Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup sesame seeds
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows
- 6 cups crispy rice cereal
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spread the sesame seeds on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown. Set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the honey, brown sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
3. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and toasted sesame seeds.
4. Add the mini marshmallows to the saucepan and stir until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crispy rice cereal and the marshmallow mixture. Stir until the cereal is completely coated.
6. Spray the 9x13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Pour the cereal mixture into the dish and press down firmly with a wooden spoon or spatula.
7. Let the mixture cool and set for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
Oven temperature: 350°F
Serving size:
Makes 12-16 squares
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 250
Total fat: 10g
Saturated fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 200mg
Total carbohydrates: 38g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugars: 23g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted butter, but omit the added salt.
- Corn syrup can be used instead of honey.
- White sugar can be used instead of brown sugar.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, to the cereal mixture.
- Substitute the sesame seeds for shredded coconut or chopped dried fruit.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the squares before serving.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a non-stick spatula or wooden spoon to press the cereal mixture firmly into the baking dish.
- Let the squares cool completely before cutting to avoid them falling apart.
- Store the squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Storage instructions:
Store the squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
The squares can be reheated in the microwave for a few seconds to soften them.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the squares on a platter or in a decorative tin.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle extra sesame seeds or shredded coconut on top of the squares.
Pairings:
Serve the squares with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
These squares make a great snack on their own, but can also be served with fresh fruit or yogurt.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the squares are too sticky, add more cereal to the mixture. If they are too dry, add more melted marshmallows.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use fresh ingredients and store the squares in an airtight container to prevent them from going stale.
Food history:
Marshmallow treats have been around since the early 1900s, and were originally made with egg whites and sugar. The modern version, made with marshmallows, was invented in the 1920s.
Flavor profiles:
These squares are sweet and nutty, with a hint of toasted sesame.
Serving suggestions:
Serve these squares as a sweet snack or dessert.
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Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Chewy, Sesame, Sesame-Flavored