Decadent Cocoa Rice Krispies Treats
Indulge in the delight of these Decadent Cocoa Rice Krispies Treats, where sweet, gooey marshmallows meet the rich flavor of cocoa in a crispy, chewy treat. Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or just a sweet snack at home, these treats are incredibly simple to make and are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this chocolatey snack that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. So gather your friends and family, make these delectable treats, and watch them disappear!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
margarine or butter
3 tablespoons (melted)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (added to melted butter)
miniature marshmallows
5 cups (melted)
vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon (added to melted marshmallows)
unsweetened cocoa powder
4 teaspoons (sifted and mixed into marshmallows)
COCOA KRISPIES® cereal
6 cups (folded into mixture)
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan, melt butter (or margarine) over low heat. Add in the salt to enhance the flavor.
2
Once the butter is melted, add the miniature marshmallows and vanilla extract. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and the marshmallows have completely melted.
3
Gently sprinkle in the unsweetened cocoa powder and mix well until fully incorporated and the mixture is a rich chocolate color.
4
Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully stir in the Cocoa Krispies cereal, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the chocolatey marshmallow mix.
5
Prepare a 13x9 inch baking dish by greasing it lightly with butter or cooking spray. Pour the mixture into the dish, using a spatula to spread it out evenly.
6
With slightly damp hands or a silicone spatula coated with cooking spray, press the mixture down firmly to create an even layer. Be careful not to compress too hard.
7
Allow the mixture to cool completely at room temperature. Once set, cut into squares and serve. Enjoy your delicious treats!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Decadent Cocoa Rice Krispies Treats?
They are a rich, chocolatey twist on the classic marshmallow cereal treat, using Cocoa Krispies cereal and added cocoa powder for a deep chocolate flavor.
What ingredients are required for this recipe?
You will need margarine or butter, salt, miniature marshmallows, vanilla extract, unsweetened cocoa powder, and Cocoa Krispies cereal.
How many marshmallows are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 5 cups of miniature marshmallows.
Do I need to bake Cocoa Rice Krispies Treats?
No, this is a no-bake recipe that is prepared on the stovetop and allowed to set at room temperature.
What size baking dish should I use?
A 13x9 inch baking dish is recommended for this recipe.
Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, you can use either 3 tablespoons of margarine or butter depending on your preference.
Why is salt added to the melted butter?
A 1/4 teaspoon of salt is added to enhance the overall flavor and balance the sweetness of the marshmallows.
How much cocoa powder is needed?
The recipe requires 4 teaspoons of unsweetened cocoa powder.
When should I add the vanilla extract?
The 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract should be added once the butter is melted, along with the miniature marshmallows.
How much cereal is required?
You will need 6 cups of COCOA KRISPIES cereal.
How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands?
You can use slightly damp hands or a silicone spatula coated with cooking spray to press the mixture into the pan.
Should I press the mixture firmly into the pan?
Yes, press down firmly to create an even layer, but be careful not to compress it too hard so the treats remain chewy.
How should the cocoa powder be prepared?
The cocoa powder should be sifted and mixed thoroughly into the melted marshmallow mixture until it reaches a rich chocolate color.
How long do the treats need to cool?
The treats should cool completely at room temperature until they are set before cutting into squares.
Can I use large marshmallows instead of miniature ones?
While the recipe specifies 5 cups of miniature marshmallows, you can use large ones as long as the total volume or weight is equivalent, though minis melt faster and more evenly.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, these are perfect for kids' parties, lunchboxes, or as a fun snack to make together.
What type of cocoa powder should I use?
Use unsweetened cocoa powder for this recipe to control the sweetness level.
How do I prepare the baking dish?
Lightly grease the 13x9 inch dish with butter or cooking spray before pouring in the cereal mixture.
What heat setting should I use to melt the butter?
Use low heat to melt the butter and marshmallows to prevent burning.
Can I add other mix-ins like chocolate chips?
Yes, you can fold in chocolate chips or nuts along with the cereal for extra texture and flavor.
How many servings does this recipe make?
A standard 13x9 inch pan typically yields 12 to 24 squares depending on how large you cut them.
Are these treats chewy or crunchy?
They offer a perfect balance of gooey marshmallow chewiness and the crisp texture of the cereal.
How should I store leftover treats?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and soft.
How long do Cocoa Rice Krispies Treats stay fresh?
They are best enjoyed within 2-3 days, as the cereal can eventually lose its crunch.
Can I make these treats gluten-free?
To make them gluten-free, ensure your puffed rice cereal and marshmallows are certified gluten-free, as some brands use barley malt.
Can I use a microwave instead of a saucepan?
Yes, you can melt the butter and marshmallows in a large microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
Is it necessary to sift the cocoa powder?
Sifting is recommended to remove lumps, ensuring the cocoa incorporates smoothly into the marshmallow mixture.
Can I use brown butter for this recipe?
Yes, browning the butter first can add a wonderful nutty depth of flavor to these chocolate treats.
What tags define this recipe?
This recipe is tagged as dessert, snack, chocolate, easy recipe, no-bake, marshmallow treats, and cereal treats.
Should the mixture be removed from heat before adding cereal?
Yes, remove the saucepan from the heat before stirring in the Cocoa Krispies to prevent the cereal from getting too soft.