Looking for a creepy, chewy, no-bake treat that’ll make your Halloween party a little weirdly wonderful? These Marshmallow Rice Bubbles Halloween Brains are everything you didn’t know you needed squishy, sweet, and just gory enough to make the kids giggle (and maybe squeal). Plus, they’re a blast to shape with little hands. You could even serve them after these fun Easy Halloween Dinners for Kids to keep the spooky theme going.
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Why We Love These Gooey Halloween Brains
Halloween always stirs up memories of sticky fingers, sugar highs, and that perfect mix of cute-and-creepy fun. These marshmallow brains hit every nostalgic note. The marshmallow melts into a soft cloud that clings to those crispy bubbles just right giving you a bite that’s chewy, crispy, and totally addictive.
We made these for a school bake sale one October, and they were gone before the bell rang. One kid called them “zombie marshmallows” and now… that’s their unofficial name in our house. It’s not just a recipe it’s a spooky little tradition that kicks off our Halloween every year. Want more salty-sweet fun? Try a batch of Halloween Pretzels alongside these creepy bites!
What You’ll Need to Get Started
Simple Ingredients
You only need five pantry staples to whip these up:
- 85g unsalted butter – or salted, just skip the extra pinch of salt
- 6 cups marshmallows – white or pink both work
- 4 cups Rice Bubbles (aka Krispies)
- ½ tsp salt – only if you’re using unsalted butter
- Red food colouring – for that spooky brain detail
Helpful Tools
Don’t worry you won’t need a cauldron.
- Small pot + heatproof bowl (Bain-Marie style)
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Butter knife
- Toothpick (for the “veins”)
How to Make Marshmallow Rice Bubbles Halloween Brains

1. Melt the Gooey Base
Start by setting up your Bain-Marie: pour ½ cup water in a small pot and bring it to a gentle boil. Pop a heatproof bowl on top, making sure it doesn’t touch the water.
Add your butter and marshmallows into the bowl and whisk as they melt. It might look like a sticky mess at first, but after 2–4 minutes it’ll turn into a glossy, gooey paste. Kinda like witch’s brew… only way sweeter.
2. Mix It All Up
Carefully remove the bowl using oven mitts or a tea towel. Add salt (if using) and a drop or two of food colouring give it a quick whisk.
Now grab your big mixing bowl filled with Rice Bubbles. Pour that warm marshmallow lava over and stir fast. This stuff sets quickly, so mix like you mean it!
3. Shape Your Brains
Let the mix cool just a little it’s easier to work with when it’s warm but not scorching. Rub a bit of oil on your hands (trust me on this), and scoop out small handfuls. Shape into ovals.
Then, take a butter knife and gently press down the center to create a brain-like groove. Finish with spooky details: dip a toothpick in red food dye and lightly draw “veins” across the top. It’s gross in the best way.
Store in an airtight container for up to a week. If you’re serving drinks too, this Pumpkin Spice Coffee Creamer makes a perfect cozy sip for grown-ups.
Tips, Tricks & Twists
- Oil up! Rub your hands or spoons with a bit of neutral oil so nothing sticks
- Get creative: Add a little strawberry jam inside for a “bloody brains” version
- Marshmallow swaps: Use pink ones for a fun, fleshy color
- Make ahead: Shape them the night before the party and decorate in the morning
When to Serve Your Halloween Brains
These spooky bites are perfect for:
- Kids’ Halloween parties
- A weirdly wonderful school treat
- Serving alongside a bubbling witch’s brew (aka raspberry soda)
Better yet, pair them with our creamy Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Dip for the ultimate sweet-and-scary combo.
FAQ
Can I use vegan marshmallows?
Yep! As long as they melt smoothly, you’re good to go.
How far in advance can I make them?
Up to a week! Just keep them airtight so they don’t get stale.
Can kids help with this recipe?
Totally! Little hands love shaping the brains just keep them away from the hot marshmallow step.
Try this weirdly wonderful Halloween treat and let me know how your zombie crew reacts! Snap a pic, tag us, and leave a comment below we’d love to see your spooky creations.
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