If you love a cookie that’s chewy, crispy, and loaded with nostalgic flavor, you’re about to fall head over heels for Rice Krispie Chocolate Chip Cookies. These treats combine the classic gooey decadence of chocolate chip cookies with the irresistible crunch of Rice Krispies cereal, creating a bite that’s equal parts comforting and delightfully surprising. Perfect for bake sales, family gatherings, or just a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies will quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is simple, but each plays a starring role in creating the perfect Rice Krispie Chocolate Chip Cookies. From the toasty, buttery base to the pops of chocolate and crisp cereal, here’s why you need every single item on this list:
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Gives the cookies richness and that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture—make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the dough and helps create a crisp edge.
- Light brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor for that classic cookie chew.
- Large eggs (2): Bind everything together and add tenderness—room temperature eggs incorporate best!
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavors and gives those irresistible bakery vibes.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups): The backbone of the cookie, providing structure without making them too dense.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Ensures your cookies rise just the right amount, so they’re light and not cakey.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Works with the baking soda for the perfect lift and softness.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and brings out all the other flavors—don’t skip it!
- Rice Krispies cereal (2 cups): The secret ingredient for that signature crunch and nostalgic twist.
- Semisweet chocolate chips (1 1/2 cups): Pockets of melty chocolate in every bite—feel free to use your favorite brand.
How to Make Rice Krispie Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to keep the cookies from sticking and to make cleanup a breeze. This step ensures your Rice Krispie Chocolate Chip Cookies bake evenly and release easily.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy—this creates the foundation for tender, chewy cookies.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Pour in the vanilla extract and mix until everything is smooth and well blended. This builds richness and depth of flavor.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that your leaveners are evenly distributed so every cookie puffs up just right.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed or by hand just until everything comes together. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your Rice Krispie Chocolate Chip Cookies tender, not tough.
Step 6: Stir in the Rice Krispies and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal and semisweet chocolate chips. The cereal adds an irresistible crunch, while the chocolate chips create those classic gooey pockets you crave. For an extra crunch, you can add another half-cup of Rice Krispies right before baking.
Step 7: Shape and Bake the Cookies
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie to allow for spreading. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are golden and the centers are just set. Let the cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps set their shape and keeps them perfectly chewy inside.
How to Serve Rice Krispie Chocolate Chip Cookies
Garnishes
For a special touch, sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie right after baking. It highlights the chocolate and adds a sophisticated flavor contrast. If you love extra chocolate, a drizzle of melted chocolate over cooled cookies is pure magic.
Side Dishes
Nothing pairs better with Rice Krispie Chocolate Chip Cookies than a tall glass of cold milk, but they’re also wonderful with hot coffee or tea. For a fun after-school snack, serve them alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dreamy, crunchy sundae.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful by stacking the cookies in a glass jar with a ribbon for a sweet homemade gift. You can also crumble them over yogurt parfaits, or use two cookies to sandwich a big scoop of ice cream for the ultimate homemade ice cream sandwich. No matter how you serve them, Rice Krispie Chocolate Chip Cookies always steal the show!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and crunchy for up to five days, and the flavors only get better as they mingle together.
Freezing
Rice Krispie Chocolate Chip Cookies are freezer-friendly! Once cooled, place them in a zip-top bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep their flavor and crunch for up to three months—just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready for a treat.
Reheating
If you crave that just-baked warmth, pop a cookie in the microwave for 8-10 seconds. You’ll bring back that gooey chocolate and slightly crispy edges, making them taste like they’re fresh from the oven.
FAQs
Can I use a different cereal instead of Rice Krispies?
While Rice Krispies are the classic choice for these cookies, you can experiment with other crispy rice cereals or even try cornflakes for a different texture. Just keep in mind that the unique snap of Rice Krispies is what gives these cookies their signature bite.
Can I add nuts or dried fruit?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even dried cranberries make delicious additions to Rice Krispie Chocolate Chip Cookies. Just be mindful if you’re making them for anyone with nut allergies, as the base recipe is nut-free.
How do I get perfectly round cookies?
For bakery-style, round cookies, use a cookie scoop to portion your dough, and gently shape rough edges with a spoon right after baking while they’re still warm. They’ll look as good as they taste!
What makes these cookies stay soft?
The combination of brown sugar and just the right amount of butter keeps Rice Krispie Chocolate Chip Cookies soft and chewy, while the cereal adds crunch. Avoid overbaking for the best texture.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes! The dough can be made in advance and chilled in the fridge for up to 48 hours. Chilling develops flavor and helps control spreading, so your cookies come out picture-perfect every time.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a cookie that’s just a little bit extra, you can’t go wrong with Rice Krispie Chocolate Chip Cookies. They’re easy, fun, and irresistibly delicious, with the perfect balance of chewiness and crunch. Give them a try—you might just find your new favorite cookie to bake and share with friends and family!
