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The Secret Ingredient Your Rice Krispies Treats Are Missing

In the early 2000s, when Tomoko Yagi and her husband went to the movies in New York City, Yagi couldn't find anywhere she could hang out afterward with a nice cup of tea and dessert. Back in her hometown in Japan, she could go to the ubiquitous wagashi (Japanese dessert) cafes that served not-too-sweet confections, such as the fresh fruit and jelly-based anmitsu or the shaved ice treat kakigōri, with a beautiful pot of green tea.

That's why, in 2004, Yagi opened her Japanese teahouse, Cha-An, in Manhattan's East Village. For the next couple of decades, the chill spot became a mecca for anyone who wanted to linger into the night, but not over a drink at a bar.

From the start, Yagi's star menu item has been her black sesame creme brulee. Deep, almost peanut-buttery black sesame seeds underpin its nuanced layers: a dark custard base shielded under a thin, crackly sugar crust that shatters under the tap of a metal spoon, a sphere of black sesame ice cream sitting on top, a lacy cookie wheel wedged into it. All that complexity comes in a small but mighty package.

Traditionally, black sesame seeds have been used in desserts throughout Asia for centuries, as in black sesame brittle candy and tang yuan in China or black sesame porridge, heugimja juk, in South Korea.

(Evan Sung / The New York Times file)

You don't have to go to a Japanese teahouse in Manhattan to experience the wonders of black sesame, although it couldn't hurt. Where white sesame tastes like nuts, rich with a single-noted mildness, "black sesame has a bitterness," Yagi said through her interpreter. Sugar balances that intense, bittersweet bite, scaffolding flavors beyond just sweetness.

In Rice Krispies Treats, for instance, sugary marshmallows benefit from that foil. The occasional crunch of a black sesame seed, between bites of buttery marshmallow and crispy cereal, lets you appreciate the balancing act of black sesame and sugar, dark and light. Jars of the onyx-black seeds are readily available in most grocery stores across the United States and can be a secret weapon in your own dessert making.

It's by no means a recent trend. Traditionally, black sesame seeds have been used in desserts throughout Asia for centuries, as in black sesame brittle candy and tang yuan in China or black sesame porridge, heugimja juk, in South Korea. These days, it also comes in other forms: chewy mochi cake, for instance, or buttery shortbread cookies.

Black sesame desserts, such as these traditional Chinese sesame candies, highlight the fragrant nuttiness of black sesame seeds.

(Dane Tashima / The New York Times file)

"I don't see black sesame as a trend," said Hannah Bae of Noona's Ice Cream in Brooklyn. Although her black sesame pint has been one of her most popular flavors since she started her business in 2016, she considers its allure timeless, simple but complex with an "underlying sort of hush, hush," both in terms of its inky-coal color and how its bittersweetness can taste seductive, like chocolate. "In my eyes, it's a classic."

In the early days of her business, Bae toasted, then ground, the black sesame seeds herself, bringing out the seeds' most mysterious qualities (and essential oils). But, like many other commercial bakers, she now uses jarred black sesame paste, a product that effortlessly delivers serious black sesame flavor.

In these Rice Krispies Treats, you fry black sesame seeds in nutty brown butter to roast them, then fortify their flavor with a drizzle of toasted sesame oil, which creates an aromatic whammy of bold, savory sesame taste. Toasted sesame oil, like vanilla extract, lends fragrance without bulk, and in this recipe, it also helps prevent them from sticking to the pan.

Stored in an airtight container, these savory-sweet treats stay soft and chewy for days. But if you're feeling doubly nostalgic, you can tear a couple of squares into a bowl and pour over milk to enjoy as cereal. It's the perfect ending to any day: sweet, but not too sweet.

(James Ransom / The New York Times)

The combination of butter-fried black sesame seeds and toasted sesame oil creates an aromatic whammy of nutty sesame flavor in otherwise classic Rice Krispies Treats. To quickly and evenly distribute the cereal in the sticky melted marshmallows, it helps to use two utensils and stir the blend like you're frying rice. Pressing the mixture into a 9-inch square baking pan turns out perfect squares, but the size and shape of your vessel is up to you. Another option is to spread out the mixture on a greased sheet pan into airy clusters. If you want to feel like a kid (or are one), you can put those clusters into a bowl and pour over milk to enjoy as cereal.

Makes 16 servings

INGREDIENTS

2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil, plus more for greasing6 tablespoons/85 grams unsalted butter¼ cup/38 grams black sesame seeds (see tip)1 (12-ounce/340-gram) bag marshmallows¾ teaspoon coarse kosher salt or 1 teaspoon flaky kosher salt6 cups/160 grams Rice Krispies cereal

DIRECTIONS

1. Grease a 9-inch square baking pan with sesame oil.

2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-high and cook, stirring occasionally, until the milk solids at the bottom of the pan start to brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and add the sesame seeds. Cook, stirring constantly, until the seeds smell toasty, 1 to 2 minutes.

