Tombstone Rice Krispies Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun, spooky treat to whip up for Halloween or any time you want to impress with a twist on a classic, you’ve got to try this Tombstone Rice Krispies Recipe. I absolutely love how it combines the nostalgic crunch of Rice Krispies with rich Nutella and cocoa, all shaped into adorable (and slightly eerie) tombstones that stand up perfectly for a festive vibe. Stick around because this recipe is as easy as it is show-stopping, and I’m sharing all my best tips so you can nail it on your first try!

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic in this Tombstone Rice Krispies Recipe really comes down to quality ingredients that work harmoniously: creamy Nutella adds richness, while butter and mini marshmallows provide the perfect gooey texture. Plus, cocoa Rice Krispies give that rich chocolaty crunch you won’t stop munching on.

• Mini marshmallows: Using minis helps everything melt evenly and creates that classic chewy texture you want.
• Butter: It adds richness and helps the marshmallows melt smoothly without burning.
• Nutella: This adds a luscious hazelnut-chocolate flavor—feel free to substitute with any chocolate-hazelnut spread you love.
• Cocoa Rice Krispies: This twists the original Rice Krispies flavor into something chocolaty and perfect for a Halloween vibe.
• Melted white chocolate or white frosting: For writing your RIP messages—it’s all about that contrast and fun decoration.

Variations

I like to keep the core of this Tombstone Rice Krispies Recipe pretty classic, but I’ve definitely played around with some fun tweaks depending on the mood or occasion. Feel free to make it your own!

• Add Peppermint: My family goes crazy for a little peppermint extract stirred in during colder months—it adds a festive kick.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut oil instead of butter and a dairy-free chocolate spread instead of Nutella to make it vegan-friendly.
• Colorful Decorations: Swap white chocolate for colored melts or candy melts to personalize tombstones for different themes.
• Crunch Boost: Toss in some chopped toasted nuts or pretzels for extra texture that surprised me in a good way!

How to Make Tombstone Rice Krispies Recipe

Step 1: Melt Marshmallows and Butter Smoothly

Start by putting your mini marshmallows and butter in a large microwave-proof bowl. Pop it in the microwave for 1 minute, then give it a good stir. You’ll notice it begins to melt nicely but might need a little more time. Continue microwaving in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until everything is melted smooth and beautifully glossy. This method helps prevent burning, which I once learned the hard way by rushing it!

Step 2: Stir in Nutella for That Irresistible Flavor

Next, add your Nutella to the melted marshmallow and butter mixture. Stir it in thoroughly while it’s still warm—that way it melts nicely and blends into a silky, chocolate-hazelnut swirl. Watching this step is my favorite because the aroma already sets the Halloween vibe in the air!

Step 3: Add Cocoa Rice Krispies and Mix Thoroughly

Now for the crunch—pour in your cocoa Rice Krispies and fold them gently but thoroughly into the chocolatey marshmallow mixture. You’ll want them evenly coated but be careful not to mash the cereal. I like to use a sturdy spoon or spatula for this part to make sure every bite is perfectly crispy and chocolate-coated.

Step 4: Shape Your Tombstones with Care

This is where the fun begins! Grab small handfuls of the mixture and start forming tombstone shapes. They can be all the same size or varied — I usually do a mix! Here’s a tip: butter or slightly grease your fingers beforehand; otherwise, things get super sticky fast. I use parchment paper underneath to keep them from sticking to the surface. Make sure the bottom of your tombstone is flat — this helps them stand upright after they cool, which is great for presentation.

Step 5: Let Cool, Then Decorate with White Chocolate or Frosting

Once they’re shaped, give your tombstones some time to cool and set—about 20-30 minutes should do it. Then, it’s time to get creative! Melt your white chocolate or prepare white frosting to write your “RIP” messages. I discovered the easiest way to pipe is to create a mini piping bag from a small ziplock bag—you just snip a tiny corner and voilà, control and precision! It’s such a fun finishing touch that really makes these treats stand out.

How to Serve Tombstone Rice Krispies Recipe

Garnishes

I like to keep the garnishes simple—white chocolate or white frosting messages are all you really need to make them look festive and spooky. But for extra flare, a light dusting of edible glitter or popping candy on top can add fun texture and sparkle that kids absolutely love.

Side Dishes

These tombstone treats pair beautifully with a big bowl of mulled apple cider or a creamy hot chocolate—both balance the crunch and sweetness perfectly. If it’s a party, I also like to set up a candy apple station nearby to keep the autumn vibes strong.

Creative Ways to Present

For Halloween parties, I arranged the tombstones upright in a “graveyard” scene on a black tray with some edible dirt (crushed Oreos) and gummy worms peeking out—it was a hit! You could also use small flowerpots lined with parchment to place your tombstones like little garden graves. Totally fun and super Instagrammable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Tombstone Rice Krispies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and chewy for about 2-3 days. If they start to feel a bit too firm, letting them sit out for a bit softens them up perfectly.

Freezing

I’ve had great luck freezing these treats individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes and they come back tender and delicious.

Reheating

I usually don’t reheat these treats since they’re best enjoyed fresh or room temperature, but if you want to warm them slightly, a 5-10 second zap in the microwave helps soften them without melting the chocolate decoration.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

When I first tried this Tombstone Rice Krispies Recipe, it instantly became a Halloween staple in my house — the perfect mix of nostalgic, chocolaty, and festive. I love how easy it is to make, and how the little tombstones bring a smile to everyone’s face. If you want a fun project that impresses and satisfies, give this recipe a whirl—you’ll enjoy every sticky, chocolaty bite just as much as I do!

Print