Description
Deliciously chewy and chocolatey Star Crunch Rice Krispie Treats made with Kraft caramel bits, raisin puree, cocoa powder, oats, and a mix of semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips. These treats combine marshmallows and Rice Krispies cereal for a nostalgic, irresistible snack perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 11 oz Kraft caramel bits
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chopped into pieces
- ¼ cup raisin puree
- 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
For Raisin Puree
- Raisins (quantity as needed for ¼ cup puree)
- Boiling water (enough to cover raisins, plus reserve 1/8 cup after soaking)
Instructions
- Prepare Raisin Puree: Place raisins in a small bowl and cover with boiling water. Let them soak for 15-20 minutes until they are plump and rehydrated. Drain the raisins, reserving 1/8 cup of the soaking water. Blend the drained raisins with the reserved water in a food processor or blender until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Prepare Workspace: Line a flat surface on your counter with parchment paper. This will be where you place the treats as they cool and set.
- Melt Caramel and Butter: In a large pot over low heat, add the Kraft caramel bits and unsalted butter. Stir frequently to ensure the caramel starts melting gently without burning.
- Add Puree, Cocoa, and Oats: Once the caramel starts melting, stir in the raisin puree, unsweetened cocoa powder, and rolled oats. Continue stirring until the caramel is fully melted and all ingredients are well combined.
- Incorporate Chocolate Chips: Add the chocolate chips and stir consistently until they melt completely into the caramel mixture, creating a smooth, chocolatey blend.
- Add Marshmallows: Stir in the mini marshmallows. Keep stirring until the marshmallows are fully melted and incorporated evenly throughout the mixture.
- Add Vanilla: Pour in the vanilla extract and mix well to combine the flavors.
- Mix in Rice Krispies: Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, stirring thoroughly but carefully so every piece is coated with the chocolate-caramel mixture.
- Scoop and Shape: Using a large cookie scoop (about 1/4 cup size), tightly pack the mixture into the scoop and transfer it onto the prepared parchment paper. The mixture will be sticky, so press firmly.
- Set and Shape Patties: Let the treats rest for 10-15 minutes until their tops become less sticky. Use the bottom of a flat measuring cup to press the treats into patties. If still sticky on the bottom, flip them over to allow further setting.
- Cool Completely: Allow the treats to set completely and cool fully before handling or storing.
- Store: Wrap each treat individually in plastic wrap or layer between parchment paper sheets in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Ensure low heat when melting caramel and butter to avoid burning.
- Use a combination of semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips for best flavor balance.
- Pressing the treats firmly while scooping helps maintain their shape.
- Allow the treats to cool fully to ensure they hold together well.
- Store in an airtight container to keep treats fresh and chewy.
