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If you are searching for a nostalgic treat that brings a burst of coconutty, chocolaty, and nutty goodness in every bite, look no further than this Almond Joy Krispie Treats Recipe. These bars combine everything you love about the classic candy bar with the irresistible crunch and chew of crispy rice cereal, creating a dessert that’s both fun and indulgent. The perfect balance of toasted coconut and almonds folded into fluffy marshmallows makes this treat a joyful snack for any occasion, whether you’re feeding a crowd or sneaking a little sweetness just for yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients come together to create the perfect combination of flavors and textures. Each one plays a vital role in making your Almond Joy Krispie Treats Recipe truly special—from the crispy crunch of the cereal to the rich, melted chocolate topping.
- Sweetened shredded coconut: Adds natural sweetness and chewy texture along with that signature tropical flavor.
- Sliced almonds: Provide a delightful crunch and a subtle, nutty earthiness that complements the coconut beautifully.
- Crispy rice cereal: The backbone of the treat, offering lightness and that classic crispy texture.
- Mini vegan marshmallows: Create the gooey binding that holds everything together with a soft, fluffy mouthfeel.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps meld all the ingredients into a smooth, cohesive mixture.
- Pure coconut extract: Intensifies the coconut flavor, making each bite vibrant and full-bodied.
- Semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate: The luscious finishing touch that melts over the top, balancing sweetness with depth.
How to Make Almond Joy Krispie Treats Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Coconut and Almonds
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Spread the shredded coconut and sliced almonds evenly on a baking sheet and bake them for about 6 to 10 minutes. The goal is to achieve a light golden color that enhances their natural nutty and sweet flavors without burning. Toasting these ingredients intensifies their aroma and adds a wonderful crunchy contrast to the soft marshmallow base.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan and Mix Cereal with Toasted Nuts
While the coconut and almonds bake, grease a 9″x13″ cake pan with butter to prevent sticking later. In a large bowl, combine the crispy rice cereal with most of the toasted coconut-almond mixture—reserve a small handful for sprinkling on top. This mixture sets the stage for your treat’s texture and taste, so mixing them thoroughly ensures every bite has a perfect balance of crunch and chew.
Step 3: Melt Marshmallows and Butter with Coconut Extract
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the mini vegan marshmallows with butter. Heat them for 2 to 3 minutes until the marshmallows are fully melted and puffy. Stir in the pure coconut extract here to infuse every bit of the gooey mixture with a fragrant coconut essence. This step may feel a little indulgent, but it’s what transforms these treats from ordinary to extraordinary.
Step 4: Combine Melted Marshmallow Mixture with Cereal Blend
Act quickly to mix the melted marshmallow mixture with the cereal and toasted nut blend until everything is evenly coated. The warm marshmallow acts like glue, binding all the crispy and crunchy bits together. Using two greased rubber spatulas, fold gently but swiftly so the mixture doesn’t harden before it’s all combined.
Step 5: Press Into the Pan and Add Chocolate Topping
Press the mixture evenly into your prepared cake pan using the spatulas or your hands (greased to prevent sticking). The next star of the show is the melted chocolate. Spread the semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate over the top with a spatula, then sprinkle the reserved toasted coconut and almonds right over the glossy chocolate layer. This topping not only looks gorgeous but adds even more flavor complexity and texture.
Step 6: Let Cool Completely and Cut
Patience is key here. Allow your Almond Joy Krispie Treats Recipe to cool completely at room temperature so the chocolate layer can set firmly. Only then should you cut into squares, revealing the perfect bars that showcase every delicious layer and texture.
How to Serve Almond Joy Krispie Treats Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra-special touch, add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate after spreading it but before it sets. This will elevate the flavors and add a pleasant savory twist. Alternatively, a drizzle of melted white chocolate can create a beautiful visual effect and a second dimension of sweetness.
Side Dishes
These treats pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a cool, creamy contrast. They also work beautifully alongside fresh berries, which add a juicy freshness to balance the richness of the chocolate and marshmallow. A cup of hot coffee or rich hot cocoa elevates the experience further, amplifying those cozy, comforting vibes.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving these at a party, cut them into bite-sized mini squares and arrange them on a festive platter with tropical-themed decor. Wrapping individual pieces in colorful parchment paper makes perfect take-home treats for guests. For a layered dessert, crumble some Almond Joy Krispie Treats Recipe over bowls of pudding or parfaits for a fun twist on texture and crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled and cut, store your Almond Joy Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and maintain their delightful texture for up to a week, making them great for prepping ahead or for enjoying throughout the week as a sweet snack or dessert.