3. Add the marshmallows and salt and stir until melted, about 5 minutes. Turn off the heat and stir in the 2 teaspoons sesame oil.

4. Add the cereal and quickly stir until evenly coated. Immediately press into the greased pan.

5. Let cool for at least 10 minutes before flipping out onto a cutting board and slicing into squares. The treats can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days at room temperature.

Tip: Black sesame seeds are sold raw or roasted. Both work here, but roasted ones will toast more quickly. The seeds taste bitter if they're rancid, so be sure to check the expiration date and taste a few seeds before using.

Recipe by Eric Kim.

Kim writes for The New York Times.

Campfire Delight: Elevating Rice Krispies To Gourmet Snack Status

Let's talk about a transformation that's been sweeping through campfires and cozy gatherings alike—a culinary revolution that's turning a childhood classic into a gourmet snack. Rice Krispies, those puffed rice cereals that have long been a staple in pantries across the nation, have undergone a delicious metamorphosis. No longer just a simple treat, they've been elevated to a level of decadence that's causing quite the stir among snack aficionados. And the secret? Roasting them over an open flame to achieve a golden, toasty perfection that's nothing short of divine.

The Ingredients and Process of Making Gourmet Rice Krispies Treats

The journey of Rice Krispies from a humble breakfast option to a campfire delicacy is a tale of innovation and nostalgia. It's a story that begins with the simple pleasures of childhood and ends with the sophisticated flavors that only a carefully roasted marshmallow can provide. But before we dive into the gooey center of this tale, let's take a moment to appreciate the origins of this beloved snack.

Rice Krispies treats have been a part of our collective sweet tooth since the early 20th century. According to historical accounts, these treats were popularized in the 1930s as a fundraising idea for the Camp Fire Girls. The original recipe was a stroke of genius by Kellogg's employees Mildred Day and Malitta Jensen, who riffed on an old molasses and puffed wheat concoction to create something truly special. The result was a sweet, sticky, and utterly irresistible treat that quickly became a hit. Fast forward to today, and Rice Krispies treats are still making waves, but with a twist that's as delightful as it is unexpected.

Enter the roasted Rice Krispies treat—a snack that's as fun to make as it is to eat. The idea is simple yet brilliant: take the classic Rice Krispies treat and introduce it to the warm embrace of a campfire's glow. The result is a snack that's crunchy, marshmallowy, and infused with the smoky essence of the great outdoors. It's a snack that beckons you to gather around the fire, skewer in hand, ready to transform a familiar treat into something extraordinary.

How did this idea come to be? It seems that the inspiration was born from a love of roasted marshmallows, those quintessential components of another campfire favorite—s'mores. There's something about the golden-brown, caramelized exterior of a roasted marshmallow that's utterly irresistible. It's a flavor that's both comforting and exciting, a reminder of childhood adventures and starlit nights. And when that flavor is combined with the crispiness of Rice Krispies, you have a match made in campfire heaven.

The process of roasting Rice Krispies treats is akin to roasting a marshmallow. You simply skewer the treat and hold it over the flames, rotating it to achieve an even toastiness. The key is to watch it closely, as the line between perfectly roasted and burnt is a fine one. But when done right, the result is a warm, gooey treat that's reminiscent of the best parts of a s'more, without the need for graham crackers or chocolate bars.

Of course, the beauty of this snack lies in its versatility. You can go classic and enjoy the roasted treat as is, or you can add your own twist to s'more-ify it further. Imagine spreading a layer of Nutella over the warm, toasted surface, or drizzling it with melted chocolate for an extra dose of decadence. The possibilities are as limitless as your imagination, and that's what makes this snack so exciting.

About the recipe itself. The foundation of any good Rice Krispies treat is the perfect balance of cereal to marshmallow. Too much cereal, and you're left with a hard, unyielding block; too much marshmallow, and it's a sticky mess. But when you hit that sweet spot, you're rewarded with a treat that's just right—crispy, chewy, and utterly satisfying.

To achieve the gourmet status, we start by browning the butter, which adds a rich, nutty flavor to the base. Then, we roast the marshmallows to a golden brown, either in the oven or over the fire, before combining them with the cereal. The result is a Rice Krispies treat that's elevated in both taste and texture, a far cry from the pan you might devour by yourself in a single day (not that there's anything wrong with that).

Why stop there? To truly make this treat gourmet, we add a homemade marshmallow creme topping. This fluffy, sweet layer is the pièce de résistance, the final touch that takes these treats from delicious to divine. And the best part? You can roast this layer too, creating a double-toasted masterpiece that's sure to impress.

