A play on the familiar crispy rice treats, this sweet and chewy dessert was inspired by a cup of tahini-tinged hot chocolate, which opened my eyes to the possibilities of using tahini in sweet applications. These rice puffs have a complex flavor with savory, nutty undertones. The honey and coconut extract balance beautifully with the rich, creamy sesame flavors of the tahini. Make sure to use good-quality coconut flakes. Many cultures have similar puffed rice desserts, and, like the classic American crispy rice treats, these tahini coconut rice puffs are a babysitter’s favorite, an easy whenever-dessert.
This recipe was excerpted from 'The Simple Art of Rice' by JJ Johnson with Danica Novgorodoff. Buy the full book on Amazon.
What you’ll need
Crispy Brown Rice Cereal
$4 At Amazon
Tahini
$12 At Amazon
Coconut Extract
$5 At Amazon
Large Unsweetened Coconut Flakes
$16 At Amazon
Recipe information
Yield
Makes 9 squares
Ingredients
3¼
½
½
1
1
1
½
Need to make a substitution?
Preparation
Step 1
Butter a 9-inch square baking pan; set aside.
Step 2
Pour the rice cereal into a large bowl.
Step 3
Combine the tahini, honey, coconut extract, vanilla extract, and salt in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture has thinned and is well blended.
Step 4
Pour the tahini mixture over the cereal, add the coconut flakes, and mix well to thoroughly combine.
Step 5
Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it into an even layer. Place in the refrigerator to set for at least 30 minutes, uncovered.
Step 6
Cut into 9 squares and serve.
