We all remember the Rice Krispie treats from our youth. Was there a problem those crunchy, gooey treats couldn't solve? Since St. Patrick's Day is coming up next week, we thought we'd update this kid snack with some powerful green superfoods for a healthy take on this classic treat. And since these are made with our Buttery Spread, they're dairy-free (and just as delicious).
Matcha and spirulina add a natural green hue, and they're full of antioxidants. Matcha is high in amino acid L-theanine and can help reduce stress (it also contains around 70mg of caffeine per teaspoon). Spirulina has many beneficial nutrients, including B vitamins, iron, copper, manganese, and protein, among others. Both of these superfoods pack a nutrient-dense punch.
Our testers didn't mind the mild flavor, saying the superfoods added an "earthiness" to the treats. You could add some chopped pistachio nuts for some sweet and salty notes, or swap 1/2 teaspoon's worth for some cacao powder, which has even more superfood benefits (though it would disguise the fun green color). And if you're sensitive to caffeine, you might want to nix the matcha and use only the spirulina.
Hope you enjoy these treats!
INGREDIENTS
- 7 Tbsp. Buttery Spread
- 6 cups mini marshmallows (or 55 regular-sized marshmallows)
- 3/4 tsp. matcha powder
- 1/4 tsp. spirulina powder
- 6 cups brown rice cereal
DIRECTIONS
- In a medium sauce pan, melt Buttery Spread over medium-low heat.
- Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted; remove from heat immediately.
- Sprinkle in superfood powders and stir until color is even.
- Add brown rice cereal, folding toward the center with a large spatula until cereal is thoroughly coated.
- Prepare a 9 x 13" pan by greasing it with a small amount of Buttery Spread. Spoon mixture into pan evenly, pressing top lightly to shape. Don't compress mixture too much or the treats will be overly dense.
- Cool in a refrigerator for 30–60 minutes.
- Using a knife or cookie cutter, cut treats into squares or other desired shape. Enjoy!
