Rice Krispie treats are a fun, classic snack that almost everyone loves. They’re sweet, chewy, and easy to make, which is why so many people enjoy them. Typically, the recipe calls for butter, marshmallows, and Rice Krispies cereal. The butter adds that rich, creamy taste and keeps the treats soft. But what if you don’t have butter at home? Or maybe you want to avoid butter because of dietary needs or health reasons? Fortunately, there are many good substitutes for butter that you can use in your Rice Krispie treats.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best alternatives to butter that will still give you delicious Rice Krispie treats. You don’t need to worry if you’re out of butter or just want something different – we’ve got you covered! Let’s look at some easy substitutes, why they work, and how they’ll affect the flavor and texture of your favorite snack.
13+ Butter Substitute For Rice Krispie Treats
1. Margarine
Margarine is one of the closest butter substitute for Rice Krispie treats that you could think of. It has a similar texture and fat content, so it’s an easy swap. Margarine will give you almost the same creaminess as butter, and most people won’t notice a big difference in flavor. However, margarine might be slightly less rich than butter, and if you use a light version, it could make the treats a bit softer. To replace butter, use the same amount of margarine in your recipe.
2. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is another great option, especially if you want to avoid dairy. It has a light, sweet taste that works well with marshmallows and Rice Krispies. If you like the flavor of coconut, this can be a wonderful choice, as it will add a bit of a tropical twist to your treats. Make sure to use refined coconut oil if you don’t want the coconut flavor to be too strong. Use the same amount of coconut oil as you would butter, and you’ll get treats that are still chewy and hold together well.
3. Vegetable Oil
Vegetable oil is a simple and affordable substitute that almost everyone has in their kitchen. It will give the treats the moisture they need without adding any strong flavor. However, vegetable oil is a bit more liquid than butter, so your treats may be a little bit greasier. If you’re using vegetable oil, use slightly less than the amount of butter called for in the recipe – about ¾ of the amount should work well.
4. Nut Butter or Peanut Butter
If you love nutty flavors, using a nut butter like peanut butter or almond butter can be a delicious way to substitute butter. Nut butter not only adds the fat you need but also gives your treats a rich and nutty taste that pairs perfectly with marshmallows. You can use the same amount of nut butter as you would butter. Just keep in mind that it will make the treats a bit firmer, and you’ll taste the nutty flavor throughout.
5. Sunflower Seed Butter
Sunflower seed butter is a great option for people with nut allergies. It works like peanut butter but doesn’t have any nuts, making it a safe choice for many households. This substitute will add a slight nutty taste to your treats, but it’s usually quite mild. Use the same amount of sunflower seed butter as you would butter, and enjoy a new twist on the classic Rice Krispie treat.
6. Applesauce
Applesauce is a healthier substitute that can work well if you want to reduce the fat content in your treats. It adds moisture and a bit of natural sweetness. However, using applesauce will change the texture of your Rice Krispie treats. They will be softer and less firm compared to using butter. If you’re okay with that, use about ½ cup of applesauce for every cup of butter, as it’s much more liquid.
7. Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is another healthy option that adds a creamy texture to the treats. It’s best to use plain Greek yogurt to avoid adding extra sweetness. Greek yogurt will make your Rice Krispie treats a bit tangy, which some people might enjoy. You can replace butter with an equal amount of Greek yogurt, but be prepared for a slightly different taste and a softer texture.
8. Avocado
Avocado might sound strange, but it’s a fantastic butter substitute in many recipes, including Rice Krispie treats. It provides healthy fats and keeps the treats soft and creamy. You’ll want to make sure the avocado is mashed very smoothly before adding it to the recipe. Avocado will give your treats a slight green tint and a very mild flavor, so it’s best for those who don’t mind a little change. Use an equal amount of avocado as you would butter.
9. Ghee
Ghee is clarified butter, which means the milk solids have been removed, leaving behind pure butterfat. It’s a great substitute if you want the buttery taste but need something that is lactose-free. Ghee has a richer flavor compared to regular butter, which can make your Rice Krispie treats taste even better. You can use the same amount of ghee as butter for a delicious and rich result.
10. Shortening
Vegetable shortening is another substitute that works well in Rice Krispie treats. It has a neutral taste and gives a similar texture to butter. However, shortening is 100% fat, whereas butter has some water content, so your treats might be slightly firmer. To replace butter, use an equal amount of shortening.
11. Olive Oil
Olive oil can be used in a pinch, especially if you prefer a plant-based option. It has a stronger flavor compared to other oils, which may slightly affect the taste of your treats. For the best results, use light olive oil instead of extra virgin olive oil, as it has a milder flavor. Use about ¾ of the amount of butter called for, since olive oil is more liquid.
12. Pumpkin Puree
Pumpkin puree can be a fun seasonal substitute, especially if you want to make your Rice Krispie treats in the fall. It adds moisture and a touch of natural sweetness, along with a hint of pumpkin flavor. Your treats will be softer and will have an orange tint. Use about ½ cup of pumpkin puree for every cup of butter in your recipe.
Read also, Can I Substitute Butter For Oil In Banana Bread? Your Guide to 10 Best Alternative
13. Bananas
Mashed bananas can also be used as a butter substitute, adding natural sweetness and a slight banana flavor. This is a good option if you want to reduce fat and add a bit of fruitiness to your treats. The texture will be softer and slightly sticky. Use about ½ cup of mashed banana for every cup of butter called for.
14. Yogurt Butter
Yogurt butter is a spread made from yogurt that can be used as a butter substitute. It has a creamy texture and a mild flavor, making it a good option for Rice Krispie treats. It may make your treats a bit tangier, so it’s great for those who enjoy a little twist. Replace butter with an equal amount of yogurt butter for similar results.
15. Vegan Butter
Vegan butter is a plant-based alternative that’s made to mimic the taste and texture of regular butter. It’s perfect for those who are vegan or lactose intolerant. Vegan butter works just like regular butter, giving you a rich, creamy flavor without any dairy. Use an equal amount of vegan butter to get treats that taste just as good as the original.
Conclusion
There are many substitutes for butter when making Rice Krispie treats, each bringing something a little different to the table. Whether you’re looking for a dairy-free option, a healthier choice, or just want to try something new, there’s a substitute here that will work for you. The key to picking the best substitute is knowing what you’re looking for. If you want a similar buttery taste, go for margarine, vegan butter, or butter-flavored Crisco. If you’re interested in adding a new twist to your treats, try using peanut butter, pumpkin puree, or avocado. Healthier options like Greek yogurt or applesauce work well if you want to reduce the fat content and add a different texture.