Irresistible Toasted Coconut Cream Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Posted on November 8, 2025

The smell of toasted coconut wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone stop in their tracks. Combine that nutty, caramel-like aroma with the creamy sweetness of coconut cream, and you’ve got yourself a show-stopping dessert. These Toasted Coconut Cream Rice Krispie Treats are not your average marshmallow squares—they’re a tropical twist on the classic treat, and honestly, they might just become your new obsession.

I first stumbled upon this idea during a family barbecue when someone brought coconut-flavored Rice Krispie Treats that lacked the punch I was hoping for. So, I took it upon myself to create a version that truly highlights the rich, tropical flavors of coconut. After several tasty experiments, this recipe was born, and trust me, it’s been a crowd favorite ever since.

Whether you’re a coconut lover or just someone looking for a unique spin on a classic dessert, these treats are perfection. They’re soft, chewy, loaded with toasted coconut goodness, and have just the right amount of creaminess to keep you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: From start to finish, these treats take just 20 minutes to make—perfect for a last-minute dessert or snack.
Minimal Ingredients: You probably already have most of these pantry staples, and the others are easy to find.
A Tropical Twist: The toasted coconut and coconut cream add a unique flavor that sets this recipe apart from traditional Rice Krispie Treats.
Kid-Friendly: Kids love the sweet and crunchy texture, while adults appreciate the elevated flavor profile.
Perfect for Any Occasion: These are great for potlucks, birthday parties, or just when you’re craving a quick treat.
Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of toasted coconut, creamy marshmallows, and crispy rice cereal is pure bliss.

What makes these treats stand out is the balance of flavors. The sweetness of the marshmallows pairs beautifully with the nutty richness of toasted coconut, while the coconut cream adds a luxurious texture. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent but is so easy to whip up.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients to create an irresistible dessert. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Rice Krispies cereal: The classic base for any Rice Krispie Treats recipe.
Mini marshmallows: These melt smoothly and bind the cereal together. Save a handful for mixing in at the end.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create that perfect chewy texture.
Coconut cream: The secret ingredient that makes these treats ultra-creamy and flavorful.
Sweetened shredded coconut: Toasted to golden perfection for a nutty, caramel-like flavor boost.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.

If you need substitutions, no problem! You can use regular marshmallows instead of mini ones, or swap out sweetened shredded coconut for unsweetened if you prefer a less sweet version. For a dairy-free option, use plant-based butter and coconut milk instead of coconut cream.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need fancy tools to make these treats, which is great for beginner bakers. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large pot: For melting the butter and marshmallows.
Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula: Ideal for mixing the sticky marshmallow mixture.
Baking sheet: For toasting the shredded coconut.
9×13-inch pan: To shape and cool the treats.
Parchment paper: Makes it easier to remove the treats from the pan.

If you don’t have a 9×13-inch pan, you can use any similar-sized dish. Just be sure to line it with parchment paper for easy removal. And if you don’t have a baking sheet for toasting the coconut, a clean skillet will work just fine.

Detailed Preparation Method

Prepare your pan: Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it with butter or nonstick spray.
Toast the coconut: Spread the shredded coconut evenly on a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Set aside to cool.
Melt the butter: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, reduce the heat to low.
Add marshmallows: Pour the mini marshmallows into the pot and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth. Be patient—low heat prevents scorching.
Incorporate coconut cream: Stir in the coconut cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is well combined.
Add cereal: Remove the pot from heat and gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, one cup at a time, until evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
Mix in toasted coconut: Reserve a small handful for garnish, then add the rest of the toasted coconut to the pot, stirring to distribute it evenly.
Transfer to pan: Press the mixture into the prepared pan using a spatula or your hands (grease them lightly to avoid sticking).
Cool and garnish: Let the treats cool completely at room temperature, then sprinkle the reserved toasted coconut on top.
Slice and serve: Once cooled, slice into squares and enjoy!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Making these treats is simple, but a few tips can ensure perfection:

Use low heat: When melting the marshmallows, keep the heat low to avoid scorching or uneven melting.
Don’t overmix: Stir the cereal gently to prevent crushing it and losing the crispy texture.
Toast the coconut evenly: Keep an eye on the coconut while toasting—it can burn quickly once it starts to brown.
Grease your tools: Lightly grease your spatula and hands to make shaping the treats easier.
Cool completely: Let the treats cool fully before slicing to ensure clean, even cuts.

One trick I learned through trial and error: if you want extra gooey treats, save a handful of marshmallows and mix them in right before pressing the mixture into the pan. They create pockets of melty goodness!

Variations & Adaptations

Want to mix things up? Here are some fun variations:

Chocolate Coconut Treats: Drizzle melted semi-sweet chocolate over the cooled treats for a decadent twist.
Gluten-Free Version: Use certified gluten-free rice cereal and double-check all other ingredients for gluten traces.
Nutty Coconut Treats: Add chopped toasted almonds or cashews for extra crunch and flavor.
Seasonal Adaptation: Mix in dried cranberries or chopped dried pineapple for a festive touch.

Personally, I love adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top—it creates a perfect sweet-and-salty combo that’s irresistible.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These treats are best served at room temperature, and they’re perfect for sharing. Arrange them on a platter with extra toasted coconut sprinkled around for a pretty presentation.

Storage Tips:

Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: If you like warm treats, microwave a square for 5-10 seconds to soften it.

Pro tip: The flavors deepen after a day, so if you can resist eating them all immediately, they’re even better the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick look at the nutrition per serving (approximate, based on 16 squares):

Calories: 140
Fat: 6g
Sugar: 12g
Carbohydrates: 20g

The toasted coconut provides healthy fats, while the coconut cream is rich in nutrients like manganese and medium-chain triglycerides. Plus, these treats are naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for dairy-free diets.

Conclusion

These Toasted Coconut Cream Rice Krispie Treats are the kind of dessert that makes you smile after every bite. They’re easy to make, impossible to resist, and perfect for customizing to suit your taste. Whether you’re a coconut lover or just looking for a creative twist on a classic treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Try them out, share them with loved ones, and let me know what you think in the comments below! I’d love to hear how you adapted them or if you added your own creative flair. Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I use coconut milk instead of coconut cream?

Yes, but the texture will be slightly less creamy. Coconut cream provides a richer consistency.

How do I toast coconut without an oven?

You can toast shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Can I make these treats dairy-free?

Absolutely! Just use plant-based butter and ensure your marshmallows are vegan-friendly.

What’s the best way to cut Rice Krispie Treats?

Use a sharp knife greased with butter or nonstick spray for clean cuts. Let the treats cool completely first.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Yes! Try adding mini chocolate chips, dried fruit, or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.

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