Ombré Ube Rice Krispies Treats Recipe
Introduction
These Ombré Ube Rice Krispies Treats take a classic childhood favorite to the next level with a beautiful gradient of purple hues and the unique flavor of ube. Perfect for a fun snack or a colorful dessert, they combine crispy texture with creamy sweetness.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 10 oz marshmallows
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- ~1 teaspoon ube extract
- 1 cup ube halaya
Instructions
- Step 1: Evenly split the butter, marshmallows, and Rice Krispies into three batches. Prepare an 8.25″ W x 5″ D baking dish by spreading a thin layer of butter over the bottom.
- Step 2: For the first batch, melt the butter in a pot over low heat. Add one batch of marshmallows and stir until fully melted. Add 3–4 drops of ube extract and mix until the mixture turns pastel purple. Stir in 2 cups of Rice Krispies until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a flat layer.
- Step 3: Repeat the melting and mixing process for the second and third batches, increasing the ube extract to about 6 drops for the second batch and 10 drops for the third batch. Press each layer firmly on top of the previous to create the ombré effect.
- Step 4: Allow the layered Rice Krispies treats to cool and set completely. Once set, spread the ube halaya evenly over the top layer. Cut into 8 pieces and serve.
Tips & Variations
- For a stronger ube flavor, adjust the amount of ube extract or add more ube halaya on top.
- Press the layers firmly to avoid crumbling when cutting.
- Use a buttered spatula or parchment paper to press the mixture evenly without sticking.
- Try adding shredded coconut or toasted nuts between layers for extra texture.
Storage
Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat briefly in the microwave if you prefer a softer texture, but these treats are best enjoyed fresh.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular vanilla extract instead of ube extract?
You can substitute vanilla extract, but you will lose the distinctive ube flavor and purple color that make this recipe special.
What is ube halaya and where can I find it?
Ube halaya is a sweet purple yam jam commonly used in Filipino desserts. It’s typically available at Asian grocery stores or online specialty food shops.
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Ombré Ube Rice Krispies Treats Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Ombré Ube Rice Krispies Treats are a colorful twist on the classic marshmallow snack, featuring layers tinted with varying intensities of ube extract for a beautiful gradient effect. Finished with creamy ube halaya spread on top, they offer a delightful combination of chewy texture and vibrant purple hues, perfect for dessert lovers and fans of Filipino flavors.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 10 oz marshmallows
- 6 cups rice krispies cereal
Flavoring
- ~1 tsp ube extract (divided as 3-4 drops, 6 drops, and 10 drops for layering)
- 1 cup ube halaya (purple yam jam)
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Spread a thin layer of butter evenly over an 8.25″ W x 5″ D baking dish. This will prevent sticking when setting the layers of treats.
- Make the First Layer: Melt 1/6 of the butter in a pot over low heat. Add one-third of the marshmallows and stir until fully melted. Mix in 3-4 drops of ube extract to achieve a pastel purple color. Stir in 2 cups of rice krispies cereal until evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly and flatly into the prepared baking dish to form the first layer.
- Make the Second and Third Layers: Repeat the melting and mixing process for the second batch using another 1/6 of the butter and marshmallows, adding about 6 drops of ube extract for a darker purple hue. Stir in 2 cups of rice krispies and press this mixture on top of the first layer. Then repeat again for the third batch using the remaining butter and marshmallows with 10 drops of ube extract for the darkest purple layer; add the last 2 cups of rice krispies and press firmly on top of the second layer.
- Cool and Set: Allow the layered rice krispies treats to fully cool and set in the dish, ensuring the layers hold their shape.
- Finish with Ube Halaya: Once cooled, spread 1 cup of ube halaya evenly over the top layer. Cut the assembled treats into 8 pieces for serving.
Notes
- Use low heat when melting marshmallows to avoid burning or scorching.
- Press each layer firmly to prevent crumbling and create sharp separation between layers.
- Adjust drops of ube extract to get preferred shade of purple for each layer.
- Ube halaya adds authentic flavor and creamy texture—substitutes will change the taste profile.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Filipino
Keywords: Ube Rice Krispies Treats, Ube Dessert, Filipino Treat, Marshmallow Snacks, Ombré Treats, Rice Krispies, Ube Halaya
