Chocolate Sweet and Spicy Rice Krispy Pops

adapted from the “Original Rice Krispies” recipe
Makes about 20 golf ball sized pops or 20 squares
www.weekofmenus.com

Step 1: Ingredients

3 tablespoons butter
40 regular marshmallows or 4 cups mini marshmallows
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
⅜ teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 ½ tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
6 cups rice krispies (I actually prefer the Trader Joe’s Rice Crispies - but the Kellogg’s original are good as well)

20 lollipop sticks

Step 2: Method

In large saucepan melt butter over low heat. Add marshmallows, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper and stir until completely melted. 

Step 3: Method

Add unsweetened cocoa.  Mix quickly.  Remove from heat.

Step 4: Method

Add rice krispies. 

Step 5:

Stir until well coated.

Step 6: Method

Working quickly, wearing disposable gloves, shape mixture into balls.  Press lollipop sticks into creating a pop.

ALTERNATIVELY
Using buttered spatula or wax paper evenly press mixture into 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan coated with cooking spray. Cool. Cut into 2-inch squares. Best if served the same day.

Step 7: Valentine's Day Ideas

These can be individually served as dessert for a romantic meal.  (who doesn't love eating thing on sticks.)

Step 8: Valentine's Day Ideas

You can present these in a bouquet to someone you love (or want to get to know better)

Step 9: Valentine's Day Ideas

Wrap these up with a pretty ribbon, and pass these out at the office.  You WILL be popular.  (That cayenne does pack some heat!)