If you have a sweet tooth and love that nostalgic crunch of classic treats, you are going to adore this Almond Joy Krispie Treats Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on the traditional rice krispie treat, loaded with toasted coconut, crunchy almonds, and a luscious layer of melted chocolate on top. Every bite is a perfect harmony of chewy, nutty, and chocolatey goodness that feels like a hug in dessert form. Whether you’re making dessert for a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a show-stopping snack that everyone will ask for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet totally essential in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each one plays a critical role—from the crispy rice cereal providing that classic crunch, to the coconut and almonds giving you irresistible bursts of nuttiness and chew, finished off with rich chocolate that ties it all together.
- Sweetened shredded coconut: Toasting it brings out a deeper flavor and adds that signature chewiness.
- Sliced almonds: These add a satisfying crunch and nutty aroma to every bite.
- Crispy rice cereal: The base of the treat, giving you that light, airy texture.
- Mini vegan marshmallows: These melt down to bind everything seamlessly while adding sweetness and chew.
- Butter: Helps achieve that smooth, luscious marshmallow mixture and adds richness.
- Pure coconut extract: Intensifies the tropical note, making the coconut flavor pop.
- Semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate: Melts into a perfectly smooth topping, balancing the sweetness with a hint of bitterness.
How to Make Almond Joy Krispie Treats Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Coconut and Almonds
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Spread your shredded coconut and sliced almonds on a baking sheet and toast for about 6 to 10 minutes. Watch carefully—the goal is a light golden color that hints at toasty, nutty goodness without burning. This step unlocks amazing flavors you won’t want to skip.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan and Mix the Dry Ingredients
While your coconut and almonds cool, grease a 9″x13″ cake pan generously with butter to prevent sticking. Set aside two rubber spatulas, also lightly greased to make spreading easier later. In a large bowl, combine your crispy rice cereal with most of the toasted coconut and almonds, keeping aside a bit of that mix for a crunchy topping. This mixture lays the foundation of texture for your Almond Joy Krispie Treats Recipe.
Step 3: Melt the Marshmallows with Butter and Coconut Extract
In a microwave-safe bowl, gently melt your mini vegan marshmallows and butter until puffed and smooth—this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Give it a good stir, then blend in the pure coconut extract, which will give your treats that vibrant tropical flavor, setting them apart from ordinary krispie squares.
Step 4: Combine Marshmallow Mixture with Dry Ingredients
Immediately and quickly, pour the marshmallow mixture into your cereal and nut mixture. Stir with your greased spatulas until everything is coated evenly. This step is where magic happens, transforming crunchy bits into a chewy, sticky delight.
Step 5: Press the Mixture and Add Chocolate Topping
Transfer your mixture to the prepared pan and press it down firmly and evenly with your spatulas. Then, melt your chocolate until smooth and pour it over the top, spreading it into an even layer. Finally, sprinkle the reserved coconut and almond mix over the chocolate before it sets—this adds a beautiful look and a tasty crunch that makes the dish uniquely memorable.
Step 6: Cool Completely Before Cutting
Allow the assembled Almond Joy Krispie Treats Recipe to cool at room temperature until the chocolate is set and treats are firm. This step is key because cutting while warm can cause the treats to crumble. Once cooled, slice into squares and get ready for the best snack time ever!
How to Serve Almond Joy Krispie Treats Recipe
Garnishes
These treats are already gorgeous, but a light dusting of extra toasted coconut or a drizzle of melted chocolate can amp up the presentation. If you want a fun twist, sprinkle lightly crushed almonds or even a pinch of sea salt on top—salty-sweet combos are always winners.
Side Dishes
Pair your Almond Joy Krispie Treats with a cold glass of almond milk or a cup of robust coffee to complement the coconut and chocolate flavors. For a party, consider serving alongside fresh fruit or vanilla ice cream to balance the chewy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing dessert bar, cut your treats into bite-sized squares and arrange them on decorative platters with mini toothpicks. Or layer broken pieces in small mason jars with whipped cream for an elegant dessert parfait twist that will surprise and delight your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep your Almond Joy Krispie Treats Recipe fresh by storing leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and chewy for up to 3 days, which makes them perfect for prepping in advance for a gathering or just having on hand for snacking.
