Sweet and Salty Chocolate Tahini Rice Krispie Treats

Incredible Sweet and Salty Chocolate Tahini Rice Krispie Treats are the perfect combination of flavors that everyone will love. These delightful treats are not only easy to make but also naturally sweetened with maple syrup, making them a healthier option for dessert lovers. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a fun treat for kids, or simply craving something sweet, these rice krispie treats bring together the unique taste of tahini and chocolate with a satisfying crunch from pretzels.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 12 minutes of total time, you can whip up these delicious treats in no time.
• Naturally Sweetened: Made with pure maple syrup instead of refined sugars, they offer a healthier sweet alternative.
• Vegan and Gluten-Free: Perfect for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy them.
• Flavorful Twist: Combining sweet and salty flavors creates a unique snack that stands out from traditional rice krispie treats.
• Customizable Topping: Feel free to experiment with different toppings or add-ins for a personal touch!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your sweet and salty chocolate tahini rice krispie treats, gather your tools. Using the right equipment will ensure your treats turn out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Parchment paper
• Medium pot
• Wooden spoon
• Rubber spatula
• Microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes it easy to lift out your treats after chilling.
• Medium pot: Ideal for melting ingredients evenly without burning.
• Rubber spatula: Helps to press down the mixture firmly into the pan for even texture.

Ingredients

Incredible sweet and salty chocolate tahini rice krispie treats naturally sweetened with maple syrup, topped with a luscious dark chocolate coating, and studded with crunchy pretzels. A fun twist on traditional rice krispie treats that can easily be made vegan and gluten-free! The perfect treat kiddos and adults will LOVE.

For the Base

• ¾ cup (173g) tahini
• ⅓ cup (104g) pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon virgin coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 ½-3 cups (93g) crispy brown rice cereal

For the Topping

• 1 cup (180 grams) dark (or semi-sweet) chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon virgin coconut oil
• 1 heaping cup (67g) pretzel twists, slightly broken
• 1-2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
• Fancy sea salt (I like Maldon), for sprinkling on top

How to Make Sweet and Salty Chocolate Tahini Rice Krispie Treats

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Base

In a medium pot, combine the tahini, maple syrup, coconut oil, and salt over medium-low heat.
* Cook while stirring frequently with a wooden spoon until smooth and warm (about 1-2 minutes).
* Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
* Add crispy brown rice cereal gradually until fully coated.
* Pour into the prepared pan; use a rubber spatula to press down firmly.

Step 3: Make the Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil.
* Microwave in high intervals of 30 seconds, stirring between each interval until melted and smooth.
* Pour this mixture over the pressed cereal base; tilt the pan to spread evenly.

Step 4: Add Pretzels and Sesame Seeds

Evenly distribute pretzel pieces over the melted chocolate topping.
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Place in the fridge until completely cool and hardened (at least 1 hour). Alternatively, freeze for 30-45 minutes.
Once set, sprinkle sea salt on top before cutting into 16 bars. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week or freeze for longer storage. If frozen, allow sitting at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Sweet and Salty Chocolate Tahini Rice Krispie Treats

Sweet and Salty Chocolate Tahini Rice Krispie Treats make for an exciting dessert or snack that appeals to both kids and adults. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy these delightful treats.

For a Fun Snack

• On-the-go: Wrap individual bars in parchment paper for a quick snack that’s easy to take along.
• Lunchbox treat: Pack a bar in your child’s lunchbox for a sweet surprise they will adore.

With a Dipping Sauce

• Chocolate drizzle: Melt extra dark chocolate and drizzle over the bars for added indulgence.
• Nut butter dip: Serve with a side of almond or peanut butter for dipping.

As a Party Platter

• Dessert board: Cut bars into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter with fresh fruit, nuts, and other sweets.
• Ice cream topping: Crumble over vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Perfect Sweet and Salty Chocolate Tahini Rice Krispie Treats

To ensure your Sweet and Salty Chocolate Tahini Rice Krispie Treats turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Boldly measure ingredients: Accurate measuring is key to achieving the right texture. Use a kitchen scale if possible.
• Boldly select quality chocolate: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate chips for the best flavor in your topping.
• Boldly press down firmly: When packing the base into the pan, press down firmly to create a solid structure that holds together well.
• Boldly chill properly: Allow enough time in the fridge or freezer to let the chocolate set completely before cutting into bars.
• Boldly experiment with add-ins: Feel free to add nuts, seeds, or dried fruits into the mixture for extra texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet and Salty Chocolate Tahini Rice Krispie Treats

These Sweet and Salty Chocolate Tahini Rice Krispie Treats pair wonderfully with several side dishes. Here are some tasty options that complement their flavors nicely.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
2. Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a satisfying contrast in texture.
3. Nutty Granola Bars: Offer additional crunch with homemade or store-bought granola bars alongside your treats.
4. Savory Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can enhance the sweet-salty profile beautifully; try pairing with mild cheeses like brie.
5. Herbed Salad Greens: A light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing palate cleanser.
6. Smoothies: Serve smoothies made with bananas, spinach, and almond milk for a nutritious drink option that pairs well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sweet and Salty Chocolate Tahini Rice Krispie Treats can be a fun experience, but it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using the wrong type of tahini: Make sure to use smooth tahini instead of chunky. This ensures a creamy texture that coats the rice cereal evenly.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy, especially with tahini and maple syrup, to achieve the right consistency.
• Skipping the chilling step: Allowing your treats to chill in the fridge or freezer helps the chocolate harden properly. Skipping this step can result in messy bars that fall apart.
• Overheating the chocolate: When melting chocolate, do it slowly in intervals. Overheating can cause it to seize up, making it difficult to spread over your treats.
• Neglecting toppings: Don’t forget about pretzels and sesame seeds! They add crunch and flavor, enhancing your treats’ overall experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Keep the bars separated with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Freezing Sweet and Salty Chocolate Tahini Rice Krispie Treats

• Freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
• Wrap each bar individually for easy access when you want a treat.

Reheating Sweet and Salty Chocolate Tahini Rice Krispie Treats

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for 5-10 minutes until slightly soft.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds at a time until just warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Sweet and Salty Chocolate Tahini Rice Krispie Treats different?

These treats combine traditional rice krispie ingredients with tahini and maple syrup, providing a unique sweet and salty flavor profile that stands out from classic versions.

Can I make these treats vegan?

Yes! All ingredients used in this recipe are plant-based, making these bars suitable for vegans looking for a delicious dessert option.

How can I customize my Sweet and Salty Chocolate Tahini Rice Krispie Treats?

Feel free to add different toppings like nuts, seeds, or dried fruit. You can also experiment with flavored chocolate or alternative sweeteners if desired.

What should I do if my mixture is too dry?

If your mixture seems dry when mixing in the crispy rice cereal, try adding a little more maple syrup or tahini until you achieve the desired consistency for easy pressing into the pan.

How long does it take for these treats to set?

Allow at least 1 hour in the fridge or 30-45 minutes in the freezer for your bars to cool and set properly before cutting them into squares.

Final Thoughts

These Sweet and Salty Chocolate Tahini Rice Krispie Treats are not only delicious but also versatile. With their delightful combination of flavors and textures, they are perfect for both kids and adults alike. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or mix-ins! Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!