Cakes

Avalanche Treats

 

New Year’s Eve Avalanche Treats

Ingredients:

  • 1 bag white chocolate chips
  • 2 cups Rice Krispie cereal
  • 1 cup melted peanut butter
  • 1 cup M&M’s
  • 1 cup marshmallows

Instructions:

  1. Melt White Chocolate and Peanut Butter: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the white chocolate chips until smooth. Once melted, pour in the melted peanut butter and stir until well combined and smooth.
  2. Mix in Cereal: Remove the saucepan from heat, then add the Rice Krispie cereal to the melted mixture. Stir until all the cereal is coated evenly.
  3. Add Mix-ins: Stir in the marshmallows and M&M’s until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
  4. Form Cookies or Bars: Using a cookie scoop, portion out the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to form individual cookies. Alternatively, you can press the mixture into a lined springform pan to make bars.
  5. Chill: Place the cookies or bars in the refrigerator until they are firm and set, usually for about 1-2 hours.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, serve your New Year’s Eve Avalanche Treats and enjoy them with friends and family as a delightful snack for your celebration!

These treats are sure to be a hit at your New Year’s Eve gathering, combining the sweetness of white chocolate, the crunch of Rice Krispies, and the colorful fun of M&M’s!

Here are some helpful tips to make your Avalanche Treats even more delightful:

  1. Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality white chocolate chips, peanut butter, and M&M’s to enhance the flavor and overall quality of your treats.
  2. Add Variety with Mix-ins: Get creative with your mix-ins! Consider adding chopped nuts (such as almonds or peanuts), shredded coconut, mini chocolate chips, or even crushed pretzels for extra texture and flavor.
  3. Adjust Consistency: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the consistency of the melted chocolate and peanut butter mixture. If you prefer a thicker texture, you can add more cereal. For a thinner consistency, you can reduce the amount of cereal slightly.
  4. Don’t Overheat: When melting the white chocolate chips and peanut butter, be careful not to overheat them. Use low heat and stir constantly to prevent the mixture from burning or seizing.
  5. Allow Proper Chilling Time: Ensure that you refrigerate the treats for a sufficient amount of time to allow them to firm up properly. This will help them hold their shape and prevent them from being too soft or sticky.
  6. Get Creative with Shapes: Instead of just forming the treats into cookies or bars, consider using cookie cutters to create fun shapes, such as stars or hearts. This adds an extra element of visual appeal to your treats.
  7. Drizzle with Chocolate: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle melted chocolate (white, milk, or dark) over the top of the treats once they are chilled. This adds a decorative finish and an additional layer of flavor.
  8. Store Properly: Store any leftover Avalanche Treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. They can be enjoyed for several days after making them, if they last that long!

By following these tips, you can take your Avalanche Treats to the next level and create a truly delightful and memorable treat for your New Year’s Eve celebration!

Here are some secrets to achieving the perfect Avalanche Treats:

  1. Temperature Control: Pay close attention to the temperature when melting the white chocolate chips and peanut butter. Use low heat and stir constantly to prevent scorching or overheating, which can result in a grainy texture.
  2. Proper Mixing: Ensure thorough mixing when combining the melted white chocolate and peanut butter with the Rice Krispie cereal. Every piece of cereal should be coated evenly to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
  3. Timing is Key: Add the marshmallows and M&M’s to the mixture at the right moment. You want them to be evenly distributed throughout the treats without melting completely. Stir them in just until they are combined to maintain their shape and texture.
  4. Quick Forming: Work efficiently when forming the treats into cookies or bars. The mixture can start to set quickly, so use a cookie scoop or spatula to shape them before they become too firm.
  5. Even Distribution of Mix-ins: Make sure the mix-ins, such as marshmallows and M&M’s, are distributed evenly throughout the mixture. This ensures that every bite is packed with deliciousness and visual appeal.
  6. Chilling Time: Allow the Avalanche Treats to chill in the refrigerator for the recommended time to ensure they set properly. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and preventing them from becoming too soft or sticky.
  7. Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality ingredients for the best results. This includes fresh Rice Krispie cereal, premium white chocolate chips, and your favorite brand of peanut butter. The quality of the ingredients directly impacts the flavor and overall outcome of the treats.
  8. Personalization: Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your preferences. Experiment with different mix-ins, adjust the sweetness level, or even add a sprinkle of sea salt for a gourmet touch. Making the recipe your own will result in the perfect Avalanche Treats for you and your guests to enjoy!

Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers related to Avalanche Treats:

1. Can I use regular chocolate instead of white chocolate for Avalanche Treats?

  • Yes, you can definitely use regular chocolate if you prefer. Dark chocolate or milk chocolate can be substituted for white chocolate to create a different flavor profile for your treats.

2. Can I make Avalanche Treats without peanut butter?

  • Yes, you can omit the peanut butter if you have allergies or prefer not to use it. You can simply melt the white chocolate chips on their own and proceed with the recipe as usual.

3. How long do Avalanche Treats stay fresh?

  • When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, Avalanche Treats can stay fresh for up to one week. However, they are best enjoyed within the first few days for optimal texture and flavor.

4. Can I freeze Avalanche Treats for later?

  • Yes, you can freeze Avalanche Treats for later enjoyment. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

5. Can I use other cereals instead of Rice Krispies?

  • While Rice Krispies are traditionally used in Avalanche Treats, you can experiment with other cereals if desired. Cornflakes, crushed pretzels, or even granola can be used as alternatives to create different textures and flavors.

6. Can I add additional mix-ins to Avalanche Treats?

  • Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and add your favorite mix-ins to customize your Avalanche Treats. Chopped nuts, shredded coconut, mini chocolate chips, or dried fruit are all great options to consider.

7. How can I prevent my Avalanche Treats from becoming too hard or too soft?

  • To prevent Avalanche Treats from becoming too hard, be cautious not to overheat the white chocolate and peanut butter mixture, and avoid overmixing the cereal. To prevent them from becoming too soft, ensure they are properly chilled in the refrigerator before serving.

8. Can I make Avalanche Treats ahead of time for a party?

  • Yes, Avalanche Treats can be made ahead of time for parties or gatherings. Simply prepare them as directed, then store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. They’re a convenient and delicious make-ahead treat!