Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray. Alternatively, you can line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to easily lift the treats out later.
- In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. It's important to keep the heat low to prevent the butter from burning.1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Once the butter is melted, add the entire package of mini marshmallows to the saucepan. Stir constantly until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth. Be patient and keep stirring to ensure an even melt.1 package mini marshmallows
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder until it's fully combined with the melted marshmallow mixture. Next, stir in the vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor. The mixture should now be a rich, glossy chocolate color.2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pour the cocoa-flavored puffed rice cereal into the saucepan with the marshmallow mixture. Gently stir everything together until the cereal is evenly coated. Work relatively quickly at this stage as the mixture can start to firm up.6 cups cocoa-flavored puffed rice cereal
- Transfer the coated cereal mixture into the prepared 9x13 inch baking pan. Using a buttered spatula or your hands (lightly greased or dampened with water to prevent sticking), gently press the mixture into an even layer in the pan. Avoid pressing too hard, as this can make the treats tough; a gentle spread is all you need.
- If you’re feeling festive, now is the time to add your personal touch. Melt white chocolate melting wafers according to package directions and drizzle over the treats, or pipe decorative lines and football shapes. You can also add sprinkles in your favorite team's colors or football-themed edible decorations while the chocolate is still wet.White chocolate melting wafers, Sprinkles in team colors or football-themed decorations
- Allow the Football Cocoa Rice Crispy Treats to cool and set completely at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This will help them firm up properly.
- Once set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire slab out of the pan. Cut into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife. Enjoy your delicious, homemade Football Cocoa Rice Crispy Treats!
Notes
Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Avoid refrigerating. Can be frozen for up to 1 month.
