Little Debbie Star Crunch Recipe
Introduction
Star Crunch is a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate, gooey caramel, and crispy cereal for the perfect sweet and crunchy snack. Inspired by a popular store-bought favorite, this homemade version is easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
- ½ cup salted butter
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon espresso powder
- 14 oz. sweetened condensed milk
- 20 soft caramels (such as Werther’s)
- 5 ½ cups mini marshmallows (about 1 10 oz. bag)
- 5 cups Rice Krispy cereal
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pot, combine the butter, cocoa powder, and espresso powder. Melt over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until smooth.
- Step 2: Whisk in the sweetened condensed milk until fully combined.
- Step 3: Add the caramel candies and stir constantly until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Step 4: Mix in the mini marshmallows and stir until melted and smooth.
- Step 5: Remove the pot from heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract. Add the Rice Krispy cereal and gently fold until all the cereal is evenly coated.
- Step 6: Line two baking pans with parchment paper. Using a large cookie scoop, drop the mixture onto the parchment to form individual cookies.
- Step 7: Place the pans in the refrigerator and allow the cookies to set for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Step 8: Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of sea salt on top before chilling to balance the sweetness.
- Use different cereals like Cocoa Pebbles or Fruity Pebbles for a colorful twist.
- If you prefer a richer chocolate taste, increase the cocoa powder by 1-2 tablespoons.
- Make bite-sized pieces for easy snacking or larger scoops for a more indulgent treat.
Storage
Store the Star Crunch cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate. They can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If stored in the fridge, allow cookies to soften slightly before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use different types of caramel?
Yes, soft caramels work best for melting, but you can experiment with your favorite brands or homemade caramel as long as they melt smoothly.
What can I substitute for espresso powder?
If you don’t have espresso powder, you can omit it or replace with a small amount of instant coffee granules to enhance the chocolate flavor.
PrintLittle Debbie Star Crunch Recipe
This homemade version of Little Debbie Star Crunch combines rich chocolate, creamy caramel, and gooey marshmallows with crispy Rice Krispy cereal for a nostalgic and decadent treat. Perfect for snack time or a sweet dessert, these no-bake clusters come together quickly on the stovetop and chill to set into delicious bite-sized cookies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: About 24 clusters 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chocolate Caramel Mixture
- ½ cup salted butter
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon espresso powder
- 14 oz. sweetened condensed milk
- 20 soft caramels (such as Werther’s)
- 5 ½ cups mini marshmallows (about 1 10 oz. bag)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cereal
- 5 cups Rice Krispy cereal
Instructions
- Prepare the chocolate base: In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt together the salted butter, unsweetened cocoa powder, and espresso powder, stirring occasionally until smooth.
- Add sweetened condensed milk: Whisk the sweetened condensed milk into the melted mixture until fully combined and smooth.
- Melt the caramels: Add the soft caramel candies to the pot and stir constantly until the caramels have completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Incorporate marshmallows: Add the mini marshmallows and continue mixing until they melt and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.
- Finish the mix: Remove the pot from heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract. Then fold in the Rice Krispy cereal until it is evenly coated with the chocolate caramel mixture.
- Form the clusters: Line two baking pans with parchment paper. Use a large cookie scoop to portion out the mixture onto the parchment paper, forming individual cookies.
- Chill: Place the baking pans in the refrigerator and let the clusters set for 30 minutes to 1 hour until firm.
- Serve and store: Serve immediately or transfer to an airtight container. The treats will keep fresh for up to three days.
Notes
- For best results, use soft caramel candies that melt easily, such as Werther’s Original.
- You can substitute vanilla extract with a teaspoon of rum or bourbon extract for a flavor twist.
- Press the clusters gently with a spatula if you want them to be flatter and more uniform.
- Store the treats in a cool place or refrigerator to prevent melting.
- These treats are best consumed within three days for optimal freshness.
Keywords: Little Debbie Star Crunch, Rice Krispy treats, chocolate caramel snacks, no bake cookies, caramel marshmallow cereal clusters
