Description
These homemade Coconut Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful twist on the classic dessert bar, combining gooey melted marshmallows, crispy Rice Krispies cereal, and sweet shredded coconut. They are quick to make, perfect for crowd-pleasing occasions, and can be served as squares or creatively decorated into festive shapes like Santas.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 cups mini marshmallows (about 2 - 10 ounce bags)
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal (or other toasted rice cereal)
- 1 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 2 cups mini marshmallows (additional for folding in whole)
- ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut (additional for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease the paper with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Melt butter and marshmallows: In a large pot over medium heat, melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add 8 cups of mini marshmallows and stir continuously until they completely melt and form a smooth mixture. Remove from heat immediately.
- Combine ingredients: Quickly fold in 1 ½ cups of sweetened shredded coconut and 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal to the melted marshmallow mixture. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated in the marshmallow mixture.
- Add more marshmallows: Fold in the additional 2 cups of mini marshmallows carefully, mixing until just incorporated to add texture and gooeyness.
- Transfer and shape: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Using a lightly greased silicone spatula, gently spread and press the mixture evenly into the pan, taking care not to pack it down too tightly.
- Add topping: Immediately sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of sweetened shredded coconut evenly over the top of the mixture for extra coconut flavor and texture.
- Set and cut: Allow the treats to sit at room temperature for at least 1 hour to set firmly. Once set, lift the parchment paper and treats out of the pan and cut into 12 squares or desired shapes.
Notes
- Mini marshmallows required (10 cups total) correspond to about 2 - 10 ounce bags, with 1 to 2 cups leftover after folding in additional marshmallows.
- Do not press the mixture down forcefully in the pan to maintain a light and crispy texture.
- If leaving out the treats for more than an hour, cover tightly to prevent drying out.
- For festive variations, create 'Santa' shapes by cutting into oblongs, dipping in melted white and red chocolate, and decorating with candy details as described.
- Store treats at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 6 weeks. Avoid refrigeration.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
