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Little Debbie Star Crunch Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 114 reviews

This Little Debbie Star Crunch copycat recipe delivers a rich, chocolate-chocolatey treat packed with chewy caramel, marshmallows, and crispy Rice Krispies. Combining smooth melted caramel and cocoa married with a touch of espresso for depth, these no-bake bars offer an indulgent snack or dessert that sets quickly in the fridge.

Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

  • ½ cup salted butter
  • 14 oz. sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ teaspoon espresso powder
  • 5 cups Rice Krispy cereal

Mix-ins

  • 20 soft caramels (such as Werther’s)
  • 5 ½ cups mini marshmallows (about 1 10 oz. bag)

Instructions

  1. Melt the base mixture: In a large pot over medium-low heat, combine the salted butter, unsweetened cocoa powder, and espresso powder. Stir occasionally until the butter melts completely and the mixture is smooth.
  2. Add sweetened condensed milk: Whisk in the sweetened condensed milk until it is fully incorporated and the mixture is uniform.
  3. Melt the caramels: Add the soft caramel candies to the pot and stir constantly, ensuring they melt completely into the chocolate mixture to achieve a smooth consistency.
  4. Incorporate marshmallows: Add the mini marshmallows and continue stirring until they melt fully and blend smoothly into the mixture.
  5. Finish the mixture and combine with cereal: Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract. Then fold in the Rice Krispy cereal carefully until it is evenly coated with the chocolate-caramel marshmallow mixture.
  6. Shape the treats: Line two baking pans with parchment paper. Using a large cookie scoop, portion the mixture onto the parchment paper, forming individual cookies or bars.
  7. Chill until set: Place the pans in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour to allow the treats to firm up.
  8. Serve and store: Enjoy the Star Crunch treats immediately or store them in an airtight container for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Notes

  • Espresso powder enhances the depth of chocolate flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
  • If caramels are very firm, microwave briefly before adding to ease melting.
  • These bars are best eaten within three days to maintain freshness and texture.
  • Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
  • Adjust marshmallow quantity slightly for more or less chewiness.

Keywords: Little Debbie Star Crunch, copycat recipe, chocolate caramel bars, no-bake treats, Rice Krispy treats, marshmallow dessert

Find it online: https://jedentaglecker.com/little-debbie-star-crunch-recipe/