These Crispy-Treat Cheesecake Squares bring together the best of two dessert worlds — the gooey, nostalgic crunch of marshmallow rice cereal treats and the rich, creamy indulgence of cheesecake. Topped with fresh strawberries shaped like Santa hats, this recipe is festive, fun, and surprisingly easy to make.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how these squares feel both playful and indulgent. The crispy rice treat crust is a genius shortcut that adds texture and sweetness without the fuss of traditional crusts. The cheesecake layer is smooth and creamy, and when I top it with fresh strawberries, it not only looks adorable but also adds a burst of brightness that cuts through the richness. It’s a crowd-pleaser at holiday parties and just as good for a casual treat.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Marshmallow rice cereal treat base (made with crispy rice cereal, butter, and marshmallows)
Cheesecake filling (cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and eggs)
Fresh strawberries (for topping)

Note: The full recipe instructions typically include making the rice cereal treat base, baking or chilling the cheesecake layer on top, and finishing with fresh strawberries. I recommend reviewing exact amounts in the full recipe card.

Directions

I start by preparing the rice cereal treat base — melting butter and marshmallows, then stirring in the crispy rice cereal until evenly coated. I press this mixture into a parchment-lined square baking dish to create an even, compact layer.
Next, I mix up the cheesecake filling. I beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, eggs, and vanilla, mixing until fully combined.
I pour the cheesecake mixture over the cereal crust and bake it (or chill it, depending on the specific recipe method) until the filling is set.
Once cooled, I chill the whole pan in the fridge for at least 2 hours — this helps the cheesecake firm up and makes slicing easier.
Just before serving, I cut the squares and top each one with a fresh strawberry. I sometimes add a little whipped cream on the tip to complete the Santa hat look.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 25 squares
Total time: 3 hours 25 minutes (includes chilling)
Active time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

I like to swirl in a bit of melted chocolate or raspberry jam into the cheesecake layer for an extra pop of flavor.
When it’s not holiday season, I skip the strawberry Santa hats and just top the squares with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream.
For a fun twist, I sometimes use cocoa rice cereal in the crust for a chocolaty base.

Storage/Reheating

I store these cheesecake squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They hold their shape well and taste just as good the next day. I don’t recommend freezing, as the cereal base can get soggy and lose its texture.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I usually make it the night before and let it chill overnight. That way, the cheesecake sets perfectly and the flavors come together even better.

Do I need to bake the cheesecake layer?

Some versions call for baking, while others are no-bake. I follow the specific method in the recipe, but both versions work well depending on time and texture preference.

How do I keep the rice cereal crust from sticking?

I line my pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it. Pressing the cereal layer with greased hands or a spatula also helps keep things smooth.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

I stick to fresh strawberries for topping because frozen ones tend to release too much moisture and don’t hold their shape as well.

What’s the best way to cut clean squares?

I use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts. This gives me neat edges without pulling the filling.

Conclusion

These Crispy-Treat Cheesecake Squares are whimsical, rich, and a total joy to make and eat. I love how they bring together playful textures and festive flair with the ease of an approachable recipe. Whether I’m serving them at a holiday party or just making something special for the weekend, they always disappear fast.