Pinewood Derby Treats

This year 9-year-old Christian has been involved in Cub Scouts, so I made Rice Krispie treats for the pack's annual Pinewood Derby.

I had hoped these sweet treats would stop traffic, but I'm sorry to report that Christian's Derby dreams crashed before the event even started. Joe and Christian attended a workshop to build the car last weekend, and Christian and Carson painted the body Friday night. But when Joe asked Christian for the wheels so they could assemble the car, Christian revealed that he had thrown them away. At a gas station. Thirty minutes away. My sweet husband drove back into town late at night and dug through the trash -- shattering his phone in the process -- but was unable to find all the pieces. So unfortunately our Cub Scout did not cross the finish line this year. Maybe we will refuel and try again next year. And the children can race to our kitchen to finish off these sweet treats.

Fruity Rice Krispie Treats

If you don't have this simple recipe in your files, keep it for an easy go-to when you need a quick treat.

3 tablespoons margarine, melted

1 (10-ounce) package miniature marshmallows

4 cups Rice Krispies

2 cups Fruit Loops

Melt margarine in a large saucepan over low heat. Pour in marshmallows, stirring until melted. Remove from heat and add cereal. Stir until coated, then transfer to a greased casserole dish. Use waxed paper to press the treats flat into the dish. Allow the treats to cool, then cut into squares with a sharp knife. (Note: Double this recipe for thick treats.)