The Truth About The Invention Of Rice Krispies Treats

Snap, crackle, pop! These three onomatopoeic words have become synonymous with Rice Krispies, the breakfast cereal made from pieces of crisped rice that, when combined with milk, emit a noise that you can probably imagine while reading this. Regardless of the last time you enjoyed a bowl of Rice Krispies in the morning, it's clear that the beloved brand exudes childhood nostalgia. The iconic mascot trio, memory-stimulating sound, shape, and aroma are embedded into many memories. 

Still, let's shift gears and talk about dessert for a bit. Rice Krispies can be served in an even more indulgent form, and many of us have partaken in making and/or eating this legendary snack.

Rice Krispies Treats are a legendary confection with an undemanding recipe that has graced several generations. All you need to make a batch of these chewy bars of goodness is the namesake cereal, butter, and marshmallows. Folks even come up with game-changing tricks for better Rice Krispies Treats and share them online, making them a communal snack, too. Over the past several decades, the treats have become quintessential for birthday parties, bake sales, and school lunches. And the story of how they entered the culinary world is as sweet as you can imagine.

Rice Krispies, a best-selling Kellogg's product, have been made in the company's famous Battle Creek, Michigan, factory since the late 1920s, according to the brand's website. But it wasn't until a few years after their debut that a Kellogg's worker unknowingly revolutionized the cereal when she combined it with two other pantry staples. A woman by the name of Mildred "Millie" Ghrist Day and one of her coworkers, Malitta Jensen, created the recipe for Rice Krispies Treats more than 80 years ago, according to the Des Moines Register. The marshmallow-infused squares were such a hit that Day was invited to Kansas City to make them for a Camp Fire Girls fundraiser.

Day accepted a job at Kellogg's test kitchen before graduating from Iowa State University, where she earned a home economics degree in 1928. In fact, the university honored the alumnus in a sweet way in 2001 when students whipped up a 2,480-pound Rice Krispies Treat for the school's annual spring festival. The original recipe for Rice Krispies Treats can be found on the brand's website and has been altered innumerable times to include different cereals and ingredients. 

Since 1941, it has also been printed on every single box of Rice Krispies, eternalizing one of the sweetest traditions of all time. And e year on September 18, National Rice Krispies Treats Day is celebrated by families near and far.