Description of this recipe:
Easter Millionaire’s Squares are a delightful no-bake treat that combines layers of crispy rice cereal, rich caramel, and a colorful white chocolate topping. These squares are not only visually stunning with their vibrant colors but also a deliciously indulgent dessert that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Perfect for sharing during the Easter holiday, they are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Why you will love this recipe:
This recipe is a fantastic fusion of textures and flavors. The crispy base provides a satisfying crunch, the caramel layer adds a rich and creamy sweetness, and the colorful white chocolate topping brings a playful touch that’s perfect for Easter celebrations. Additionally, this dessert is easy to make, requires no baking, and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a practical choice for busy holiday preparations.
Introduction
Easter is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and, of course, indulging in delicious treats. This year, why not bring something special to the table with these Easter Millionaire’s Squares? Combining the classic flavors of millionaire shortbread with a fun Easter twist, this recipe is a delightful way to celebrate the season. Whether you’re hosting an Easter brunch, attending a potluck, or simply looking to satisfy your sweet cravings, these squares will be a hit.
With layers of crispy rice cereal, a luscious caramel filling, and a colorful white chocolate topping, these treats are both visually appealing and incredibly tasty. They are perfect for children and adults alike, making them a versatile addition to your Easter festivities. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation steps to create this delightful dessert!
Ingredients:
- 100g unsalted butter
- 100g dark chocolate, chopped into small pieces
- 100g marshmallows (vegetarian, if needed)
- 125g crispy rice cereal
- 397g can condensed milk
- 100g unsalted butter (for the caramel layer)
- 100g light brown soft sugar
- 300g white chocolate, broken into pieces
- A mixture of food coloring gels (we used pink, yellow, green, and blue)
- Mini chocolate eggs, to decorate (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Line a 20cm square cake tin with baking parchment. This will prevent the squares from sticking and make it easier to remove them once set.
Step 2: In a saucepan over low heat, combine the 100g of unsalted butter, 100g of dark chocolate, and the 100g of marshmallows. Warm the mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until everything is melted together. Be sure to keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. Once melted, remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
Step 3: In a large bowl, pour the crispy rice cereal. Once the chocolate mixture has cooled slightly, pour it over the cereal. Using a silicone spatula, stir well until all the cereal is evenly coated with the chocolate mixture.
Step 4: Transfer the cereal mixture into the prepared tin. Use the back of a spoon to press it firmly into the base and sides of the tin. This will create a solid base for your squares. Once done, place the tin in the fridge while you prepare the caramel layer.
Step 5: For the caramel, pour the condensed milk into a deep saucepan along with the remaining 100g of butter and 100g of light brown soft sugar. Heat over low heat, stirring with a spatula until the butter has melted. Increase the heat to medium and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and turns a golden color. When ready, a line should form when you run your spatula along the base. Pour the caramel over the cereal base and smooth the surface. Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour until set.
Step 6: To prepare the white chocolate topping, melt the 300g of white chocolate in a heatproof bowl in the microwave in 5-second intervals (about 1-2 minutes total), stirring halfway through. Alternatively, you can melt it over a pan of simmering water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Once melted, divide the chocolate into five bowls. Leave one bowl plain and color the remaining four bowls with a few drops of food coloring each (using colors like pale yellow, blue, green, and pink). If the chocolate starts to set, return it to the microwave for about 30 seconds.
Step 7: Spoon dollops of the colored and plain white chocolate over the set caramel layer. Gently shake the tin to smooth the surface. Using a skewer, swirl the chocolate to create a marbled effect. If desired, scatter mini chocolate eggs on top for decoration. Chill for another hour until set.
Step 8: Once fully set, remove the squares from the tin and cut them into nine larger squares or 16 smaller squares, depending on your preference.
Serving Suggestions:
These Easter Millionaire’s Squares can be enjoyed on their own or served alongside a cup of tea or coffee. They also make a fantastic addition to an Easter dessert platter, alongside other treats like carrot cake, chocolate eggs, and fruit tarts.
Tips:
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, consider using a higher cocoa percentage dark chocolate.
- If you want to make these squares even more festive, you can add edible glitter or sprinkles on top of the white chocolate layer before it sets.
- Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including chilling time)
Nutritional Information (per square, based on 16 servings):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 50mg
Conclusion
Easter Millionaire’s Squares are a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and fun colors, making them perfect for the holiday season. With their crispy base, luscious caramel, and colorful white chocolate topping, these squares are sure to be a hit with everyone. They are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your festivities without the stress of last-minute baking. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and create a dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
- Can I use different types of chocolate?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of chocolate! Milk chocolate or even a flavored chocolate can be used for the topping, but keep in mind that this will alter the flavor profile of the squares. - How long can I store these squares?
These squares can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. They also freeze well for up to three months if you want to make them in advance. - Can I make these squares vegan?
Absolutely! You can use plant-based butter, vegan marshmallows, and dairy-free chocolate to create a delicious vegan version of these squares. - What can I use instead of crispy rice cereal?
If you’re looking for an alternative, you can substitute crispy rice cereal with puffed quinoa or even crushed graham crackers for a different texture. - Is there a way to make these squares less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet dessert, consider reducing the amount of condensed milk or using dark chocolate for the topping instead of white chocolate. You can also add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel layer to balance the sweetness.
