Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
- Start by greasing a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray. This will ensure that your treats come out easily and don’t stick to the pan. A good tip? Use parchment paper for an extra layer of protection and ease.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Keep an eye on it, stirring gently, until it becomes bubbly and slightly browned. This will give a nice depth of flavor to the treats.
Step 3: Add the Mini Marshmallows
- Once your butter is melted, add in the 8 cups of mini marshmallows. Stir continuously while they melt. This process is magical—a fluffy cloud of marshmallow starts forming before your eyes. Ensure that all the marshmallows are melted and mixed thoroughly with the butter.
Step 4: Mix in Cinnamon and Vanilla
- After the marshmallows are melted, remove the saucepan from the heat. (Pro tip: Don’t skip this step!) Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for that extra flavor. Mix well until everything is combined.
Step 5: Incorporate the Cereal
- Next, gradually stir in the Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold the cereal gently into the marshmallow mixture. Ensure that every piece of cereal is coated evenly. This can be a bit tricky with all the gooeyness, but love this step because each piece deserves attention.
Step 6: Transfer to the Pan
- Pour your mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to press it down evenly, ensuring it’s compact. Don’t squish too hard; you want them to remain slightly airy as they cool.
Step 7: Let Them Sit
- Allow your treats to cool for about 30 minutes at room temperature. This helps them set properly; patience is key! Once cooled, you can cut them into squares.
Notes
- Be cautious with heat: When melting the butter and marshmallows, keep the heat at medium to prevent burning.
- Use fresh marshmallows: Stale marshmallows won’t give you the chewy texture you want. Fresh is best!
- Press gently: When packing the mixture into the pan, press down just enough to shape them without compressing too much.
- Add mix-ins: Feel free to add extras like chocolate chips or nuts for a different texture and flavor.
- Serve creatively: Try cutting them into fun shapes using cookie cutters for parties or gatherings.
