Cafe Style Puffed Wheat Squares

Name: Cafe Style Puffed Wheat Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 slices
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1/2 cup butter (unsalted); 1 cup packed brown sugar; 1 cup corn syrup; 1/4 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 9 cups puffed wheat cereal

50 min 16 slices Easy

All Recipes

Indulge in these chewy and chocolaty cafe style puffed wheat squares, perfect for a delightful snack or dessert.

Prep

15 min

Cook

5 min

Total

50 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Cafe Style Puffed Wheat Squares are a nostalgic treat, often found in cafes and loved by many for their airy, crunchy texture paired with rich chocolatey goodness. This version brings the classic back to life, combining the perfect balance of cocoa and sweetness. These squares are ideal for anyone looking to recreate a taste of childhood or simply enjoy a quick and easy dessert. Made with pantry staples, they are a simple yet satisfying indulgence. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and guarantees delight with every bite.

Instructions

Prepare the pan

Lightly grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish and set aside.

Pro tip: Use parchment paper for easy removal.

Melt the butter

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup (115g) of unsalted butter.

Combine sugar and syrup

Add 1 cup (200g) of packed brown sugar and 1 cup (240ml) of corn syrup to the melted butter. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.

Pro tip: Use a whisk to avoid lumps.

Incorporate cocoa

Stir in 1/4 cup (25g) of unsweetened cocoa powder until fully combined.

Add vanilla

Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon (5ml) of vanilla extract.

Mix with puffed wheat

Quickly add 9 cups (180g) of puffed wheat cereal to the saucepan. Stir well to coat all the cereal evenly.

Pro tip: Work quickly to prevent the mixture from cooling and hardening.

Transfer to pan

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Press down firmly using a spatula or wax paper to create an even layer.

Pro tip: Ensure the mixture is compact to help the squares hold their shape.

Cool and set

Let the mixture cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes until it sets.

Cut into squares

Once set, cut into 16 squares and serve.

Pro tip: Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh puffed wheat for maximum crunch.
Press the mixture firmly to ensure the squares hold together.
Allow enough time for cooling before cutting to avoid crumbling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these cafe style puffed wheat squares?

The cafe style puffed wheat squares are characterized by their chewy texture and rich chocolate flavour, reminiscent of treats found in cafes.

How many calories are in a puffed wheat square?

Each puffed wheat square contains approximately 230 calories.

Can I use a different cereal instead of puffed wheat?

While puffed wheat is traditional, you can experiment with other puffed cereals, but the texture may vary.

How do I prevent puffed wheat squares from crumbling?

Ensure the mixture is well mixed and pressed firmly into the pan. Allow it to cool completely before cutting.

Can I make these squares ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them up to a week in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these puffed wheat squares as a delightful snack or a sweet end to a meal. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. To make ahead, prepare the squares and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, they can be frozen and thawed as needed, maintaining their chewy texture.