As summer starts to wind down and the first signs of fall appear, we bid farewell to the vibrant flavors of the season. However, with freeze-dried fruits, we can continue enjoying those delightful summer tastes all year round. In this blog post, we'll share a delicious recipe for Strawberry Rice Crispy Treats using freeze-dried strawberries, the perfect way to savor the last bits of summer. These treats not only make a delightful dessert but also serve as a fantastic snack for kids as they embark on another school year. We'll also explore some tips and tricks to make these treats even more delightful and ways to get freeze-dried fruits without breaking the bank.
Why Freeze-Dried Fruit?
Freeze-dried fruit is a fantastic way to preserve the intense flavors of fresh fruits without any added sugars or preservatives. By removing water content, the fruits retain their natural sweetness, colors, and nutrients. With freeze-dried strawberries, you get the essence of summer in every bite, no matter the time of year. Plus, they offer a convenient way to add fruity goodness to various dishes, including desserts like our Strawberry Rice Crispy Treats.
Getting Freeze-Dried Fruit on a Budget
Although freeze-dried fruits can be expensive, there are ways to enjoy them without spending a fortune. One option is to check your local Walmart, which often offers a wide variety of freeze-dried fruits at more affordable prices. Another money-saving alternative is to visit your nearby dollar store. While the selection might vary, strawberry and apple freeze-dried fruits are generally found as staples. So, go ahead and stock up on these delightful treats without burning a hole in your pocket.
The Flavorful Toppings
For an extra touch of indulgence, we'll be using Hershey's cream cheese flavored chocolate chips as a delightful topping for our Strawberry Rice Crispy Treats. These chips add a creamy and tangy twist that complements the sweet strawberry flavors perfectly. If you can't find them, don't worry! White chocolate chips make for an excellent substitute.
Tips and Tricks:
Use mini marshmallows for a more even melting process in the pot, ensuring a smooth and gooey texture.
To add a delightful surprise, throw in an extra handful of mini marshmallows after mixing in the rice krispy cereal. This will give you delightful pockets of unmelted marshmallows throughout the treats.
For easy drizzling of the cream cheese chips, use a piping bag or a ziplock bag with the corner cut off.
When crushing the freeze-dried strawberries, place them in a ziplock bag and use the back of a wooden spoon to crush them. Aim for a mixture of fine powder and larger pieces to add texture to the treats.
Strawberry Rice Crispy Treats with Cream Cheese Chips:
Ingredients:
6 cups rice krispy cereal
390g mini marshmallows (this will leave about a handful or so if you get a 16oz bag)
1/4 cup butter
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 oz freeze-dried strawberries (crushed) (This will be about 2 bags)
1/4 cup Hershey's cream cheese flavored chocolate chips (or white chocolate chips)
Instructions:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat, stirring constantly. Then add the marshmallows and melt until smooth and creamy.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla and rice crispy cereal.
Add the freeze dried strawberries and whole mini marshmallows to the mixture, stirring until well combined.
Press the mixture into a greased 9x9 inch baking dish and let it cool for a few minutes. (Use baking spray on your spatula or hands to press into the baking dish)
Meanwhile, melt the cream cheese flavored chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 10-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
Drizzle the melted cream cheese chips over the cooled treats using a piping bag or ziplock bag with the corner cut off.
Allow the treats to set completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Conclusion: As summer draws to a close, these Strawberry Rice Crispy Treats with freeze-dried strawberries and cream cheese chips are a delightful way to say goodbye to the season. With the rich flavors of strawberries and the creamy indulgence of the chips, these treats will bring the essence of summer to every bite. By following our budget-friendly tips and tricks, you can enjoy these delightful goodies all year round without breaking the bank. So, whip up a batch of these scrumptious treats and savor the taste of summer in every mouthwatering bite!
If you've been whipping up some of these treats in your kitchen, I'd love to see your masterpieces! Tag me at @ds_bakeshopaz on Instagram, so I can show some love to your scrumptious creations. 🎉
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