Easy No-Bake Speckled Egg Nest Cookies
These no-bake cookies combine toasted coconut, marshmallows, and crunchy rice cereal to create adorable speckled egg nests perfect for spring celebrations. Quick and easy to make, they require no oven and are a nostalgic treat for all ages.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30-40 minutes
- Yield: 12 nests 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups rice cereal (like Rice Krispies)
- 2 cups shredded sweetened coconut (toasted recommended)
- 1 bag (10 oz) mini marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup speckled candy eggs (pastel-colored chocolate eggs)
- Optional: pinch of salt
Instructions
- Toast the coconut (optional but recommended): Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and stir 2 cups of shredded coconut frequently until golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Transfer to a bowl to cool.
- Prepare your workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper for shaping and setting the nests.
- Melt butter and marshmallows: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 3 tablespoons of softened butter. Add 10 oz of mini marshmallows and stir constantly until fully melted and smooth, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Add vanilla and salt: Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if using.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix 4 cups rice cereal and toasted coconut until well combined.
- Mix marshmallow with dry ingredients: Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the cereal and coconut. Quickly but gently stir until every bit is coated.
- Shape the nests: Using a candy scoop or wet hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and form small nests with a hollow center on the lined baking sheet. Yield about 12 nests.
- Place candy eggs: Immediately press 4-5 speckled candy eggs into the center of each nest gently.
- Let set: Allow the nests to cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes or refrigerate for 10-15 minutes if in a hurry.
- Serve or store: Once set, enjoy or package as festive treats.
Notes
Watch heat closely when melting marshmallows to avoid burning. Shape nests while mixture is warm for easier molding. Wet hands or utensils lightly to prevent sticking. Toasting coconut enhances flavor but is optional. Use gluten-free cereal and dairy-free substitutes for dietary adaptations.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 nest
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 15
- Sodium: 90
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 26
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 1.5
Keywords: no-bake cookies, speckled egg nests, spring treats, Easter cookies, toasted coconut, marshmallow cookies, rice cereal treats