Festive Rice Krispies® Squares

Never know what to give as a hostess gift this holiday season? These Rice Krispies® squares are sure to please! Of course, I’ve adapted this classic to make it more festive in my own way.

In keeping with the holiday theme, I’ve used pistachio butter, but feel free to substitute it with peanut, almond or other butter. The addition of strawberries adds a pretty, colorful touch to the dessert!

Portions: 9 squares

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cooling time: 60 minutes

Cooking time: 2 minutes

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup (75 ml) natural pistachio butter
• 1/3 cup (75 ml) maple syrup
• 3 cups (750 ml) puffed brown rice (or Rice Krispies® rice cereal, or even puffed quinoa)
• ½ cup (125 ml) dehydrated strawberries* (save a few for garnish)
• 1/3 cup (75 ml) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• A few pistachios, chopped (optional, for garnish)

* Dehydrated strawberries can usually be found in the Organic or Natural Products section of the grocery store, in the snacks for young children section (along with fruit purees), or in the dried fruit section. They’re also easy to find online.

Preparation

1. Over very low heat, blend pistachio butter and maple syrup until well combined, about 2 minutes.
2. In a bowl, combine puffed rice and dehydrated strawberries. Add the pistachio-maple syrup mixture and stir until the puffed rice is well covered.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×9-inch square tin, and using a spoon, press the mixture down to make it as flat as possible.
4. Meanwhile, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave, about ten seconds at a time. Spread the chocolate (as best you can!) over the Rice Krispies® mixture.
5. Sprinkle remaining strawberries and crushed pistachios on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before cutting into squares!

Here are some other great hostess gift ideas :

• Festive Raspberry and Cranberry Tarts
• Coconut Orange Energy Balls

Nutritional values per square: 136 calories | 7g fat |17g carbohydrates | 2g fiber | 3g protein

Festive Rice Krispies® Squares is a post from Nautilus Plus. The Nautilus Plus blog aims to help people in their journey to fitness through articles on training, nutrition, motivation, exercise and healthy recipes.
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