Christmas Rice Krispie Treats
Having the kids home for winter vacation is always difficult. They always seem to get bored, no matter how many toys, crafts, or games they have. Cold, rainy days make it even harder because they can’t go play outside. So today I kept them busy for a little bit with some fun Rice Krispie Treats we shaped out of a Jello Jigglers mold. They came out really cute, so I thought I’d share them with you.
I got this mold free at the supermarket and hadn’t used it yet. I kept meaning to make Jello, but kept forgetting. I had some Rice Krispie cereal left in the pantry that I wanted to use up, so that seemed like a more interesting choice for this mold.
I went through the pantry for icing and candy to decorate the treats. I had cookie icing and regular icing. Cookie icing is great for glueing on candy because it hardens. The other icing will get stiff, but not harden as much. It does make for pretty decorations though, especially the glitter one.
Besides sprinkles, I also pulled out some fruit roll-ups, Air Heads candy strips, and regular and mini M&Ms.
After I mixed the Rice Krispies with the melted butter and marshmallows, I just took scoops and place them in the mold cavities and pressed them in to form the shape. By the time I filled in the last cavity, I was able to flip the mold over and the shapes slid out thanks to the Baker’s Joy non-stick spray I used. So I just kept refilling the mold and making more shapes. I was able to fill the mold three times before running out of the Rice Krispie mix. I placed the molded treats in the fridge to firm up a bit more before decorating them.
Here’s where the kids had fun. My daughter usually takes her time decorating, while my son just likes to put as many candies as possible like he did for our gingerbread cookies a few weeks ago.
We didn’t end up using all the candies and sprinkles I pulled out, but the Air Heads made for some nice scarves on the snowmen. The fruit roll ups I used to wrap around the tops of the ornaments and for the snowman noses.
My kids enjoyed themselves and it kept them from fighting and driving me nuts for about an hour. And the treats came out reasonably good looking, so it was a success in my book. What are your kids doing for winter break?
Christmas Rice Krispie Treats
by The Sweet Chick
Prep Time: 20-30 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Keywords: stove top dessert snack rice krispies marshmallows cookie icing candy Christmas rice krispie treats American winter
Ingredients (21 treats)
For the treats
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cups mini marshmallows
- 4 cups Rice Krispie cereal
For the toppings
- mini M&Ms
- sprinkles
- fruit roll ups
- Air Heads Extremes
- Betty Crocker cookie icing
- Cake Mate glitter icing/ bakery icing
Additional items
- Jello Jigglers holiday mold
Instructions
For the treats
In a large sauce pan, melt butter and marshmallows over low heat. Stir until completely melted.
Remove from heat and add Rice Krispie cereal. Mix until fully incorporated.
Spray Jello mold with non-stick spray.
Once the cereal mixture has cooled slightly, and can be touched, place spoonfuls of mixture into the mold cavities.
Press the mixture in with your hands to form the shapes, filling the cavities flush.
Once all cavities are filled, flip the mold over and the treats should fall out by themselves. If not, give the mold a slight tap.
Place finished treats aside and fill the mold again.
Once all mixture is used, place finished treats in an airtight container and place in the fridge for about an hour or overnight.
For the toppings
Once the treats have set, let the decorating begin. Use your imagination.
Use the cookie icing as the glue to hold candies in place and also as a decoration. The fruit roll ups and Air Heads work great as scarves, just cut to fit.
The Cake Mate icing bags come with different tips (sold separately), so you can experiment. I used the star tip to make the snowman hat and mittens.
It’s all about having fun. Enjoy!
Notes
The treats can be made ahead of time and decorated another day.
Finished treats can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for longer storage.
Is Celery Acidic? Celery for Acid Reflux: Good or Bad?
Celery, a staple in many diets, is widely recognized for its crunch, low calorie count, and health benefits. But for those suffering from acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), the question arises: “Is celery acidic? Is celery for acid reflux a good choice or a potential trigger?” In this article, we will dive into the pH level of celery, its potential effects on acid reflux, and how to incorporate it into a reflux-friendly diet. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether celery can be your ally in managing acid reflux.
Is Celery Acidic? Understanding Its pH Level
Celery is classified as an alkaline food, with a pH level ranging from 5.7 to 6.0. While not as alkaline as some other vegetables, celery is still considered a low-acid option. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Food Item | pH Range | Acidity Level |
| Celery | 5.7–6.0 | Low Acid/Neutral |
| Spinach | 6.5–7.0 | Alkaline |
| Cucumber | 6.0–7.0 | Alkaline |
| Tomatoes | 4.0–4.6 | Alkaline |
Celery’s alkaline nature makes it a popular choice for individuals looking to balance their diet and reduce acidity. Its ability to help neutralize stomach acid has made it a go-to food for those managing acid reflux.
