Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or nonstick cooking spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
- Melt the butter.In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Add the marshmallows.Stir in the mini marshmallows until completely melted and smooth. Keep the heat low to prevent the mixture from becoming too hot and making the treats hard.
- Add the lemon flavor.Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, salt, and optional yellow food coloring until evenly combined.
- Mix in the cereal.Add the crispy rice cereal and gently fold until every piece is coated with the marshmallow mixture.
- Press into the pan.Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Using a lightly buttered spatula or greased hands, gently press it into an even layer. Avoid packing it too tightly so the treats stay soft and chewy.
- Prepare the glaze (optional).Whisk the powdered sugar with enough lemon juice to create a smooth, pourable glaze.
- Cool and finish.Let the treats cool at room temperature for about 30–45 minutes. Drizzle with the lemon glaze, if desired, and sprinkle with extra lemon zest.
- Slice and serve.Once set, cut into squares and enjoy your homemade lemon treats.