Step 1

Coat a deep 13x9 inch pan with cooking spray, or butter the pan with softened butter; set aside.

Step 2

In a large stockpot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla bean paste. Stir well until combined. Reduce the heat to medium-low.

Step 3

Add the mini marshmallows. Stir constantly until the marshmallows are completely melted and combined with the other ingredients.

Step 4

Remove the pan from the heat and immediately add the Rice Krispies cereal. Mix the cereal into the melted marshmallow mixture, turning it over from bottom to top to coat all of the cereal.

Step 5

Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Press the treat mixture into the pan using a piece of parchment paper on top, or with buttered hands. Gently press into the pan – don’t pack it too firmly. Add sprinkles to the top, if using.

Step 6

Let set for 1 hour, or until completely cooled before turning the block out and slicing into bars. You can also place the pan in the refrigerator to speed setting and to firm the block of cereal treats for the neatest slices. Please note that chilling too long can make the treats firmer than intended, so they should be brought to room temperature before serving.

Step 7

For large, bakery style treats, slice the slab into five even sections width-wise, then once down the center lengthwise to create 10 large rectangular bars.

Step 8

Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent melting or stickiness.