Related to Read: Is Bok Choy Safe for Acid Reflux?
Nutritional Benefits of Celery: A Powerhouse of Health
Celery isn’t just about its alkalinity; it’s a nutrient-rich vegetable offering numerous health benefits:
- High Water Content: With over 95% water, celery keeps you hydrated and aids in digestion.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Contains flavonoids, beta carotene, and vitamin C, which combat oxidative stress.
- Dietary Fiber: Promotes gut health and regular bowel movements.
- Low in Calories: A perfect snack for those looking to manage their weight.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Contains phytonutrients that may reduce inflammation in the body.
Can Celery Help with Acid Reflux? Exploring Its Impact
Celery is often recommended as a reflux-friendly food due to its alkalinity and digestive benefits. Here’s how celery might help:
1. Neutralizes Stomach Acid
The alkaline nature of celery can help balance stomach acid levels, reducing the likelihood of acid reflux symptoms.
2. Supports Digestion
Celery’s fiber content aids in smooth digestion, preventing issues like bloating and indigestion that can exacerbate acid reflux.
3. Low-Fat Content
High-fat foods can trigger acid reflux by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Celery, being naturally low in fat, avoids this problem.
4. Hydration
The high water content in celery helps dilute stomach acid, potentially preventing reflux episodes.
Related to Read: Is Cabbage Juice Acidic?
How to Include Celery in a Reflux-Friendly Diet?
To maximize celery’s benefits while minimizing any potential discomfort, consider these tips:
1. Eat It Raw
Raw celery retains its crunch, nutrients, and alkalinity. Pair it with a reflux-safe dip like hummus.
2. Add to Smoothies
Blend celery with alkaline fruits like bananas and spinach for a refreshing, reflux-friendly smoothie.
3. Incorporate into Soups
Cooking celery in low-acid soups can make it easier to digest without compromising its benefits.
4. Avoid High-Acid Pairings
Skip pairing celery with acidic ingredients like tomatoes or citrus-based dressings.
5. Drink Celery Juice
While slightly less fiber-rich, celery juice is another way to enjoy its alkalinity. Start with small servings to gauge your tolerance.
Author Tip: 7-Day Meal Plan For Gastritis
Potential Risks of Celery for Acid Reflux
Though celery is generally well-tolerated, it’s not entirely risk-free:
- Bloating: Excessive consumption may cause bloating in sensitive individuals.
- Allergic Reactions: Rarely, celery can trigger allergic responses in some people.
- Pesticide Residue: Opt for organic celery or wash thoroughly to avoid exposure to pesticides.
Author Tip: 7 Kinds of Foods to Avoid with GERD
Celery vs. Other Vegetables for Acid Reflux
How does celery compare to other vegetables in managing acid reflux?
| Vegetable | Acidity Level | Reflux-Friendly |
| Celery | Low Acid | Yes |
| Spinach | Alkaline | Yes |
| Broccoli | Alkaline | Yes |
| Onions | Acidic | No |
Celery stands out as a versatile, reflux-friendly vegetable, suitable for most diets.
Related to Read: Are Broccoli Acidic?
FAQs About Celery and Acid Reflux
1. Is celery good for acid reflux?
Yes, celery is alkaline and can help neutralize stomach acid, making it a good choice for acid reflux sufferers.
2. Can celery juice worsen acid reflux?
Unlikely, but individual tolerances vary. Start with small amounts to ensure it doesn’t trigger symptoms.
3. How much celery should I eat daily for acid reflux?
Aim for 1–2 stalks or half a cup of chopped celery daily as part of a balanced diet.
4. Are cooked celery and raw celery equally beneficial?
Both forms are beneficial, but cooking celery can make it easier to digest for some people.
5. Can celery replace medication for acid reflux?
While celery may alleviate symptoms, it’s not a substitute for prescribed medication. Always consult a healthcare provider for severe or persistent reflux.
Conclusion: Is Celery a Good Choice for Acid Reflux?
Celery’s low acidity, high water content, and digestive benefits make it an excellent option for managing acid reflux. Its versatility allows for easy incorporation into various meals, whether raw, cooked, or juiced. While individual results may vary, most people with acid reflux can enjoy celery without concern. By adding celery to your diet mindfully, you can take a step toward better digestive health and overall well-being.