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Are you ready to take a trip down memory lane with a delicious twist? I've taken the classic Rice Krispies Treats we all know and love, and elevated them with the irresistible charm of melted chocolate. Trust me, this fusion of crispy cereal, gooey marshmallows, and decadent chocolate is the snack you didn't know you needed. It's perfect for satisfying sweet cravings, impressing guests at gatherings, or simply enjoying a self-care moment.
What sets these Chocolate Rice Krispies Treats apart is the harmony of textures and flavors. I've incorporated semi-sweet chocolate chips right into the marshmallow mixture for that extra depth of flavor. And for the cherry on top? A drizzle of milk chocolate! Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your kitchen adventures, this simple yet indulgent recipe is a must-try. Let's get cooking!
Substitutions
Cereal: If Rice Krispies aren't your thing, you can totally swap them out with cornflakes or even Cheerios. I've tried this and it gives the treats a different but equally yummy texture.
Vegan Options: If you're vegan or catering to a vegan crowd, plant-based marshmallows and dairy-free chocolate chips work wonders. I've used them myself and couldn't really tell the difference.
Butter: If you're out of unsalted butter, you can use salted butter, but skip the pinch of salt in the recipe. I've also used coconut oil for a slightly different flavor profile.
Marshmallows: No marshmallows? You can use marshmallow fluff as a replacement. A 7-ounce jar roughly equals a 10-ounce bag of marshmallows. I've found this to work really well.
Chocolate: Not a fan of semi-sweet chocolate? White chocolate or dark chocolate can also work. I personally love the rich, deep flavor that dark chocolate brings to the treats.
Vanilla Extract: If you don't have vanilla extract, almond extract gives a really nice, nutty undertone. I'd use half the amount though, as it's quite strong.
Add-ins: Feel free to get creative with your add-ins! Nuts, dried fruits, or even candy pieces can be added. I've tossed in some chopped almonds and dried cranberries before, and it was a hit!
Chocolate Drizzle: If milk chocolate isn't available, any chocolate that melts well will work for the drizzle. I've even used peanut butter chips melted down for a peanut buttery drizzle.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Chocolate Rice Krispies Treats
Crafting the perfect batch of Chocolate Rice Krispies Treats is all about mastering a few key techniques. Here are some insider tips and tricks I've gathered over the years:
Line That Pan: Seriously, don't skip the parchment paper step. It makes removing and cutting the treats so much easier. You can also use aluminum foil, but make sure to grease it well to prevent sticking.
Low and Slow: When melting the marshmallows and chocolate, keep the heat low to prevent burning or seizing. Patience is key here!
Stir, Stir, Stir: Continuously stir your marshmallow and chocolate mixture to get a smooth consistency. Nobody wants lumps in their treats!
Quick Mixing: Once your wet ingredients are melted and smooth, you'll want to mix in the Rice Krispies cereal quickly to ensure an even coating. The mixture tends to set fast.
Firm Press: Use the back of a greased spoon or your hands (lightly wet them with water to prevent sticking) to firmly press the mixture into the pan. This helps the treats hold together better.
Cool Completely: I know it's tempting, but allow the treats to cool and set completely before cutting into them. This makes them easier to handle and they'll hold their shape better.
Knife Hack: To cut the treats more easily, you can grease the knife with a little butter. This way, you get cleaner cuts and less sticking.
Freshness Matters: Always use fresh marshmallows for the best texture. Stale marshmallows won’t melt as smoothly.
Mix-in Timing: If you're adding any nuts, candies, or other extras, make sure to add them to the cereal before pouring the marshmallow-chocolate mixture. This ensures a more even distribution.
Reusable Parchment: If you're making multiple batches, you can reuse the parchment paper. Just give it a quick wipe and you're good to go for round two!
Recipe
Chocolate Rice Krispies Treats
Equipment
- Stovetop
- Microwave-safe bowl (if using microwave for melting chocolate)
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 10 oz marshmallows 1 package, about 40 marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup milk chocolate chips for drizzling, optional
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prep the Dish: Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- Melt the Butter: In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat.
- Add Marshmallows: Add the marshmallows to the melted butter. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted.
- Optional Flavor: If you're using vanilla extract, stir it in now.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips to the marshmallow mixture. Keep stirring until the chocolate is completely melted and incorporated.
- Mix with Cereal: Remove the saucepan from heat. Quickly add the Rice Krispies cereal and a pinch of salt to the saucepan. Stir until the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow-chocolate mixture.
- Transfer: Using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon, press the mixture firmly into the prepared 9x13-inch baking dish. Make sure it's spread out evenly.
- Optional Chocolate Drizzle: If you want to add more chocolate, melt the milk chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until completely melted. Drizzle over the top of the Rice Krispies in the dish.
- Let it Set: Allow the mixture to cool at room temperature for at least one hour, or until it's set enough to cut into squares.
- Cut and Serve: Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the treats out of the dish. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Nutrition
Chocolate Rice Krispies Treats - FAQ
Yes, you can experiment with other types of crispy cereals, but keep in mind that the taste and texture may vary. Cornflakes or puffed rice are popular alternatives.
Absolutely! Vegan marshmallows and dairy-free chocolate chips can be substituted in a 1:1 ratio for their traditional counterparts.
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, Chocolate Rice Krispies Treats can last up to one week.
You can sprinkle some crushed cookies, pretzels, or even sea salt over the chocolate drizzle to add another layer of flavor and texture.
es, you can use white chocolate for a different flavor profile. Follow the same melting process as for the semi-sweet chocolate.
Make sure you're melting the marshmallows over low heat and stirring continuously. High heat can cause the marshmallows to seize or burn, preventing them from mixing smoothly.
Tina Techni says
great recipe for a last minute dessert.
Dan Schrudon says
I heated the marshmallows a little too fast and burnt them. Thankfully I had a second back.