Thanksgiving Rice Krispie Treats – Turkey Legs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These treats take a classic childhood favorite and give it a Thanksgiving twist. The cocoa rice krispie mixture creates the “meat” of the drumstick, while pretzels act as the bone and marshmallows mimic the fluffy end. They’re no-bake, kid-friendly, and perfect for parties or holiday gatherings where you want something whimsical and memorable.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

5 cups rice krispies cereal
10 oz marshmallows (1 bag)
2 tablespoons cocoa powder (such as Ghirardelli’s)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
6 pretzel rods
8 mini marshmallows
6 oz white candy melts

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
3. Stir in cocoa powder until fully incorporated.
4. Remove from heat and fold in rice krispies cereal until evenly coated.
5. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then shape into 6–8 oval “drumstick” forms around one end of each pretzel rod. Press firmly so the cereal mixture sticks.
6. Melt the white candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
7. Dip each mini marshmallow into the melted candy and stick two onto the exposed end of each pretzel rod to form the “bone.”
8. Let the candy coating harden before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6–8 turkey leg treats.
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cooling/setting time: 15 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Lovers: Use cocoa rice krispies cereal instead of adding cocoa powder.
• Caramel Twist: Add caramel bits to the rice krispie mixture for extra flavor.
• White “Meat” Version: Skip the cocoa powder for a vanilla-colored turkey leg.
• Candy Coating: Roll the “meat” portion in melted chocolate for a glossy finish.
• Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped peanuts or pecans with the cereal.

Storage/Reheating

Store the turkey leg treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them from sticking together, place parchment paper between layers. Freezing is not recommended, as it changes the texture of the cereal. These treats do not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought cocoa rice krispies?

Yes, they work perfectly and save a step since the chocolate flavor is already built in.

How do I keep the rice krispie mixture from sticking to my hands?

Lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray before shaping.

Can I make these treats ahead of time?

Yes, they can be made 1–2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container.

Do the marshmallow “bones” stay in place?

Yes, as long as you dip them in candy melts to act as glue, they’ll stay secure.

Can I make smaller or bite-sized versions?

Absolutely just shape smaller portions around broken pretzel sticks.

What if I don’t have candy melts?

You can use white chocolate chips instead, though they may set softer.

How do I ensure the cereal sticks to the pretzel?

Shape the mixture while warm and press firmly around the pretzel rod.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pretzel sticks and rice cereal.

Will the rice krispie treats harden too much?

If overcooked, yes. Remove the marshmallow mixture from heat as soon as it melts smoothly.

Can kids help with this recipe?

Yes! Kids can shape the “drumsticks” and help attach the marshmallow bones it’s a fun family project.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving rice krispie turkey legs are a playful and delicious dessert that combines creativity with classic flavors. Easy to make, festive, and fun for both kids and adults, these treats are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for your holiday celebration. They’re proof that desserts can be both whimsical and tasty, making them a must-have addition to the Thanksgiving dessert table.

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