Coconut Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

I absolutely adore this recipe because it brilliantly combines the gooey perfection of marshmallows with the subtle tropical twist of coconut, making each bite an irresistible treat. It’s the kind of nostalgic comfort food that not only satisfies my sweet tooth but also takes me back to simpler times with every delicious square.

How the combination of 10 ounces of marshmallows and 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter creates the perfect gooey base for my Coconut Rice Krispie Treats is something I adore. The sweetened shredded coconut adds a delightful tropical twist, and the slight hint of salt perfectly balances the sweetness.

Ingredients

Key for sweetness and binding; melts into gooey goodness: Marshmallows.

Shredded coconut that has been sweetened: imparts an island-like sweetness with a bit of chew.

Cereal Rice Krispies: Provides lightness and a crunchy texture.

Butter, unsalted: Enriches flavor and guarantees a smooth texture.

Vanilla extract: Boosts sweetness with a warm, as well as fragrant, note.

Ingredient Quantities

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 10 ounces marshmallows
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

Instructions

1. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light grease and set it aside.

2. In a big saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.

3. Combine the melted butter and marshmallows, and stir continuously until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.

4. Take the saucepan off the heat and mixed in the vanilla extract and salt.

5. Mix the marshmallow concoction into the Rice Krispies cereal, and stir it until the cereal is well coated.

6. The shredded coconut is folded in gently until it is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

7. Pour the blend into the prepped baking dish.

8. Using a greased spatula or waxed paper, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the dish.

9. Permit the confections to come to a complete halt and chill at room temp.

10. When it is fully set, cut into squares and serve.

Equipment Needed

1. 9×13-inch baking dish
2. Saucepan
3. Measuring spoons
4. Measuring cups
5. Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
6. Greased spatula or waxed paper
7. Knife

FAQ

• Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened shredded coconut?Indeed, using unsweetened coconut is perfectly acceptable if you want a treat that is a little less sweet. The texture will remain the same, but the flavor will be just a tad less sweet overall.

• How do I prevent the Coconut Rice Krispie Treats from sticking to my hands while pressing them?To ensure that the mixture does not stick to your hands, use a light coating of butter or non-stick cooking spray to grease your hands before pressing the mixture into the pan.
• Can I make these treats dairy-free?Yes, make the recipe dairy-free by using a dairy-free alternative to unsalted butter and vegan marshmallows.
• How should I store Coconut Rice Krispie Treats?Keep the goodies in a hermetic container at room temperature, and they’ll last for up to three days. Beyond that, the fridge is the place for them.
• Can I add extra ingredients like chocolate chips or nuts?Absolutely! You can fold in about half a cup of special ingredients—like chips or nuts—after the marshmallow mixture has been combined with the Rice Krispies and the coconut.
• What is the best way to melt marshmallows for this recipe?In a large saucepan, over low heat, melt the marshmallows, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until completely melted and smooth.

Substitutions and Variations

1/4 cup coconut oil replaces 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
10 ounces of marshmallow fluff substituted for the marshmallows
1 teaspoon coconut extract to replace the vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon sea salt, not regular salt
6 cups bran flakes instead of Rice Krispies cereal
1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut instead of sweetened shredded coconut

Pro Tips

1. Use Fresh Marshmallows Ensure that your marshmallows are fresh for the best texture. Stale or older marshmallows may result in harder treats.

2. Low Heat is Key Melt butter and marshmallows over low heat to prevent scorching and to ensure a smooth, creamy mixture. Patience here will pay off with a better final texture.

3. Grease Thoroughly Grease your baking dish and spatula or hands well to prevent sticking when pressing the mixture into the pan. This will make spreading the mixture easier and keep it uniform.

4. Even Distribution When mixing in the Rice Krispies and coconut, work quickly to evenly coat the cereal and distribute the coconut before the mixture starts to set. This will ensure every bite has even flavor and texture.

5. Chill for Perfect Cuts Allow the treats to cool completely at room temperature before cutting. For neater squares, you can refrigerate them for a short time to firm them up further. Make sure to use a sharp knife when slicing.