Maple Bacon Rice Krispie Treats
So I missed the bandwagon when maple bacon treats came around. ThenI must have dozed off when chocolate bacon treats were making the rounds. So I thought I’d make up for it by throwing it all together. This is by far my craziest Rice Krispie treat yet. It has cinnamon, maple syrup, bacon, chocolate and sea salt. If you think all these don’t belong together, then you will just have to make some for yourself to see that oh yeah baby, it does and you can’t each just one.
Yes that is a jug of wine in the picture. No it is not filled with wine, it’s my dad’s maple syrup. It’s just a convenient container. If you can’t find the Cinnamon Bun marshmallows, you can use 5 cups of regular mini marshmallows. Do try to get a good bacon though. Skip the turkey bacon, go for the real stuff.
Cook your bacon till crispy, not burnt. Otherwise you will have to pick out the burnt parts like I had to on a few pieces. Perhaps it would have been helpful if the kids had found a better place to play than in the kitchen between my legs. We have so many rooms, but they always choose the one I am in. “Sigh”
I used both pure maple syrup and maple essence. I wanted to make sure there was a good maple presence without adding too much liquid and making the bars to soft to hold together.
At this point it smelled like I was making french toast sprinkled with cinnamon along with a slice of bacon and drizzled it all with maple syrup. It smelled like Sunday morning breakfast.
Just look at all those little bits of bacon. You can go ahead and cut yourself a slice of this now or be wild and crazy like me and slather it with some chocolate.
I was trying to decide between dark chocolate and semi sweet, but the dark side always prevails.
This is my very fancy double boiler. Don’t mind the scratches on my Pyrex bowl. It’s had a lot of use over the past 13 years.
My husband did give me some weird looks when I was pouring chocolate over my treats. He still didn’t understand the bacon part. I told him, don’t worry, it will all work out.
He did believe me when he finally got to try a piece. The bacon does not overwhelm, it just blends in with the cinnamon and maple flavors to give a nice salty sweet combo. The chocolate and sea salt on top also add to the overall salty sweet taste. This is one treat to keep on the books. People may look at you funny when you tell them what is in it, but they will come back for more after they have tried it.
Maple Bacon Rice Krispie Treats
by The Sweet Chick
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Keywords: no bake stove top dessert snack maple syrup bacon cinnamon chocolate bars rice krispie treats American
Ingredients (24 bars)
For the Rice Krispies
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 5 cups Jet Puffed Cinnamon Bun marshmallows
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon maple essence
- 1/2 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled into small pieces
- 6 cups Rice Krispie cereal
For the topping
- 1 bag (12 oz.) Hershey’s Special Dark chocolate chips
Optional topping
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
For the Rice Krispies
In a large sauce pan, melt butter and marshmallows over low heat. Stir until completely melted.
Remove from heat and add cinnamon, maple syrup, maple essence, and bacon pieces. Stir until completely mixed.
Then add the Rice Krispie cereal. Mix until all is well incorporated.
Then pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13 pan or a cookie sheet and spread it evenly with a piece of waxed paper.
Place in fridge to cool and set.
For the chocolate topping
Place chocolate chips in a double boiler (or a glass bowl that fits snugly over your pot) filled with water.
Bring water to a simmer on medium heat. Once chocolate starts melting, stir constantly with a rubber spatula until all chocolate is melted and had a smooth consistency.
Remove from heat and pour the chocolate over the cooled Rice Krispies and spread evenly with the spatula.
Allow the chocolate to cool a bit, then sprinkle lightly with sea salt if desired.
Place treats back in fridge to set completely.
Once the chocolate has solidified, cut into squares and enjoy!
Are Black Olives Acidic? Black Olives and Acid Reflux
When dealing with acid reflux, choosing the right foods can be critical. Black olives, commonly used in Mediterranean dishes and salads, often raise questions about their compatibility with an acid reflux-friendly diet. Are black olives acidic? Let’s dive into the facts and explore whether they are suitable for individuals managing acid reflux.
Are Black Olives Acidic or Alkaline?
Black olives are mildly acidic, with a pH ranging from 3.6 to 4.6, depending on how they are processed and preserved. Despite their acidity, they are generally considered safe for consumption in moderate amounts for most individuals, including those with acid reflux.
