Adding protein to my favorite desserts is nothing new for me. I have a protein dunkaroo dip recipe, protein chocolate chip cookies, and edible protein cookie dough (among many more!). So when I set out to make another protein dessert recipe, I wanted something classic, quick, easy, and ideally no-bake – especially in this summer heat! Rice crispy treats exactly fit the bill. What I love most about this protein rice crispy treat recipe is it’s made with just 4 very simple ingredients. Marshmallows, butter, protein powder, and rice cereal come together to make a protein-packed treat with over 10 grams of protein per serving that are just as delicious as classic rice crispy treats!
Why You’ll Love These Protein Rice Crispy Treats
- High protein, fun treat: Each square delivers around 10g of protein, making them satisfying and energizing!
- No-bake: Ready in about 10 minutes with minimal cleanup.
- Kid-approved: Still soft, chewy, and kid-friendly – just with a protein boost!
- Gluten-free and easily made vegan: These protein treats are made with gluten-free ingredients and can be made dairy-free and/or vegan (see the “adjust this recipe to your dietary needs” section below).
What Kind of Protein Powder Can I Use?
Use your favorite – vanilla or chocolate whey or plant-based work great. Just be aware that vegan powders might need adjustment: adding extra melted butter can help keep the texture just right!
Storage Instructions
Store squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days – though they’re best enjoyed sooner for that perfect chewy texture. Want a more solid treat? Chill them briefly for firmer bars.
Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs
Make it Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter in place of regular butter to make this a non-dairy protein treat!
Make it Vegan: Use vegan marshmallows and vegan protein powder – I like this plant-based protein powder from Aloha.
4-Ingredient Protein Rice Crispy Treats
Equipment
- 1 medium pot
Ingredients
- 6 cups rice cereal
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 1 (12 ounce) bag marshmallows
- 1 cup protein powder either vanilla or unflavored
Instructions
- Line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper or lightly grease the inside of the pan with butter.
- Melt the butter and marshmallows together in a medium pot over medium-low heat. Stir often until the mixture is smooth and marshmallows are completely melted.
- Remove the pot from the heat, then add in the protein powder and mix together until fully combined.
- Add in the rice cereal and quickly mix them into the melted marshmallow mixture.
- Transfer the rice crispy treat mixture to your prepared baking dish, press it into an even layer, then let it sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours.
- Remove the rice crispy treats from the pan and slice into squares then enjoy!
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