Halloween is the only night where I feel permission to mix chaos and charm in the kitchen. This year, I decided to transform my usual Rice Krispie treats into pumpkin-shaped delights that carry a little bit of mischief and a splash of fall magic. The scent of caramelized pumpkin melds with toasted marshmallows, creating an irresistible aroma that dances through my home.
These treats aren’t just for making monsters happy; they also bring a nostalgic sparkle to my annual Halloween gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients and a sprinkle of creativity, you can turn a simple snack into a conversation-starting centerpiece. Plus, they’re perfect for ‘mummy’ snack bags or spooky party tables.

Pumpkin-Shaped Rice Krispie Treats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by preparing the caramelized pumpkin puree: cook pumpkin puree in a skillet over medium heat until it thickens and turns a deep orange color, about 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently. Let it cool slightly before using.2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over low heat, letting it melt slowly and smell fragrant.2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Add the mini marshmallows to the melted butter and stir gently until completely melted and glossy, creating a sticky, smooth mixture and releasing a sweet aroma.4 cups mini marshmallows
- Remove the pot from heat and quickly fold in the caramelized pumpkin puree, stirring until well combined and smooth.1/2 cup caramelized pumpkin puree
- Gradually add the rice cereal to the mixture, folding gently with a spatula to evenly coat the cereal without crushing it.6 cups rice cereal (like Rice Krispies)
- Scoop the mixture into a silicone mold or onto a parchment-lined tray, then press firmly to compact it and shape into small pumpkin-like mounds.
- Use your fingers or a small tool to add a small, star-shaped stem on top of each treat, resembling a pumpkin's stalk.
- Let the treats set at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes until firm and easily removable from the mold or tray.
- Once cooled and set, carefully remove the treats from the mold or tray and display them on a serving platter.
- Enjoy these colorful, festive pumpkin treats—they're perfect for a spooky party or Halloween celebration.
This recipe is a gentle nudge to embrace your inner kid and enjoy the thrill of turning familiar treats into festive fun. Whatever your Halloween plans, these treats are sure to add a splash of color and a dash of joy to your spooky night.
Welcome to Proud of This Mess – a place where food, creativity, and a little chaos come together on a plate!
I’m Emily Carter, the founder and heart behind this little corner of the internet. Born and raised in the United States, I’ve always had a passion for cooking, experimenting, and sharing the messy, delicious journey of creating food that brings people together. My philosophy is simple: good food doesn’t have to be perfect, and a little mess makes it memorable.
At Proud of This Mess, we believe that cooking is more than just following recipes—it’s about exploring flavors, discovering new techniques, and making every meal an experience worth savoring. From comforting weeknight dinners to indulgent desserts, our goal is to inspire home cooks of all levels to embrace the joy of food without fear of imperfection.