Ooey Gooey Goodness

I love childhood treats re-imagined for grown-ups and there seems to have been a resurgence in this concept in recent years. I’ve seen an “Oreo” recreated out of white chocolate ganache and triple-dark chocolate cookies; “Pop Tarts” that are really fruit compote hiding inside phyllo dough; “PB&J” sandwiches artfully composed of peanut butter pot de crème, concord grape jelly and homemade vanilla wafer cookies.

This crispy treat homage to the sticky goodies of yore isn’t nearly as fancy as the aforementioned creations, but it definitely hits that nostalgic spot. You can technically switch this up and make it with any non-flake cereal (caramel Cheerio squares, anyone?), but something about the snap, crackle and pop of the original really makes me happy.

Caramel Crispy Treats
Yield 24-30 squares

2 tbsp. butter, divided

6 to 7 c. puffed rice cereal
butter-flavored cooking spray
1 package square caramels, unwrapped

6 tbsp. evaporated milk

Butter the inside of a very large bowl with one tablespoon of the butter. Pour cereal into the buttered bowl and set aside. Coat the bottom and sides of a 9x13 baking dish with butter-flavored cooking spray and set aside.

In a large saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the caramels and evaporated milk, and cook, stirring constantly, until melted together (this will take 7-8 minutes).

Pour the caramel over the cereal and stir with a large spoon or spatula until coating is evenly distributed. Pour the mixture into the baking dish and press flat. Refrigerate for 30 minutes, then cut into portions to serve.