As you can see, the evolution of Rice Krispies treats is a testament to the power of creativity and the enduring appeal of a classic snack. What started as a simple combination of cereal and marshmallow has become a canvas for culinary expression, a treat that can be as simple or as sophisticated as you desire. So the next time you're gathered around a campfire, or simply craving something sweet, remember that with a little imagination and a willingness to experiment, you can turn a childhood favorite into a gourmet delight.

In the next section, we'll delve into the step-by-step guide to creating your own gourmet Rice Krispies treats, complete with tips and tricks to ensure your success. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, you'll find that crafting these treats is a joyous and rewarding experience. So grab your skewers, stoke the fire, and get ready to elevate your snack game to new heights.

"Festive Rice Krispy Treats" by Smaku is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Adding Your Own Twist and the Importance of Presentation

We've covered the history and the transformation of Rice Krispies treats into a campfire gourmet, let's dive into the ultimate guide to crafting these gooey, golden delights. Whether you're a seasoned camper or simply looking to bring a bit of the outdoors into your kitchen, this guide will help you create the perfect roasted Rice Krispies treats that will have everyone asking for seconds.

The ingredients. The foundation of any Rice Krispies treat is, of course, the Rice Krispies cereal. But to elevate this treat to gourmet status, we're going to need a few more key ingredients: butter, mini marshmallows, and homemade marshmallow creme. The butter will be browned to add a rich, nutty flavor, and the marshmallows will be roasted to golden perfection, either in the oven or over an open flame.

Onto the process. Begin by greasing a 9×13 pan with cooking spray or butter, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. In a large saucepan, melt your butter over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until it turns a nice golden brown. This should take around 5 minutes. Once browned, turn off the stove but leave the butter in the saucepan.

Prepare your marshmallows for roasting. Line two baking pans with parchment paper that has been sprayed with cooking spray or spread with butter, and evenly spread one bag of mini marshmallows on each pan. Place under the broiler for 45 seconds to 1 minute or until the marshmallows are puffed and golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as they can quickly go from golden to burnt.

Using a rubber spatula sprayed with cooking spray, scrape the roasted marshmallows into the pan with the melted butter. Stir quickly to combine them well. Then, pour in the Rice Krispies cereal and stir until well mixed. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan and set aside to make the marshmallow topping.

For the homemade marshmallow creme, combine egg whites and sugar in a pan or bowl placed over simmering water. Whisk constantly until the mixture reaches 160 degrees F. Transfer the mixture to a stand mixer with the whisk attachment and beat on medium-high speed until it doubles, cools, and forms stiff peaks. This takes about 10-12 minutes.

Spread the marshmallow creme over the Rice Krispies treats and place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until the top turns golden brown. Again, watch closely to avoid burning. Alternatively, a kitchen torch can be used for browning.

"Rice Krispies Treats" by Sugar Daze is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Allow the treats to cool before cutting and serving. The result is a multi-textured masterpiece: a crispy, buttery base topped with a layer of gooey, toasted marshmallow creme. It's a treat that's both nostalgic and novel, and one that's sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Why stop there? To truly personalize your Rice Krispies treats, consider adding your own twist. For a s'mores-inspired version, sprinkle pieces of chocolate bar on top of the marshmallow creme before broiling. Or, for a chocolate-hazelnut twist, spread Nutella over the toasted treats. If you're craving the flavor of graham crackers, try adding crushed graham cracker crumbs to the Rice Krispies cereal mixture or sprinkling them on top of the marshmallow creme.

Remember, the beauty of this treat is in its versatility. You can experiment with different toppings and mix-ins to create a variety of flavors. Try drizzling caramel sauce, sprinkling sea salt, or adding a dash of cinnamon for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless, and each variation offers a new opportunity to delight your taste buds.

As we wrap up this guide, let's not forget the importance of presentation. When serving your gourmet Rice Krispies treats, consider cutting them into different shapes using cookie cutters for a fun and festive look. Serve them on a platter with a variety of toppings and spreads, allowing guests to customize their own treat. It's a fun, interactive way to enjoy this classic snack with a gourmet twist.

The art of roasting Rice Krispies treats is a testament to the joy of culinary exploration. It's a simple pleasure that, with a little creativity and care, can be transformed into a gourmet experience. So next time you're planning a camping trip or just looking for a sweet treat to enjoy with friends and family, remember that with a few simple steps, you can turn a childhood favorite into a sophisticated snack that's sure to impress.

Whether you're gathered around a campfire under the stars or cozied up in your kitchen, these roasted Rice Krispies treats are a reminder that sometimes, the most delightful culinary creations come from the most unexpected places. So go ahead, indulge in the gooey, crispy goodness, and let your taste buds revel in the sweet symphony of flavors. After all, life is too short not to enjoy the toasted, marshmallowy magic of a perfectly crafted Rice Krispies treat.

Related posts:Roasted Rice Krispie TreatsBored Of S'mores? Roast Rice Krispies Treats By The Campfire InsteadCamp Fire's Delicious History

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