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Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Olivia Brooks
Discover the ultimate Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe with nutty browned butter, gooey marshmallows, and crispy Rice Krispies. Easy, chewy, irresistible!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • 9x13-inch baking dish (or any similar-sized pan)
  • Parchment paper or non-stick spray
  • Measuring cups and spoons.
  • Microwave-safe bowl (optional, if you want to melt marshmallows separately)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter
  • 1 10 oz bag marshmallows (or about 4 cups mini marshmallows)
  • 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt optional but recommended for balance

Optional mix-ins for a twist:

  • ½ cup mini chocolate chips
  • ½ cup chopped nuts pecans or walnuts work beautifully
  • Sprinkles or sea salt flakes for topping

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare your pan

  • Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, or lightly grease it with non-stick spray. This ensures your treats will come out easily and maintain their shape.

Step 2: Brown the butter

  • Place the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Allow it to melt, then continue cooking while stirring frequently. You’ll notice it foaming and then gradually turning a light golden brown. The smell will become nutty and toasty—this is your signal that the butter is ready. Be careful not to burn it; remove it from the heat immediately once it reaches that perfect color.

Step 3: Add marshmallows

  • Reduce the heat to low and add the marshmallows to the brown butter. Stir continuously until they are fully melted and combined into a smooth, glossy mixture. The combination of brown butter and marshmallows is the heart of what makes these treats extra special.

Step 4: Stir in vanilla and salt

  • Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to the mixture. This step elevates the flavor, balancing the sweetness and adding depth.

Step 5: Add Rice Krispies cereal

  • Gradually fold in the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir gently but thoroughly, ensuring every piece of cereal is coated with the buttery marshmallow mixture.

Step 6: Press into pan

  • Transfer the mixture into your prepared pan. Using a spatula or lightly greased hands, press the mixture evenly into the pan. Avoid pressing too hard, as you want the treats to remain light and chewy.

Step 7: Let them set

  • Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. If you’re impatient like me, you can pop them in the fridge for 15–20 minutes to speed things up, but I personally love letting them settle naturally.

Step 8: Cut and serve

  • Once set, lift the treats from the pan using the parchment paper and cut into squares or rectangles. Optional: sprinkle a few flakes of sea salt or some mini chocolate chips on top for an added layer of indulgence.
Keyword Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe