Krispie Cherry Chocolate Bombs

Introduction

Transform humble Rice Krispies into an elegant, show-stopping dessert with this recipe for Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats! It’s surprisingly easy, incredibly fast, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to elevate your snack game with this delightful twist on a classic.

Why This Works

This recipe works because it masterfully blends the familiar comfort of Rice Krispies treats with the sophisticated indulgence of chocolate and cherries. The combination of textures – the crispy treats, the chewy cherries, and the smooth chocolate – creates a truly satisfying experience. It’s impressively delicious with minimal effort, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. The ingredients are readily available, making it a spontaneous baking pleasure.

Key Ingredients

🥣 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
🍫 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
🍒 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
🧈 1/2 cup unsalted butter
🍯 1/2 cup marshmallow creme

Instructions

1️⃣ Melt the Butter: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter completely. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
2️⃣ Add Marshmallow Creme: Once the butter is melted, add the marshmallow creme. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
3️⃣ Incorporate Cereal: Remove the pan from the heat and gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal. Be careful not to overmix; you want the cereal to be coated but still retain some crispness.
4️⃣ Add Cherries: Stir in the chopped dried cherries.
5️⃣ Shape the Treats: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. Press the Rice Krispie mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
6️⃣ Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until completely smooth.
7️⃣ Coat the Treats: Pour the melted chocolate over the Rice Krispie mixture and spread evenly with a spatula or knife.
8️⃣ Chill and Cut: Refrigerate the treats for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set completely. Once firm, cut into squares and serve.

Handy Tips

• Consider using a non-stick baking pan for easier removal of the treats.
• For a richer chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.
• If your dried cherries are particularly large, chop them into smaller pieces for even distribution.
• Don’t overmix the cereal; a few slightly uncoated pieces add to the textural experience.

Heat Control

Low heat is crucial when melting the butter and marshmallow creme. High heat will scorch the marshmallow creme, resulting in a burnt taste and a lumpy texture. The goal is to gently melt the ingredients without browning them.

Crunch Factor

The crunch comes from the Rice Krispies cereal. Slightly under-mixing the cereal helps maintain its crispness. The chewy dried cherries provide a delightful contrast to the crispy cereal. The chocolate adds a smooth, rich layer that complements the other textures.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Line your baking pan with parchment paper for effortless removal.
• Use a spatula with a flexible edge to spread the chocolate evenly.
• For a more intense cherry flavor, soak the dried cherries in cherry juice or liqueur for 30 minutes before adding them to the mix.

Storage Tips

Store leftover Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat briefly in the microwave for a few seconds if desired.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These treats make wonderful gifts! Package individual squares in cellophane bags tied with ribbon. You can also arrange them in a decorative box or tin. Add a personalized tag for a special touch.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Spicy Cherry: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili powder to the marshmallow mixture for a spicy kick.
🌟 Orange Zest: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of orange zest into the marshmallow mixture for a bright citrusy flavor.
🌟 Sea Salt: Sprinkle sea salt flakes over the melted chocolate before it sets for a sweet and salty contrast.
🌟 Peanut Butter: Stir in 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter with the marshmallow mixture for a delightful peanut butter and cherry combination.

Troubleshooting

• Sticky Treats: If the treats are too sticky, it’s likely that the marshmallow creme wasn’t fully cooked. Try refrigerating them for longer to firm them up.
• Burnt Marshmallow Creme: This is caused by too high heat. Start with very low heat and stir constantly.
• Uneven Chocolate Coating: Ensure the chocolate is completely melted and smooth before pouring. Spread it evenly with a spatula or offset knife.

FAQ

• Can I use fresh cherries? While dried cherries are recommended for their texture and ease of use, you can try using fresh cherries, pitted and chopped. Keep in mind that they will release more moisture, potentially affecting the texture of the treats.
• Can I make these gluten-free? Ensure your marshmallow creme and chocolate chips are certified gluten-free. Rice Krispies cereal itself is gluten-free.
• How can I scale the recipe? You can easily double or triple this recipe by increasing the quantities of all ingredients proportionally.
• Can I freeze these treats? Yes, these treats freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful fusion of textures and flavors. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your creations with friends and family. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the flavor variations – the possibilities are endless! Enjoy!