What makes pandan rice krispies such a unique and captivating treat? This colorful green rice cereal snack infused with the irresistible flavor and aroma of pandan is truly one-of-a-kind. Pandan is a tropical plant with long green leaves that lend a wonderfully fragrant, almost vanilla-like scent. Pandan extract adds a subtle nutty, floral note that perfectly complements the crispy rice krispies base. You’ll never look at rice krispies treats the same way again after tasting this tropical twist. It’s an exotic yet comforting flavor combination that kids and adults alike will love. Keep reading to learn how to make this irresistibly crispy, bright green treat.
What Makes Pandan Rice Krispies Special?
Pandan rice krispies have several characteristics that make them an exceptionally appetizing dessert:
- Appealing color – The natural green hue from pandan extract gives these rice krispies visual appeal. The vibrant green pops against the white puffed rice.
- Aromatic fragrance – Pandan has a sweet, nutty, vanilla-like aroma that infuses the rice krispies with an appetizing scent. The smell enhances the flavor.
- Chewy texture – Properly made pandan rice krispies have a melt-in-your-mouth chewy consistency contrasting the crunch of the puffed rice.
- Subtle sweet flavor – Pandan brings a delicate sweetness that perfectly balances the neutral rice krispies base.
- Addictive taste – The combination of colors, smells, textures, and flavors produces an incredibly crave-worthy treat that keeps you reaching for more.
Why You Should Try This Pandan Rice Krispies?
This recipe for pandan rice krispies checks all the boxes:
- Uses real pandan extract from fresh pandan leaves to achieve authentic color and flavor
- Has the ideal sticky, chewy texture by perfectly melting the marshmallows
- Is quick and easy to make with common ingredients
- Allows for creative customization with different shapes, decorations, and mix-ins
If you want to experience this iconic Southeast Asian sweet, this recipe is a must-try. The sensational flavor, aroma, color, and texture will have you hooked after one bite.
Ingredients For Pandan Rice Krispies
To make traditional pandan rice krispies, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- Rice Krispies cereal – The base for the krispies. Look for the classic Kellogg’s brand.
- White marshmallows – Mini marshmallows provide the chewy binding agent.
- Butter – A couple tablespoons of melted butter help enhance the flavor.
- Pandan juice – Fresh pandan leaf juice gives the vibrant green color and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making pandan rice krispies is easy, especially if you have the pandan juice prepared ahead of time. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Extracting Pandan Juice
- Trim the ends off 8-10 pandan leaves.
- Rinse and pat the leaves dry.
- Slice the leaves into 1-inch strips.
- Place the leaves in a blender with 1/2 cup water.
- Blend on high until liquefied, about 2 minutes.
- Strain through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer.
- Press firmly on solids to extract all the juice.
Perfect Krispy Consistency
- Lightly grease an 8×8″ baking pan with butter or oil.
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons butter.
- Add 10 cups mini marshmallows and stir frequently until fully melted.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup pandan juice. Mix until color is evenly distributed.
- Add 6 cups rice krispies and fold gently until fully coated.
- Transfer to prepared pan and press firmly into an even layer.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting, about 2 hours.
The marshmallows should be completely melted and just beginning to brown on the edges. Be gentle when folding in the rice krispies to keep the texture light and crispy.
Creative Decorations
Jazz up your pandan krispies with fun decorations!
- Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce
- Garnish with chopped peanuts or coconut flakes
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a sweet finish
- Use cookie cutters to cut into fun shapes before cooling
- Top with candy pieces like Skittles, M&Ms or gummy bears
- Layer in a glass dish with whipped cream or pudding for a dessert
Get creative with mix-ins and toppings to make each batch unique.
Tips For Preserving Pandan Rice Krispies
Pandan rice krispies will stay fresh for about 5 days stored in an airtight container. For longer storage:
- Store krispies in freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
- Keep in an airtight container at room temperature up to 1 week.
- Refrigeration can extend shelf life for 2-3 weeks.
Flavor Variations Of Pandan Rice Krispies
The delightfully chewy and crispy texture of rice krispies makes them the perfect base for all kinds of flavors. Try these tasty variations using the pandan rice krispies method:
Coconut Pandan Krispies
- Use coconut milk instead of water to extract pandan juice
- Fold in 1 cup toasted shredded coconut
- Top with coconut flakes
Mocha Krispies
- Replace 2 tablespoons butter with 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur
- Drizzle with chocolate sauce and sprinkle with coffee grounds
Birthday Cake Krispies
- Add 1 teaspoon rainbow sprinkles to the marshmallow mixture
- Frost cooled krispies with vanilla buttercream
- Decorate with more sprinkles
S’mores Krispies
- Fold in 1 cup miniature chocolate chips
- Top with crushed graham crackers
- Drizzle with melted chocolate
The flavor combinations are endless! Use your favorite mix-ins to put a creative spin on classic pandan krispies.
