Rice Krispie Nests

Admit it - you love Rice Krispie Treats!! There are just some universal truths where taste is concerned and foods that make anything taste good - cream cheese frosting, caramel sauce, raspberry puree, melted marshmallows - this elite group of toppings that would make even wood chips delicious. (Glad that someone was inspired to combine marshmallows with cereal instead of wood chips). Following is a Spring Nest version that is such fun for the kids to make for an Easter craft and treat! I would imagine even birds would opt for this medium to build their nests! The kids can melt the marshmallows, stir in the cereal, add the green food dye and shape the nests - a children's activity that requires just the ingredients and a little supervision!

Rice Krispie Spring Nests:
8 cups Rice Krispies type cereal
1 package (40 large) marshmallows
1/4 cup butter
2 -3 drops green food coloring
extra butter for hands
parchment or waxed paper
large colored jellybeans or Cadbury Mini-Eggs (preferred)

-In large saucepan, over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup butter. Add marshmallows and stir frequently until marshmallows have melted and mixture is smooth. Stir in food coloring.

-Place Rice Krispies in large mixing bowl. Pour marshmallow mixture over the cereal and stir until well combined. Let mixture rest and cool for about 5 minutes.

-Place a sheet of paper on work surface. Rub a small amount of soft butter on clean hands and take a tangerine-size handful of mixture. Shape and push into a ball and then flatten onto the paper, making an indentation in the center for the bird "eggs". Arrange 3 - 5 mini-eggs in each nest. Let sit and set up for about 20 minutes as children lick off their fingers and what remains in the bowl. Makes 12 - 14 "nest" treats.

Persnickety P.S.:
-You'll win the "favorite grandma award" when you help the grandchildren make these!!