Freezing
If you want to keep these treats longer, freezing works beautifully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
Reheat gently if you like your treats a little warm—just 10 seconds in the microwave will soften the chocolate slightly and enhance the chewy texture. Be careful not to overheat or microwave for too long, which can make the treats too sticky or lose their crunch.
FAQs
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of vegan marshmallows?
Absolutely! Regular marshmallows will work just fine if you’re not avoiding gelatin. The texture and taste will be very similar, though vegan marshmallows are a great option for those with dietary preferences.
Is there a way to make these treats gluten-free?
Yes! Just make sure to use a certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal. Most brands offer a gluten-free version that tastes just as great and keeps the texture spot on.
Can I swap out the chocolate for white chocolate?
You sure can. White chocolate will add a creamy sweetness that pairs beautifully with coconut and almonds. Just be sure to use good-quality chocolate for the best melting and flavor results.
How do I prevent the marshmallow from sticking to my spatula?
Greasing your spatulas with butter or a bit of oil before mixing helps prevent marshmallow stickiness. This makes stirring and pressing the mixture much easier and less messy.
What’s the best way to get clean edges when cutting the treats?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. For even cleaner lines, dip the knife in hot water, then dry before slicing. This prevents sticking and leaves you with beautifully cut squares.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Almond Joy Krispie Treats Recipe a try because it’s one of those joyful sweets that brings a smile with every bite. It’s simple to make, brilliantly flavorful, and perfect for sharing — or keeping all to yourself. Happy baking and even happier snacking!
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Almond Joy Krispie Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These Almond Joy Krispie Treats are a deliciously crunchy and chewy vegan dessert inspired by the classic candy bar. Toasted coconut and sliced almonds add a nutty flavor, while mini vegan marshmallows hold the crispy rice cereal together. A smooth layer of melted semi-sweet chocolate tops the treat, making it a perfect sweet snack or party dessert that is easy to prepare and sure to please.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 1/2 cups sliced almonds
- 8 cups crispy rice cereal
- 8 cups mini vegan marshmallows
- 1 teaspoon pure coconut extract
- 8 oz semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate
Wet Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Toast the Coconut and Almonds: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the shredded coconut and sliced almonds evenly on a baking sheet. Bake for 6-10 minutes until they turn lightly golden and aromatic. Stir halfway through to ensure even toasting. Remove from oven and set aside.
- Prepare the Pan and Mix Dry Ingredients: Grease a 9″x13″ cake pan thoroughly with butter to prevent sticking. Set aside two greased rubber spatulas for later use. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crispy rice cereal with most of the toasted coconut and almond mixture, reserving a small amount for topping the treats.
- Melt the Vegan Marshmallows and Butter: Place the mini vegan marshmallows and butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the marshmallows are melted and the mixture is puffy, approximately 2-3 minutes. Stir in the pure coconut extract for added flavor.
- Combine Marshmallow Mixture with Cereal: Immediately pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the cereal mixture. Use the greased spatulas to gently but thoroughly fold and mix everything together until the cereal and toasted ingredients are completely coated and sticky.
- Press Mixture into Pan and Add Chocolate Topping: Transfer the sticky mixture into the prepared cake pan and press it down evenly and firmly using the spatulas to create a compact layer. Melt the semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate using a microwave or double boiler until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed mixture and spread evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the reserved toasted coconut and almond mixture over the chocolate layer for garnish and extra texture.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the entire pan to cool completely at room temperature so the chocolate can set and the treats firm up. Once cooled, cut into 24 squares and serve.
Notes
- Use vegan marshmallows to keep this recipe plant-based.
- If you prefer, dark chocolate chips can be substituted for the block chocolate.
- Ensure the pan and spatulas are greased well to prevent sticking while mixing and transferring.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan for sturdy treats that hold their shape.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Adding a pinch of sea salt on top can enhance the chocolate and coconut flavors.
