add drops of neon food coloring. Stir each until color is evenly mixed.
  5. Combine with Rice Krispies: Add Rice Krispies cereal into each colored mixture bowl and stir gently but thoroughly to coat every piece.
  6. Transfer and Press: Spoon the coated cereal mixture into the prepared pan or molds. Using greased parchment paper or a buttered spatula, press mixture evenly and firmly to set.
  7. Let Them Set: Allow the treats to cool and set at room temperature for 1–2 hours. Once firm, cut into squares or unmold. Activate a blacklight and watch them glow vibrantly.

Notes

  • The glow effect only works under a blacklight due to the quinine in tonic water.
  • Ensure tonic water contains quinine; not all sparkling waters do.
  • Use butter or spray liberally to avoid sticking when pressing and handling the mixture.
  • Do not overheat marshmallows as it can cause burning or a hardened texture.
  • Neon food coloring enhances visual impact but is optional.
  • For adult versions, tonic water can be swapped for citrus sparkling water and a drop of extract — which won’t glow but adds flavor.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: glow in the dark, Rice Krispies treats, Halloween dessert, tonic water dessert, glowing treats, neon snacks, spooky treats

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://bitesbyolivia.com/glow-in-the-dark-rice-krispies-treats-recipe/