Ingredients
- Mini marshmallows (5 cups): The base for the Rice Krispie mixture, adding sweetness and chewiness to the bars.
- Butter (3 tablespoons): Helps bind the marshmallows and cereal together, giving the bars their soft texture.
- Rice Krispie cereal (6 cups): The crispy foundation that gives these treats their signature crunch.
- Sweetened shredded coconut (14 oz bag): Toasted to perfection, bringing a rich, nutty flavor that’s essential to the Samoa-inspired taste.
- Milk (2 tablespoons): Used to thin out the dulce de leche, making it easier to mix with the toasted coconut.
- Dulce de leche (1 - 13.4 oz can): A creamy caramel layer that adds rich sweetness to these bars.
- Semisweet chocolate (6 oz, melted): Melted and spread over the top, adding a smooth chocolate finish to the bars.
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large sauté pan, add the shredded coconut and cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Continue stirring until the coconut turns golden brown and fragrant. Remove from the heat and set aside ½ cup for garnishing.
- Step 2:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the dulce de leche with 2 tablespoons of milk for about 1½ minutes. Stir until smooth and combined.
- Step 3:
- Mix the dulce de leche with the remaining toasted coconut, setting aside the ½ cup reserved earlier.
- Step 4:
- In another large microwave-safe bowl, melt the mini marshmallows and butter together for about 2 minutes. Stir until fully combined.
- Step 5:
- Pour the Rice Krispie cereal into the marshmallow mixture and mix well to ensure the cereal is fully coated.
- Step 6:
- Grease an 8x12-inch pan and press half of the Rice Krispie mixture into the bottom of the pan, forming an even layer.
- Step 7:
- Spread the caramel coconut mixture evenly over the first layer of Rice Krispies.
- Step 8:
- Top with the remaining Rice Krispie mixture and gently press down to form an even layer.
- Step 9:
- Melt the semisweet chocolate and spread it over the top of the bars. Garnish with the reserved ½ cup of toasted coconut.
- Step 10:
- Allow the chocolate to harden before cutting the bars into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips
- These Samoa Rice Krispies are best served once the chocolate has fully hardened, which helps the bars hold together perfectly.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
- For a cleaner cut, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water before slicing the bars.
Helpful Notes
- Be sure to constantly stir the coconut while toasting, as it can go from golden brown to burnt quickly.
- If you prefer a softer caramel layer, add an extra tablespoon of milk to the dulce de leche mixture to thin it out further.
- Spraying your hands with cooking spray makes it easier to press down the Rice Krispie layers without sticking.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Mark recommends adding a pinch of sea salt to the melted chocolate for a sweet and salty contrast.
- Pastry Chef Emily suggests adding chopped pecans or almonds for extra crunch and flavor.
Why you'll love this recipe
- The combination of crunchy Rice Krispies, toasted coconut, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate is irresistible.
- These bars are easy to make and require no baking, making them a convenient treat for any time of year.
- They’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a fun after-school snack that everyone will enjoy.
Variations
- For a darker flavor profile, use dark chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate.
- Add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top of the bars for extra richness and sweetness.
- For a nutty twist, mix in some chopped almonds or cashews with the toasted coconut layer.