Why Coconut Lover’s Rice Krispy Treats Are a Tropical Twist on a Classic
There’s something timeless about Rice Krispy treats—the gooey marshmallow, the crispy cereal, the sweet simplicity. But when you add coconut to the mix, you get a tropical upgrade that’s both nostalgic and fresh. Coconut Lover’s Rice Krispy Treats are chewy, crispy, and infused with creamy coconut flavor that transports you straight to island bliss.
Perfect for parties, gifting, or a little indulgent snacking, these bars are easy to make and even easier to love. Whether you toast the coconut for extra depth or drizzle with white chocolate for a luxe finish, they’re a delightful twist on a childhood favorite.
So grab your marshmallows and cereal—it’s time to turn a classic into something coconutty and unforgettable.
What Are Coconut Lover’s Rice Krispy Treats?
Coconut Lover’s Rice Krispy Treats are a tropical spin on the classic marshmallow cereal bar. They start with the familiar trio of Rice Krispies cereal, mini marshmallows, and butter, but get a flavorful boost from sweetened shredded coconut, coconut extract, and optionally, coconut milk.
Inspired by the flavors of Bounty bars, tropical desserts, and beachside snacks, these treats are chewy, gooey, and packed with coconut goodness. The coconut adds a soft texture and rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the buttery marshmallow base.
Popular variations include:
- Toasted coconut for a nutty, golden finish
- A splash of coconut milk for extra creaminess
- A drizzle of white chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt flakes
Whether you’re making them for a bake sale or a cozy night in, these bars are a sweet escape in every bite.
Ingredient Breakdown: What You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into these tropical treats:
Base Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 4 cups mini marshmallows
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
Coconut Elements
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 tsp coconut extract
- Optional: 2 tbsp canned coconut milk
Optional Add-ins
- ½ cup white chocolate chips (melted for drizzle or mixed in)
- ¼ cup chopped macadamia nuts
- Pinch of sea salt flakes
- Dash of vanilla extract
Tip: Toast the shredded coconut in a dry skillet or oven until golden for deeper flavor and a hint of crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Pan Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Melt the Butter In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter until fully liquefied.
- Add Marshmallows Stir in mini marshmallows and continue stirring until completely melted and smooth.
- Flavor Boost Add coconut extract and optional coconut milk. Stir until fully incorporated.
- Mix in Dry Ingredients Remove from heat. Fold in Rice Krispies cereal and shredded coconut. Stir until evenly coated.
- Press into Pan Transfer mixture to prepared pan. Use a buttered spatula or parchment paper to press evenly into the pan.
- Cool and Set Let cool at room temperature for 1–2 hours until firm.
- Optional Toppings Drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkle with toasted coconut or sea salt flakes.
Tip: A buttered spatula or parchment paper makes pressing the mixture smooth and mess-free.
Taste & Texture Profile
Coconut Lover’s Rice Krispy Treats are a textural dream with layers of flavor:
- The base is chewy and gooey, thanks to melted marshmallows and butter.
- The cereal adds a light, crispy crunch that balances the softness.
- Coconut brings a sweet, tropical flavor with hints of vanilla and cream.
- Optional toppings like white chocolate and toasted coconut add richness and depth.
- The overall sweetness is balanced, with a buttery finish and a satisfying bite.
Whether served chilled or at room temperature, these treats are a tropical escape in every square.

Coconut Rice Krispy Treats Recipe – Easy No-Bake Dessert for Coconut Fans
Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Buttered spatula or wax paper
- Serrated knife for slicing
Ingredients
Base
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 4 cups mini marshmallows
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
Coconut Flavor
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 tsp coconut extract
- Optional: 2 tbsp canned coconut milk
Optional Add-ins
- ½ cup white chocolate chips (melted for drizzle or mixed in)
- ¼ cup chopped macadamia nuts or almonds
- Pinch of sea salt flakes
- Dash of vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prep Pan Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease.
- Melt Butter In a large saucepan over low heat, melt butter completely.
- Add Marshmallows Stir in marshmallows and cook until melted and smooth.
- Flavor Boost Stir in coconut extract and optional coconut milk until fully incorporated.
- Mix Dry Ingredients Remove from heat. Fold in Rice Krispies cereal and shredded coconut. Stir quickly and evenly.
- Press Into Pan Transfer mixture to prepared pan. Use a buttered spatula or parchment paper to press evenly.
- Cool and Set Let cool at room temperature for 1–2 hours until firm.
- Optional Toppings Drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkle with toasted coconut or sea salt flakes.
Notes
- Toasted coconut adds deeper flavor—toast in a dry skillet until golden.
- Coconut milk enhances creaminess—replace some butter for a richer texture.
- Vegan version: Use vegan marshmallows and coconut oil instead of butter.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze in layers with parchment paper for up to 1 month.
- Avoid refrigerating—can make treats too firm.
- Wrap individually for gifting or grab-and-go snacks.


