Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Take a 12-cup muffin tray and lightly grease each cup, then set aside.
- Measure marshmallows and place them into a large, microwave-safe bowl. Heat in the microwave for approximately 25 to 30 seconds until softened and puffed. Stir well; if not completely melted, repeat heating in short bursts until smooth.
- Once marshmallows are melted, add your melted butter or coconut oil and vanilla extract to the bowl. Stir everything very well until fully incorporated into the marshmallow mixture.
- Add rice cereal, one cup at a time, gently folding it into the marshmallow mixture until all cereal is evenly coated and fully incorporated.
- Scoop heaping 1/4 cup portions of the rice krispie treat mixture into the prepared muffin tray cups to form the base of your nests.
- To shape them, slightly wet your hands with water or lightly coat with butter/coconut oil (a little pinch of salt on hands also helps). Gently press the rice krispies into a cup or tart-like shape within each muffin cup, creating an indentation for the "eggs."
- Place the entire muffin tray into the fridge and let the nests set and harden for at least 2 hours, or even overnight, for best results.
- Once set and firm, use a butter knife to carefully pop them out of the muffin tray. Fill them with mini eggs, jellybeans, or fresh berries.
- Optional: For nests that hold candy securely, melt about a half Tablespoon of chocolate chips. Drizzle this melted chocolate into each nest, then add your mini eggs. Allow chocolate to set and harden to secure the eggs.
Notes
For an enhanced sweet and salty balance, consider substituting the coconut oil with lightly salted butter and ensuring a pinch of sea salt is added to the marshmallow mixture. To prevent sticking when shaping the nests, wet your hands with water or coat them lightly with butter or coconut oil. For super easy removal, line your muffin tin with parchment paper cups. If using chocolate chips, melt them in 15-second intervals, stirring after each, to prevent burning. Ensure the marshmallow mixture is thoroughly combined before adding the cereal for even flavor. Store finished nests in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain softness and freshness. Avoid overheating marshmallows, as this is the primary cause of hard treats. Do not freeze these nests, as it can negatively affect their texture. Nutrition information is estimated based on common ingredients and serving sizes and may vary.