Glow in the Dark Rice Krispies Treats Recipe
Introduction
Glow in the Dark Rice Krispies Treats are a fun and visually stunning twist on a classic favorite. Infused with tonic water and neon food coloring, these treats come alive under blacklight, making them perfect for parties and special occasions.

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
- Step 1: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray. Alternatively, prepare silicone molds if you want to create fun shapes. Set aside.
- Step 2: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add mini marshmallows and stir continuously until smooth and fully melted.
- Step 3: Remove the pan from heat. Quickly pour in 1/4 cup tonic water and stir vigorously until the mixture becomes slightly frothy.
- Step 4: For vibrant colors, divide the marshmallow mixture into separate bowls and stir in drops of neon food coloring until evenly blended.
- Step 5: Add Rice Krispies cereal to each colored mixture and gently stir until all the cereal is coated.
- Step 6: Spoon the coated cereal mixture into the prepared pan or molds. Press evenly and firmly using greased parchment paper or a buttered spatula.
- Step 7: Let the treats cool at room temperature for 1–2 hours until firm. Cut into squares or remove from molds, then enjoy the glowing effect under a blacklight.
Tips & Variations
- Use different neon food coloring shades to create a colorful glow effect and serve each color separately for a playful presentation.
Storage
Store these treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid refrigeration as it can make them hard. Reheat gently in a microwave for a few seconds if they become too firm.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Why is tonic water used in this recipe?
Tonic water contains quinine, a compound that fluoresces under blacklight, giving the treats their glowing effect.
Can I use regular water instead of tonic water?
Regular water will not produce the glow because it lacks quinine. For the glowing effect, tonic water is essential.
PrintGlow in the Dark Rice Krispies Treats Recipe
Glow in the Dark Rice Krispies Treats are a fun and visually stunning twist on the classic childhood snack. Infused with tonic water containing quinine and enhanced with neon food coloring, these treats glow brilliantly under blacklight, making them perfect for parties, Halloween, or any occasion that calls for a playful, glowing dessert.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 4 cups mini marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
Special Ingredients for Glow
- 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. Alternatively, use silicone molds if you prefer shaped treats like stars or pumpkins. Set the pan or molds aside while preparing the marshmallow mixture.
- Melt the Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the mini marshmallows, stirring continuously until smooth and fully melted.
- The Magic Step – Add Tonic Water: Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in 1/4 cup tonic water. Stir vigorously; the mixture may become slightly frothy. This step infuses quinine, which creates the glowing effect under blacklight.
- Add Food Coloring (Optional): For vibrant glowing colors, divide the marshmallow mixture into different bowls and mix in drops of neon food coloring. Colors like electric green, bright orange, and intense blue create a spectacular glow.
- Combine with Rice Krispies: Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the marshmallow mixture and stir gently but thoroughly until every piece of cereal is evenly coated. Repeat for each colored bowl if using multiple colors.
- Transfer and Press: Spoon the coated cereal mixture into your prepared pan or molds. Use greased parchment paper or a buttered spatula to press the mixture firmly and evenly to ensure proper setting.
- Let Them Set: Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for 1–2 hours until firm. Once set, cut into squares or remove from molds. Turn off the lights, switch on a blacklight, and enjoy the glowing effect.
Notes
- Tonic water must contain quinine to achieve the glowing effect; regular water will not work.
- Neon food coloring is optional but highly recommended for enhancing the glow intensity.
- Use silicone molds for fun shapes, especially suitable for themed parties like Halloween.
- Pressing the mixture firmly into the pan or molds ensures the treats hold together well once set.
- Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for best texture and glow.
Keywords: Rice Krispies Treats, Glow in the Dark, Tonic Water, Quinine, Neon Food Coloring, Halloween Treats, Party Snacks

