Description

Glow in the Dark Rice Krispies Treats transform a beloved crispy snack into a fun and spooky glowing dessert perfect for Halloween parties, science demonstrations, or any themed event where blacklight brings the magic. Using tonic water with quinine and optional neon food coloring, these treats glow vividly under UV light, creating an otherworldly experience that’s delightful for kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
4 cups mini marshmallows
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup tonic water (must contain quinine for the glow effect)
Neon food coloring (optional, but highly recommended for maximum visual impact)

Instructions

Prepare Your Pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray. For shaped treats like stars or pumpkins, use silicone molds. Set aside for later use.
Melt the Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add mini marshmallows and stir continuously with a spatula until the mixture is smooth and completely melted to avoid burning.
The Magic Step – Add Tonic Water: Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in 1/4 cup tonic water vigorously. The mixture may become frothy, indicating the infusion of quinine that enables the glow effect.
Add Food Coloring (Optional): For an eye-catching look, divide the marshmallow mixture into separate bowls and add neon food coloring drops in desired shades. Stir until colors are evenly mixed.
Combine with Rice Krispies: Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the marshmallow mixture(s). Stir gently but thoroughly to coat every piece. Repeat with other colored mixtures if applicable.
Transfer and Press: Spoon the coated cereal mixture into the prepared pan or silicone molds. Use greased parchment paper or a buttered spatula to press firmly and evenly so the bars set well.
Let Them Set: Allow the treats to cool and firm up at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours. Once set, cut into squares or remove from molds. Turn off the lights and shine a blacklight to watch the treats glow brilliantly.

Notes

The glow effect only appears under a blacklight (UV light); treats will not glow in regular darkness.
Ensure the tonic water contains quinine; otherwise, the glow effect will not work.
Grease utensils and molds to prevent the sticky mixture from adhering.
Keep heat low when melting marshmallows to avoid burning or hardening.
Mix and press the cereal quickly as the marshmallow mixture sets fast.
Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 48 hours for best freshness.
Freezing is not recommended as it damages texture and glow.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Glow in the dark treats, Rice Krispies, glowing dessert, Halloween treats, tonic water, quinine, neon food coloring, blacklight dessert, glowing snacks