Caramel Popcorn S’mores Krispie Squares Recipe

Every week, we’re spotlighting a different food blogger who’s shaking up the blogosphere with tempting recipes and knockout photography. Below, Matt Robinson of Real Food by Dad swaps puffed rice out for popcorn in his dramatic s’mores krispie squares.

We’re always up for a new interpretation of s’mores. Photo: Matt Robinson

Caramel Popcorn S’mores Krispie Squares
Serves 16

As I’ve mentioned, this is a house of picky eaters, but there are a few things that are always guaranteed hits, caramel popcorn being one of them. My sister came over to visit our new baby last week and brought the most incredible caramel popcorn I have ever had: one little bag for each of the older boys and one huge feedbag for Naomi and me. While the popcorn was amazing, it was a bit more than we could eat, so I decided to get creative. Thus these caramel popcorn s’mores krispies squares were born!

And let me tell you this, they were amazing! A bit softer and chewier than the traditional Rice Krispies treat, but every bit as gooey and marshmallowy. Did I mention this was pretty darned easy, too? Extremely. Just melt, mix, stir, and press, done! You end up with an awesome treat that is chocolatey and salty and hits all the right taste buds. I’m thinking next time, I will add in some peanuts for a Cracker Jack-like flavor.

6 cups (4 ½ ounces) caramel popcorn 
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 eight-ounce bag mini marshmallows
1 eight-ounce bag chocolate chips
4 cups mini marshmallows (for the topping)

Line a 9-by-9-inch pan with foil, leaving an overhang of one inch on each side.

Place butter and mini marshmallows in a pan over medium low heat, stir until fully melted. Alternately, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 1 to 2 minutes (or until melted and smooth) in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.

Mix and stir in caramel popcorn until well combined. Press mixture into prepared pan; set aside.

Place chocolate and shortening in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 1 to 2 minutes (or until melted and smooth) in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. Pour and spread mixture on top.

Sprinkle remaining 4 cups of marshmallows on top and place under broiler set at high for 2 to 3 minutes or until marshmallows turn golden and toasted. Keep a watchful eye, as the marshmallows go from golden to burnt in a matter of seconds. Allow to cool for ten minutes before serving.

Notes: These are best eaten the day they are made. Also, for ease of cutting, cover knife with a light coat of non-stick spray and wipe it down in between cuts.

More marshmallowy treats:

How to make homemade Mallomars

Sweet potato cake with a marshmallow filling

Dulce de leche marshmallow recipe from ‘Sweet Life’

What’s your favorite take on Rice Krispies treats? Tell us below!