Samoa Rice Krispies (Print version)

Chewy Samoa Rice Krispies topped with caramel, toasted coconut, and chocolate drizzle for an easy no-bake dessert bar.

# Ingredients:

For the cereal base

01 - 5 tablespoons (70 g) unsalted butter, plus more for the pan
02 - 10 oz (285 g) mini marshmallows
03 - 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract
04 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - 6 cups (160 g) crisp rice cereal
06 - 1/2 cup (45 g) sweetened shredded coconut, lightly toasted

For the topping

07 - 1 cup (90 g) sweetened shredded coconut
08 - 11 oz (310 g) soft caramels, unwrapped
09 - 3 tablespoons heavy cream
10 - 1 cup (170 g) semisweet chocolate chips
11 - 1 teaspoon coconut oil or neutral oil
12 - 1/4 teaspoon flaky salt, optional

# Instructions:

01 - Grease a 9x13-inch pan and line it with parchment if you want easy lifting. Lightly butter a spatula or your fingers for pressing later.
02 - Place all the shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium-low heat. Stir for 4-6 minutes until golden and fragrant, then transfer to a plate.
03 - Melt the butter in a large pot over low heat. Add the marshmallows and stir until mostly melted, then remove from heat and stir in coconut extract and vanilla.
04 - Add the crisp rice cereal and 1/2 cup toasted coconut. Fold gently until evenly coated, then transfer to the prepared pan and press lightly into an even layer.
05 - Microwave the caramels and heavy cream in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth. Spread the caramel over the cereal base and sprinkle with the remaining toasted coconut.
06 - Melt the chocolate chips with coconut oil in 20-second bursts until smooth. Drizzle over the coconut caramel layer and sprinkle with flaky salt if using.
07 - Let the bars set at room temperature for about 45 minutes, or chill for 15 minutes if needed. Cut into 16 squares with a sharp knife.

# Good to know:

01 - Best served at room temperature for the softest chew.
02 - Setting time is about 45 minutes and is not included in cook time.
03 - Use certified gluten-free crisp rice cereal if needed.