Caramel Crispy Squares
Sweet and crunchy caramel crispy squares combine crispy rice cereal with rich caramel and marshmallows, making a delightful treat perfect for parties, snacks, or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan with butter and set aside.
- Place cereal in a large bowl and set aside.
- Unwrap caramels and place them in a 1-quart glass dish.
- Add marshmallows, shortening, and water to the dish, stirring after each minute.
- Microwave on High for 4 minutes, or until the caramels are melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the caramel mixture. If you want a more textured square, swap out some crispy rice cereal for chopped nuts or pretzels. You can also use flavored marshmallows for a fun twist. Remember, the key to achieving the perfect gooeyness is to not overheat the caramel mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These Caramel Crispy Squares are a delightful treat on their own but can also be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. They pair wonderfully with coffee or hot chocolate, making them a perfect snack for a cozy night in. For a complete dessert experience, consider serving them with a side of fresh fruit.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Caramel Crispy Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their texture, avoid refrigerating them, as this can make them too hard. If you need to reheat, use the microwave in short bursts to soften them slightly without melting.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caramel Crispy Squares contains roughly 728 calories, with 8g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (37% of the Daily Value), calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 551mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cereal?
Yes, you can substitute crispy rice cereal with other cereals like Cornflakes or even granola for a different texture and flavor. Just ensure the cereal you choose can hold up to the sticky caramel mixture.
How can I make these squares less sticky?
To reduce stickiness, you can lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray when pressing the mixture into the pan. Additionally, allowing the squares to cool completely before cutting them can help minimize stickiness.
Can I add mix-ins to the caramel mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in mini chocolate chips, crushed candy bars, or dried fruits for added flavor and texture. Just be cautious not to overload the mixture, as it needs to hold together well for cutting into squares.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).