Easy Pumpkin Pie Marshmallow Treats are a fun and simple twist on classic marshmallow treats, bursting with cozy pumpkin flavor and a hint of pie spices. These treats are sweet, chewy, and have just the right touch of fall warmth that you’ll love. They mix the softness of marshmallows with pumpkin pie goodness, making them perfect for the season.
I love making these treats when I want something quick and festive without spending hours in the kitchen. The best part is how easy they come together—just a few ingredients, and you can have a batch ready to share in no time. I often find that kids and adults alike can’t get enough of the subtle pumpkin spice, and they’re great to bring to potlucks or holiday parties.
My favorite way to enjoy these treats is fresh and slightly warm, but they also hold up well if you want to pack them as little fall-themed snacks. Sometimes, I like to add a few chopped nuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top for a little extra something special. These Easy Pumpkin Pie Marshmallow Treats definitely bring a bit of autumn cheer to any day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: Use pure pumpkin puree for the best flavor. Avoid pumpkin pie filling since it’s sweetened and spiced already. If you don’t have pumpkin, sweet potato puree is a fun substitute.
Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows melt easily and give a smooth texture. You can substitute with large marshmallows but chop them up first for faster melting.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: This adds the warm fall flavor. If you don’t have it, mix cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves in small amounts to create your own blend.
Crispy Rice Cereal: This cereal gives the treat its crunchy texture. You can try other puffed rice cereals if needed, but classic crispy rice works best.
How Do You Get the Perfect Sticky & Chewy Texture in Marshmallow Treats?
The key to great texture is melting the marshmallows slowly and mixing quickly with cereal before it cools.
- Melt butter and pumpkin puree on low heat first to prevent burning.
- Add marshmallows gradually, stirring constantly until smooth to avoid lumps.
- Once melted, remove from heat before adding vanilla and cereal to keep mixture warm but not too hot.
- Mix cereal in quickly but gently to coat every piece well without squashing it.
- Press the mixture firmly but not too hard into the pan to keep the treats light and chewy.
- Sprinkle extra marshmallows on top while warm so they stick nicely as a colorful topping.
Following these steps helps the treats hold together nicely with a soft, chewy texture that’s easy to cut and serve.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for melting butter, pumpkin, and marshmallows smoothly over low heat.
- Spatula – helpful for stirring the sticky marshmallow mixture and pressing treats evenly.
- 9×13-inch baking pan – the perfect size to shape and cool your pumpkin pie treats.
- Parchment paper or cooking spray – keeps treats from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Stir in white chocolate chips for extra sweetness and creaminess.
- Use gluten-free crispy rice cereal if you want a gluten-free treat option.
- Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the pumpkin spice for a bolder fall taste.
Easy Pumpkin Pie Marshmallow Treats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 6 cups crispy rice cereal
- ¼ cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows, divided (about 5 cups)
- ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Additional mini marshmallows for topping (white and orange colored if possible)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and mixing, plus about 1 hour to allow the treats to cool and set at room temperature. In total, plan for about 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Pan:
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This helps the treats come out easily once set.
2. Melt Butter and Mix Pumpkin:
In a large pot over low heat, gently melt the butter. Add the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice, stirring until everything is well combined.
3. Melt the Marshmallows:
Add about 4 cups of mini marshmallows to the pot. Stir constantly until the marshmallows are fully melted and the mixture becomes smooth.
4. Add Vanilla and Cereal:
Remove the pot from heat, then stir in the vanilla extract. Quickly add the crispy rice cereal and stir to coat the cereal evenly with the marshmallow mixture.
5. Press into the Pan and Add Topping:
Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Press it down evenly and firmly with a spatula or buttered hands. While still warm, sprinkle the remaining mini marshmallows over the top and gently press them into the surface.
6. Cool and Serve:
Let the treats cool at room temperature until fully set, about 1 hour. Once cooled, cut into squares or shapes of your choice and enjoy!
Can I Use Canned Pumpkin Pie Filling Instead of Pumpkin Puree?
It’s best to use plain pumpkin puree because pumpkin pie filling is already sweetened and spiced, which can alter the flavor and texture of the treats.
How Should I Store These Pumpkin Pie Marshmallow Treats?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and chewy. Avoid refrigerating as it can make them hard.
Can I Make These Treats Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare them a day or two in advance, and store them in an airtight container. They actually hold their flavor well when made ahead.
What Can I Use Instead of Crispy Rice Cereal?
If you don’t have crispy rice cereal, puffed rice cereal works as a substitute, but the texture might be slightly different. Avoid using granola or other heavy cereals to maintain the chewiness.