The preservation process, which often involves soaking olives in brine or vinegar, contributes to their acidity. However, once digested, black olives are thought to have a neutral to slightly alkaline effect on the body due to their rich mineral content, including magnesium and potassium.
Related to Read: Are Green Olives Acidic?
Acidic vs. Alkaline Foods and Acid Reflux
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing discomfort and irritation. Choosing foods with alkaline properties can help neutralize excess stomach acid and soothe reflux symptoms. While black olives are not strongly alkaline, their nutritional profile provides several benefits for digestive health.
Author Tip: 7 Kinds of Foods to Avoid with GERD
Black Olives and Acid Reflux: Benefits
1. Rich in Healthy Fats
Black olives are a source of monounsaturated fats, which promote overall gut health. Unlike high-fat processed foods, these healthy fats do not typically trigger acid reflux when consumed in moderation.
2. High in Antioxidants
Black olives contain antioxidants like vitamin E and polyphenols. These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that can protect the esophagus from irritation caused by acid reflux.
3. Good Source of Minerals
Minerals like magnesium and potassium in black olives help regulate stomach acid production, reducing the risk of reflux episodes.
4. Low in Calories
With approximately 35 calories per 10 olives, black olives are a low-calorie snack that won’t overload the stomach—a common trigger for acid reflux.
Potential Concerns with Black Olives
1. Sodium Content
Many black olives are cured or preserved in brine, which significantly increases their sodium content. High sodium intake can lead to water retention, bloating, and an increased risk of acid reflux. Opt for low-sodium or rinsed olives to reduce this risk.
2. Portion Control
Overeating black olives, like any food, can overload the stomach and increase the chances of acid reflux. Stick to moderate portions.
3. Processing Ingredients
Check for added ingredients like vinegar or spices, which can heighten acidity and potentially aggravate reflux symptoms.
How to Include Black Olives in an Acid Reflux-Friendly Diet?
- Choose Low-Sodium Options
Look for black olives labeled “low-sodium” or rinse regular olives to remove excess salt. - Pair with Alkaline Foods
Combine black olives with alkaline foods like leafy greens, cucumbers, or quinoa for a balanced meal. - Limit Processed Dishes
Avoid black olives in heavily processed dishes like pizza or nachos, as these may include high-fat and acidic ingredients that trigger reflux. - Monitor Your Reaction
Everyone’s body reacts differently. Start with small portions and observe how your body responds before making olives a regular part of your diet.
Author Tip: 7-Day Meal Plan For Gastritis
Black Olive Recipes for Acid Reflux
1. Mediterranean Black Olive Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh spinach or arugula
- 10 sliced black olives (low sodium)
- 1/2 cup diced cucumbers
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- A pinch of salt and oregano
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Toss with olive oil for a refreshing, reflux-friendly salad.
2. Black Olive Hummus
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup black olives (rinsed)
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas
- 2 tbsp tahini
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove (optional, depending on tolerance)
Instructions:
Blend all ingredients in a food processor until smooth. Serve with cucumber slices or whole-grain crackers
Scientific Evidence Supporting Black Olives and Acid Reflux
- Monounsaturated Fats and Digestion: Studies in the Journal of Gastrointestinal Health highlight that monounsaturated fats, such as those in black olives, improve digestion without exacerbating reflux.
- Anti-Inflammatory Benefits: Research in Nutrients (2021) emphasizes the role of polyphenols in reducing esophageal inflammation caused by reflux.
- Mineral Support: A study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2019) links magnesium and potassium intake to improved stomach acid regulation.
Final Thoughts
So, are black olives acidic? Yes, but only mildly. Their nutritional benefits, including healthy fats, antioxidants, and essential minerals, make them a potentially reflux-friendly food when consumed in moderation. By choosing low-sodium options and pairing them with alkaline foods, you can enjoy the rich flavor of black olives without aggravating acid reflux symptoms.
If you have specific dietary concerns, consult a healthcare professional or dietitian for personalized guidance. With mindful eating, black olives can be a flavorful and healthy addition to your diet.