Freezing
To keep them longer, you can freeze the treats by wrapping individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. This helps preserve their freshness and flavor for up to 3 months. Whenever you’re ready, simply thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before enjoying.
Reheating
While these treats are best enjoyed at room temperature or chilled, if you prefer a warm, melty texture, gently microwave a square for about 10-15 seconds. This softens the chocolate and marshmallow slightly, delivering a gooey, comforting bite reminiscent of freshly made Krispie treats.
FAQs
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of vegan ones?
Absolutely! Regular marshmallows work just as well if you don’t require a vegan option. They will provide the same gooey texture and sweetness that binds the treat together.
Is it necessary to toast the coconut and almonds?
Toasting enhances flavor and crunch by bringing out the natural oils and aromas in the coconut and almonds. While you can skip this step, the treats will have less depth in taste and a softer texture.
Can I substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative?
Yes, if you want to keep this recipe dairy-free or vegan, you can use a plant-based butter substitute. Just make sure it melts smoothly and has a neutral flavor so it doesn’t overpower the other ingredients.
What type of chocolate is best for this recipe?
Semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate works perfectly because it balances the sweetness of the marshmallows and coconut without being too sugary. You can also experiment with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
How thick should I press the mixture into the pan?
Press the mixture evenly so it’s about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. This thickness ensures the treats hold together well while providing the perfect ratio of crunchy cereal to chewy marshmallow and luscious chocolate.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so heartwarming about making and sharing a batch of Almond Joy Krispie Treats Recipe. It’s a simple way to bring a little joy and sunshine to your day or brighten up any gathering. Once you try this recipe, it’s hard not to go back for seconds (and thirds!). Grab those ingredients, get toasting, melting, and mixing, and soon you’ll have a glorious batch of treats that feel like a hug wrapped in chocolate, coconut, and crunch.
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Almond Joy Krispie Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Almond Joy Krispie Treats are a delightful twist on the classic rice crispy treat, featuring toasted coconut and almonds for a crunchy texture, melted vegan marshmallows for gooey sweetness, and a rich drizzle of semi-sweet chocolate to finish. These vegan-friendly, no-bake treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with a tropical flair.
Ingredients
Toasted Coconut and Almonds
- 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 1/2 cups sliced almonds
Main Mixture
- 8 cups crispy rice cereal
- 8 cups mini vegan marshmallows
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon pure coconut extract
Topping
- 8 oz semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate
Instructions
- Toast Coconut and Almonds: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spread the shredded coconut and sliced almonds evenly on a baking sheet and bake them for 6-10 minutes until they turn lightly golden and fragrant. Remove from the oven and set aside some of the mixture for topping later.
- Prepare Pan and Combine Dry Ingredients: Grease a 9″x13″ cake pan with butter. In a large bowl, mix the crispy rice cereal with the majority of the toasted coconut-almond mixture, reserving a small portion for sprinkling on top.
- Melt Marshmallows and Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the mini vegan marshmallows and butter together in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes puffed and gooey. Stir in the pure coconut extract for added flavor.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Quickly pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the cereal and coconut-almond blend. Stir thoroughly to coat the rice cereal evenly before the mixture sets.
- Press into Pan and Add Chocolate: Press the sticky mixture evenly into the prepared pan using the greased rubber spatulas. Melt the semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate and drizzle it over the top, spreading it evenly. Finally, sprinkle the reserved toasted coconut-almond mixture over the chocolate for a crunchy garnish.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the layered treat to cool completely at room temperature until the chocolate has hardened. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Using mini vegan marshmallows keeps this dessert dairy-free and vegan-friendly.
- To make cutting easier, lightly grease your knife or warm it before slicing the treats.
- For a nut-free option, substitute sliced almonds with additional toasted coconut or chopped seeds.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for extended freshness.
- Feel free to customize with dark chocolate or milk chocolate based on preference.
