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This chewy, tropical twist on a classic Rice Krispy Treat has become my go-to dessert for potlucks and family gatherings. The combination of toasted coconut and extra marshmallows creates an irresistible texture that elevates these treats beyond the ordinary.
I first made these during a beach-themed party where I needed a quick dessert. The coconut version was such a hit that guests were asking for the recipe before they even finished their first piece.
Ingredients
- Butter creates a rich base and prevents sticking. Use unsalted for better control of flavor
- Miniature marshmallows melt more evenly than regular size. Reserve some unmelted for amazing texture pockets
- Crisp rice cereal provides the classic crunch. Name brand works best for consistent results
- Sweetened shredded coconut adds tropical flavor. Toast half of it beforehand for deeper flavor
- Extra coconut for topping gives visual appeal and reinforces the coconut flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Pan
- Line a 9x13 baking pan with parchment paper making sure to leave overhang for easy removal. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup simple.
- Melt The Base
- In a large pot over medium heat melt the butter completely until it starts to foam slightly but not brown. Add 8 cups of mini marshmallows and stir constantly with a wooden spoon until completely melted with no lumps remaining about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Mix The Ingredients
- Remove pot from heat immediately to prevent marshmallows from scorching. Working quickly add all the rice cereal and fold gently with a buttered spatula until cereal is evenly coated with marshmallow mixture. When almost combined fold in the 2 cups of reserved marshmallows and 1½ cups coconut with just a few strokes to maintain those delicious pockets of goodness.
- Form The Treats
- Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan and spread it out with a lightly buttered spatula. Use a gentle touch pressing just enough to fill the corners without compacting the mixture. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup coconut over the top and press very lightly to adhere.
- Cool And Slice
- Allow treats to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For cleaner cuts use a knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between slices. Cut into squares or rectangles depending on your serving preference.
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The secret to the incredible texture is definitely those extra unmelted marshmallows. I discovered this trick accidentally when I ran out of time to melt all my marshmallows once and the result was so amazing I never went back to the standard recipe.
Storage Tips
These treats will stay fresh for up to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature. Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking. For longer storage they can be frozen for up to 3 months wrapped individually in plastic wrap then placed in a freezer bag. Let thaw completely at room temperature before enjoying.
Delicious Variations
The coconut base recipe can be customized with additional mix ins for different flavor combinations. Try adding a half cup of toasted macadamia nuts for extra crunch or white chocolate chips for another level of sweetness. For chocolate lovers drizzle the finished treats with melted dark chocolate after cooling. During the holidays a teaspoon of coconut extract or rum extract adds festive flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These treats make an excellent base for ice cream sandwiches especially with coconut or vanilla ice cream. For a special dessert presentation cut them into small squares and serve on a platter with fresh berries and mint leaves. They also work beautifully on dessert charcuterie boards alongside other tropical themed treats like dried pineapple or white chocolate covered mango.
Recipe Q&A
- → Why shouldn't I press the rice krispy mixture too firmly into the pan?
Pressing too firmly compacts the mixture, creating overly dense treats that can be hard rather than chewy. Light pressure ensures the perfect soft, stretchy texture that won't scratch the roof of your mouth while still holding together nicely.
- → What's the purpose of adding unmelted marshmallows to the mixture?
The additional 2 cups of unmelted marshmallows create pockets of gooey goodness throughout the treats. They provide extra stretch, chewiness, and that delightful marshmallow pull when you bite into them, elevating the texture beyond standard versions.
- → How long do these coconut treats stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they remain fresh and delicious for several days. The moisture from the marshmallows and coconut helps maintain their soft texture longer than plain versions.
- → Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?
Yes, but it will alter the flavor profile. Unsweetened coconut provides the tropical essence with less sweetness. You might consider toasting unsweetened coconut first to enhance its flavor, as sweetened coconut naturally has more pronounced taste.
- → Why line the pan with parchment paper instead of just greasing it?
Parchment paper prevents sticking completely and allows for easy removal of the entire batch at once. This makes cutting cleaner and prevents the frustration of treats stubbornly adhering to the pan, even when greased.
- → Can I add other ingredients besides coconut?
Absolutely! White chocolate chips, macadamia nuts, dried pineapple pieces, or a drizzle of caramel complement the coconut beautifully. Just be careful not to add ingredients that contain much moisture, as this can affect the setting process.