Copycat Costco Marshmallow Crispy Cookies

If you’ve ever found yourself dreaming about those irresistibly chewy, sweet, and crunchy bites, this Copycat Costco Marshmallow Crispy Cookies recipe is here to turn those cravings into reality. Packed with gooey marshmallows and that perfectly toasted crispy edge, these cookies capture everything you love about Costco’s famous treat. Whether you want to whip up a batch for a special occasion or just to satisfy a snack attack, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to recreate that iconic flavor and texture right in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A perfect balance: Combines gooey marshmallows and crunchy cereal for a delightful texture contrast.
• Easy to make: Uses simple pantry ingredients that come together quickly with minimal fuss.
• Family favorite: Appeals to both kids and adults, making it a universal crowd-pleaser.
• Customizable: Flexible enough to tweak for dietary preferences or add your own twist.
• Cost-effective: Delivers that signature Costco flavor at home, saving you multiple trips to the store.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Copycat Costco Marshmallow Crispy Cookies recipe calls for a handful of essential ingredients, each playing a special role in crafting the final treat. From the sticky sweetness of marshmallows to the crunchy cereal base, every component is necessary for that iconic texture and taste.

• Rice cereal: The foundation providing the crispy crunch that holds the cookie together.
• Mini marshmallows: For the gooey, melty pockets of sweetness throughout.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients with a buttery flavor.
• Brown sugar: Gives a subtle caramel note and depth of sweetness.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavors.

Variations for Copycat Costco Marshmallow Crispy Cookies

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can customize it to fit your taste buds or dietary needs. Whether you want to add a bit of crunch, spice things up, or keep it allergen-free, these variations make it super simple to adapt.

• Nutty add-ins: Toss in chopped almonds or pecans for extra crunch and flavor complexity.
• Chocolate drizzle: Melt some dark or milk chocolate and drizzle over cooled cookies for a decadent touch.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free rice cereal to make it safe for gluten-sensitive friends.
• Peanut butter swap: Mix in creamy peanut butter with butter for a nutty twist on the classic.
• Fruit bits: Add dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy, fruity surprise.

How to Make Copycat Costco Marshmallow Crispy Cookies

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Sugar

Start by melting unsalted butter over low heat in a large saucepan. Once melted, stir in brown sugar and salt, cooking until the mixture bubbles gently and the sugar dissolves completely, creating a rich caramel base. This step is crucial for that subtly sweet, buttery flavor that sets these cookies apart.

Step 2: Add Mini Marshmallows

Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the mini marshmallows. Keep mixing until the marshmallows are partially melted and fully incorporated, providing the gooey bite that’s signature to these cookies.

Step 3: Mix in Vanilla and Cereal

Next, add vanilla extract for its warm aroma before gently folding in the rice cereal. Make sure to stir thoroughly so every piece gets coated in the marshmallow mixture, creating those crispy, chewy clusters we all love.

Step 4: Shape and Cool

Transfer the sticky mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Use a buttered spatula or your hands to flatten and shape the mixture into even squares or rectangular bars. Allow them to cool and set completely to achieve that perfect chewy yet crunchy texture.

Pro Tips for Making Copycat Costco Marshmallow Crispy Cookies

• Use fresh marshmallows: Stale marshmallows won’t melt as smoothly, affecting texture.
• Don’t overmix the cereal: Fold gently to avoid crushing the cereal pieces and maintain crispiness.
• Shape while warm: The mixture hardens fast, so work quickly when forming the cookies.
• Chill for extra firmness: Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes if you want sturdier bars.
• Line your pan: Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal effortless.

How to Serve Copycat Costco Marshmallow Crispy Cookies

Garnishes

Enhance presentation and flavor by dusting with powdered sugar, drizzling melted chocolate, or sprinkling colorful edible glitter for festive occasions. These little touches make the cookies look bakery-level irresistible.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk, creamy hot chocolate, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for classic comfort combinations that never disappoint.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut into bite-sized pieces for party platters, stack them with layers of whipped cream and berries for a parfait twist, or wrap individually in cellophane tied with ribbon to gift friends and family a sweet surprise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Copycat Costco Marshmallow Crispy Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They remain perfectly chewy and fresh for up to five days, making them an ideal make-ahead treat for busy weeks.

Freezing

Wrap the cookies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature for an easy snack anytime cravings hit.

Reheating

If you want to revive a little meltiness, warm the cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low-temperature oven for 5 minutes to restore their gooey goodness.

FAQs

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini ones?

Yes, but mini marshmallows melt more evenly and distribute better throughout the cookies, creating the classic texture.

What type of rice cereal is best for this recipe?

Plain, crispy rice cereal works best as it offers the crunch and neutral flavor needed to balance the sweetness.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Absolutely! Use a vegan butter substitute and marshmallows made without animal gelatin, which are widely available.

Is it necessary to use brown sugar?

Brown sugar adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor, but you can substitute with white sugar for a lighter taste, though the flavor will be less rich.

How do I prevent the cookies from sticking to the pan?

Lining your pan with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat makes cleanup easy and prevents sticking completely.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about recreating a beloved treat from the store and making it your own. This Copycat Costco Marshmallow Crispy Cookies recipe nails that perfect balance between chewy marshmallow goodness and crispy cereal crunch, guaranteed to become a staple in your baking routine. So grab your ingredients, embrace your inner baker, and get ready to enjoy a batch of cookies that might just become your new favorite snack!

Related Posts

• How to Make Perfect Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Irresistible Fudgy Cheesecake Brownies to Try
• Irresistible Crème Brûlée Cookies to Try Now

Print