Vegan Crispy Rice Treats

I’m not a marshmallow fan, but that doesn’t mean I’m not a fan of crispy rice treats. Yesterday I whipped up a batch (literally, in minutes!) of marshmallow-free {gluten-free & vegan} bars – a healthier spin on the classic, crunchy treat.

almond butter & dark chocolate crispy rice treats.

4 c. crispy brown rice cereal
1/3 c. + 1 T brown rice syrup
1/3 c. + 1 T almond butter – I used TJ’s roasted flax almond butter.
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
dark chocolate for dunking + drizzling – I used TJ’s semisweet (65% cocoa) callets.

In a small saucepan, over medium-low heat, stir together syrup, almond butter, vanilla and cinnamon. Pour mixture over cereal and stir vigorously until thoroughly combined. Spread into a lightly oiled 8×8 pan and press firmly. Let cool before cutting into 12 squares.

Melt chocolate – via a double-boiler or microwave – for dunking or drizzling. The more chocolate, the merrier!

Place chocolate-decorated squares on a baking sheet with parchment paper and place in the fridge to allow chocolate to harden. (I’ve kept my treats in the fridge in an air-tight container to avoid messy, melted chocolate.)

Makes 12 treats.