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Coconut Tahini Crispy Rice Treats

5.0

(2)

Coconut tahini rice crispy treats.
Photo by Beatriz da Costa

A play on the familiar crispy rice treats, this sweet and chewy dessert was inspired by a cup of tahini-tinged hot chocolate, which opened my eyes to the possibilities of using tahini in sweet applications. These rice puffs have a complex flavor with savory, nutty undertones. The honey and coconut extract balance beautifully with the rich, creamy sesame flavors of the tahini. Make sure to use good-quality coconut flakes. Many cultures have similar puffed rice desserts, and, like the classic American crispy rice treats, these tahini coconut rice puffs are a babysitter’s favorite, an easy whenever-dessert.

This recipe was excerpted from 'The Simple Art of Rice' by  JJ Johnson with Danica Novgorodoff. Buy the full book on Amazon.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes 9 squares

Ingredients

Softened butter for the pan
3¼ cups crispy brown rice cereal
½ cup tahini
½ cup honey
1 tsp. coconut extract
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 tsp. kosher salt (preferably Diamond Crystal)
½ cup large unsweetened coconut flakes

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Butter a 9-inch square baking pan; set aside.

    Step 2

    Pour the rice cereal into a large bowl.

    Step 3

    Combine the tahini, honey, coconut extract, vanilla extract, and salt in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture has thinned and is well blended.

    Step 4

    Pour the tahini mixture over the cereal, add the coconut flakes, and mix well to thoroughly combine.

    Step 5

    Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it into an even layer. Place in the refrigerator to set for at least 30 minutes, uncovered.

    Step 6

    Cut into 9 squares and serve.

An image of the cookbook cover of "The Simple Art of Rice"
Recipe adapted from The Simple Art of Rice by JJ Johnson (Flatiron Books). Copyright © 2023. Buy it on Amazon or Bookshop.
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