Description
Delicious and chewy Star Crunch Rice Krispie Treats combine classic marshmallow cereal squares with a rich blend of caramel, raisin puree, cocoa, oats, and chocolate chips for a decadent twist. Perfect for snack time or parties, these treats offer a unique combination of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 11 oz Kraft caramel bits
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chopped into pieces
- ¼ cup raisin puree (prepared as described below)
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup 1-minute rolled oats
- ½ cup chocolate chips (half semi-sweet & half milk chocolate recommended)
- 8 oz mini marshmallows
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Raisin Puree Preparation
- Raisins (quantity as needed for ¼ cup puree)
- Boiling water (enough to cover raisins, reserve 1/8 cup after soaking)
Instructions
- Prepare Raisin Puree: In a small bowl, soak raisins in boiling water for 15-20 minutes until rehydrated and plump. Drain the raisins, reserving 1/8 cup of soaking water, then blend the raisins with the reserved water in a food processor or blender until creamy. Set aside.
- Prepare Workspace: Line a counter space with parchment paper for the treats to cool and set once formed.
- Melt Caramel and Butter: In a large pot over low heat, combine caramel bits and unsalted butter. Stir frequently until the caramel starts to melt and combines with the butter.
- Add Puree, Cocoa, and Oats: Stir in the raisin puree, unsweetened cocoa powder, and rolled oats to the melted caramel mixture. Continue stirring over low heat until the caramel is fully melted and the mixture is well combined.
- Incorporate Chocolate Chips: Add the chocolate chips to the pot and stir constantly until they melt into the mixture for a smooth consistency.
- Add Marshmallows: Stir in the mini marshmallows and keep mixing until they are completely melted and fully incorporated into the mixture.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
- Mix in Rice Krispies: Remove the pot from heat and gently but thoroughly fold in Rice Krispies cereal until all the cereal is coated with the chocolate-caramel mixture.
- Scoop and Shape: Using a large cookie scoop (approximately ¼ cup), tightly pack the mixture into the scoop and place onto the parchment paper. The mixture will be sticky.
- Set and Shape Patties: Let the treats sit for 10-15 minutes until the tops are less sticky. Press the treats into patty shapes using the bottom of a flat measuring cup. If the bottoms remain sticky, flip them to help them set further.
- Cool Completely: Allow the treats to cool until firm and completely set before handling further.
- Store Treats: Store treats between layers of parchment paper or individually wrap them in plastic wrap. Place wrapped treats in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use a mix of semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips for balanced flavor.
- Pressing the treats while warm helps form compact, easy-to-handle squares.
- This recipe yields approximately 20 servings, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
- Store treats at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Ensure raisins are fully rehydrated for a smooth puree and better incorporation into the mixture.