Are Rice Krispies Gluten Free?

If you follow a gluten-free diet, you may wonder: Are Rice Krispies gluten free? Rice itself is naturally gluten free, but that doesn't necessarily mean every crisped rice cereal is safe for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Unfortunately, traditional Kellogg's Rice Krispies cereal is not gluten free. The ingredient list includes malt flavor, which is typically made from barley and is a source of gluten.

Can People With Celiac Disease Eat Rice Krispies?

Traditional Kellogg's Rice Krispies are not considered a gluten-free cereal and should be avoided by people with celiac disease. While the main ingredient is rice, Kellogg's Rice Krispies contains malt flavor. Barley malt is not gluten free, which makes the cereal not safe for a gluten free diet.

This is an easy ingredient to overlook because the cereal isn't made with wheat. If you're shopping for cereal for someone with celiac disease, don't assume that a rice-based cereal is automatically gluten free.

If you have celiac disease, look for a crisped rice cereal that is specifically labeled gluten free. For additional peace of mind, choosing a certified gluten-free cereal can be helpful.

Remember that product formulations can change, so always check the package before buying even if you've purchased the same product before.

Aren't Kellogg's Rice Krispies Just Made From Rice?

When my daughter was first diagnosed with Celiac Disease back in 2011, Kelloggs did have a GF version of rice crispies, but it was discontinued not too long after. Then for years I used Erewhorn brand, but they have been discontinued also. It can be very frustrating to find gluten-free products you love, and then no longer be able to find them.

The good news? You don't have to give up crispy rice treats! There are now plenty of brands creating delicious gluten free rice crispy substitutions to help you recreate this classic childhood favorite and make gluten free Rice Krispie treats at home.

What Rice Krispies Are Gluten Free?

There are several alternatives that work well when you're craving classic crispy rice cereal. Here are a few of our favorite Gluten Free Rice Krispies Substitutions:

• One Degree Organic Foods Sprouted Brown Rice Crisps.The company lists Sprouted Brown Rice Crisps among its certified gluten-free cereals. These are a great choice if you want a gluten free crisped rice cereal with organic ingredients.
• Nature's Path Organic Crispy Rice Gluten Free Cereal is one of my favorite options for making gluten-free Rice Krispie treats. It's made with brown rice flour, cane sugar, sea salt and molasses, and the company specifically labels the cereal gluten free. The cereal has a slightly heartier texture than traditional Rice Krispies, but it works beautifully in homemade treats.

Store-Brand Gluten Free Crispy Rice Cereal

You can also find gluten free crispy rice cereal from some grocery store brands. Availability varies by location, so always check the package for the current gluten free labeling and ingredients.

Many gluten free shoppers also use brands such as Aldi's crispy rice cereal, Whole Food's 365, or other store-brand versions. Because store-brand formulations can change, I recommend checking the box every time rather than relying on an older ingredient list.

Making Rice Krispie Treats has been a long time family tradition for summer BBQ's and holiday desserts. They're loved by both kids and adults, and are an easy, no-bake treat. I continue to follow the "Original" Rice Krispie Treat Recipe only subbing in the gluten-free rice crispies.

Are Marshmallows Gluten Free?

Most plain marshmallows are made without gluten-containing ingredients, but that doesn't mean every brand is automatically safe for everyone following a gluten free diet.

If you're making gluten-free Rice Krispie treats for someone with celiac disease, check the marshmallow package and choose a product that is clearly labeled gluten free when possible.

You should also check any other mix-ins you plan to add.

Dietary Substitutions

Dairy Free: To make dairy-free gluten-free Rice Krispie treats, substitute the butter with a dairy-free or vegan butter alternative. Be sure to check the labels on your cereal and marshmallows as well.

Vegan: Use My Dandy Vegan marshmallows which do not contain gelatin.

Want to try a fruity version of the this classic treat? Check out these Strawberry Rice Crispy Treats!

How to Make this Homemade Gluten Free Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Once you have your gluten free crispy rice cereal, making homemade gluten free rice krispie treats is incredibly easy!

Ingredients you'll need:

Ingredients You'll Need

• 6 cups gluten free crispy rice cereal
• 1 (10-ounce) bag gluten-free marshmallows
• 3 tablespoons butter, salted

Instructions

Add butter to a large saucepan over low heat, add marshmallows and stir until completely melted.

Stir in marshmallows then continue stirring until completely melted. Remove from heat.

Pour in the gluten free rice krispies cereal, stirring until well coated with the melted marshmallows.

Press mixture into a greased 9x13 pan. If your spatula gets sticky, grease it with some butter.

Cut into squares and serve.

How Do You Store Gluten Free Rice Krispie Treats?

Store homemade gluten-free Rice Krispie treats in an airtight container at room temperature.

For the best texture, enjoy them within a few days. I don't recommend refrigerating them because the treats can become firmer and lose some of their soft, chewy texture.

You can also individually wrap the squares, making them an easy gluten free lunchbox snack or after-school treat.

Let's cook!