Classic Chewy Crispy Squares (Print Version)

Chewy, crispy squares of melted marshmallows and puffed rice with optional chocolate topping.

# What You'll Need:

→ Base

01 - 6 cups puffed rice cereal (e.g., Rice Krispies)
02 - 4 cups mini marshmallows
03 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Optional Chocolate Topping

04 - 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

# Directions:

01 - Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
02 - In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add mini marshmallows and stir constantly until fully melted and smooth.
03 - Remove from heat. Immediately add puffed rice cereal and gently fold to coat evenly.
04 - Quickly transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Using a buttered spatula or wax paper, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan.
05 - Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Spread evenly over the pressed cereal mixture.
06 - Let cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or until set.
07 - Cut into 16 squares and serve.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It takes less time than waiting for the oven to preheat, and kids can help with almost every step.
  • The texture is exactly what you remember: chewy, crispy, and impossibly satisfying.
  • You can dress it up with chocolate or keep it pure and simple, and either way, it disappears fast.
02 -
  • If you overheat the marshmallows, they turn tough and chewy instead of soft and sticky; low heat is your best friend here.
  • Pressing too hard can make the squares dense; a firm but gentle touch keeps them light and crispy.
  • Don't wait too long to press the mixture into the pan, or it will set up in the pot and you'll be wrestling with it.
03 -
  • Butter your hands or your spatula before pressing the mixture; it prevents everything from sticking to you instead of the pan.
  • If you want thicker squares, use an 8x8-inch pan instead, but know they'll be chewier and denser.
  • For a grown-up twist, sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt over the chocolate topping before it sets.
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