Chocolate Mint Rice Krispies Treats and Another Gift Idea

I hosted a cookie exchange last week and tried out a new recipe, mostly out of necessity since I was out of town the two days before and so I literally had two hours to ready the house, make punch, make some snacks, and make cookies. Clearly baking wasn't an option so I decided to go back to elementary school days and make rice krispies treats. I was inspired by a Christmas party I attended the Saturday before where they had an impressive spread of food but everyone gravitated towards the rice krispies treats! Those things went like hot cakes.

(I took this after 3 people had arrived. I wish I'd gotten a picture once everyone's treats were out!)

So, for my treats, I wanted to get a little creative and I had seen a few ideas floating around on Pinterest and on blogs so I went with a combination of several recipes and came up with Chocolate Mint Rice Krispies treats.

6 cups Rice Krispies
3 tbsp butter
4 cups mini marshmallows
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chips
Chopped Andes Mints (I had to hand chop mine but sometimes you can find the crushed ones at the grocery store)

Melt the butter over low heat. When completely melted, add marshmallows, cocoa powder, and chocolate chip. Stir constantly until completely smooth. Add rice krispies treats (work quickly!). Press into a greased 13" x 19" pan. Press chopped Andes Mints into top of bars. Enjoy!

Also, another gift idea: This watch from Target is a great way to try out a trend without spending much money. I saw it in the store the other day and it's just as pretty in person. It may not be Michael Kors and it may not last years and year, but it's a fabulous way to try out a look while only spending $14.99.