Creative Decorating Ideas
Part of the fun of rice krispies treats is decorating them with tasty toppings and drizzles!
- Green pandan drizzle – Blend pandan leaves with sweetened condensed milk for a drizzle.
- Coconut – Roll cubed pieces in shredded coconut.
- Sanding sugar – Coat the outside in colorful sanding sugar before cooling.
- Chocolate – Dip cooled krispies halfway in melted chocolate.
- Candy decorations – Use M&Ms, sprinkles, or Skittles to decorate.
- Fruit – Top with fresh berries or mandarin orange slices.
- Nuts – Sprinkle with chopped peanuts, almonds, or cashews.
Let your imagination run wild! Adding a touch of decor makes them even more fun to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about making and enjoying pandan rice krispies:
Can I use pandan paste instead of fresh pandan?
Yes, pandan paste can be substituted for fresh leaves. Use 1-2 tablespoons of paste in place of the 1/4 cup fresh pandan juice. The color and flavor intensity may be slightly less vibrant.
What is pandan and what are its uses?
Pandan is a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia. The long green leaves have a nutty, vanilla-like aroma. Pandan juice and extract are used to flavor and color desserts and rice dishes.
What other recipes use pandan?
Popular pandan recipes include pandan waffles, pandan chiffon cake, pandan coconut jam, pandan chicken, Thai sticky rice, and more! The flavor pairs well with coconut and sticky rice dishes.
How does this differ from regular rice krispies?
The fresh pandan sets this recipe apart, giving vibrant green color and unique, floral aroma. The chewy texture is the same, but the flavor is completely different!
Conclusion: Pandan Rice Krispies
Pandan rice krispies are a must-try treat, showcasing an irresistible tropical twist on a nostalgic classic. The signature pandan flavor and gorgeous green hue make them extra fun to eat and share. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch of these crispy, crave-worthy krispies in no time. Get creative with shapes, decorations, and mix-ins to customize each batch. Just beware – they disappear quickly! Let us know your thoughts if you give this recipe a try. Pandan rice krispies are sure to be your new favorite snack.
How to Make Pandan Rice Krispies (with Fresh Pandan Extract)
Notes
- For a stronger pandan flavor, use the full amount of pandan extract (3 drops) or even add a bit more to taste.
- You can substitute vanilla extract for pandan extract if you prefer.
- To speed up the setting process, place the pan in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Once set, cut the treats into squares or desired shapes.
Ingredients
- • Rice Krispies cereal: Roughly 3 cups (adjust based on desired portion size)
- • Unsalted butter: 1.5 tablespoons
- • Marshmallows: Half a bag (5-6 oz)
- • Pandan leaves (optional): 2-3 leaves
- • Pandan extract: 1-2 drops
Instructions
- Prep the pandan (optional): Wash and cut the ends of pandan leaves. Add the leaves to melted butter in a pot and cook for 2-3 minutes on low heat. Remove the leaves before adding marshmallows.
- Melt the butter and marshmallows: In a large pot, melt butter over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir constantly until completely melted.
- Add flavorings: Remove the pot from heat and stir in pandan extract and salt. You can also add a few drops of neon green food coloring for a more vibrant hue (optional).
- Combine the cereal and coconut: In a large bowl, mix together Rice Krispies cereal and shredded coconut.
- Assemble the treats: Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the cereal and coconut mixture. Fold everything together gently until well coated.
- Press into pan: Lightly grease a baking pan. Pour the mixture into the pan and press down with a greased spatula to form an even layer.
- Chill and enjoy: Let the treats cool completely at room temperature or chill them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes for a firmer texture. Cut into squares.
Nutrition Facts
How to Make Pandan Rice Krispies (with Fresh Pandan Extract)
Serves: 4 persons
| Amount Per Serving: | ||
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 250 | |
| % Daily Value* | ||
| Total Fat 10 | 15.4% | |
| Saturated Fat 5 | 25% | |
| Trans Fat 0 | ||
| Cholesterol 5mg | 1.7% | |
| Sodium 150mg | 6.3% | |
| Total Carbohydrate 35 | 11.7% | |
| Dietary Fiber 1 | 4% | |
| Sugars 25 | ||
| Protein 2 | ||
| Vitamin A 0 | Vitamin C 0 | |
| Calcium 0 | Iron 0 | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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