Browned Butter Rice Krispies Treats

There’s something incredibly nostalgic about the classic Rice Krispies Treats. They remind us of childhood, school lunches, and carefree days spent with friends and family. But what if we could elevate this beloved dessert into something even more special? Enter the Browned Butter Rice Krispies Treats. By incorporating the rich, nutty flavor of browned butter, we transform a simple treat into a gourmet delight. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also results in a batch of treats that are crispy, gooey, and utterly irresistible.

What Makes This Recipe Special

The magic of these Browned Butter Rice Krispies Treats lies in the browned butter. Browning the butter involves cooking it until the milk solids turn golden brown, imparting a deep, rich flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the marshmallows. This simple technique adds a whole new dimension to the treats, making them stand out from the traditional version. Additionally, the optional sprinkle of salt enhances the flavors, balancing the sweetness and providing a delightful contrast. Whether you’re making them for a party, a special occasion, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these treats are sure to impress!

What You’ll Need

• 5 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, browned
• 10-ounce bag miniature or large marshmallows
• 1 teaspoon salt (optional)

Hardware & Gadgets

• Large saucepan – for melting the butter and marshmallows.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the mixture.
• 9×13-inch baking dish – to shape and cool the treats.
• Parchment paper – for easy removal and cleanup.
• Measuring cups – to ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
• Heat-resistant spatula – for spreading the mixture evenly in the baking dish.

Browned Butter Rice Krispies Treats: How It’s Done

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Start by placing your unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently and watch closely as it melts. After a few minutes, the butter will start to foam. Continue stirring until you see the milk solids at the bottom turning a golden brown color and the butter develops a nutty aroma. This process usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn it!

Step 2: Add Marshmallows

Once your butter is perfectly browned, reduce the heat to low and add the entire 10-ounce bag of marshmallows to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted and incorporated with the browned butter, creating a smooth and creamy mixture.

Step 3: Combine with Rice Krispies

Remove the saucepan from heat and add the 5 cups of Rice Krispies cereal to the melted marshmallow mixture. If you’re using salt, sprinkle it in at this stage. Gently fold the cereal into the marshmallow mixture using your wooden spoon or spatula until all of the cereal is evenly coated. Be careful not to crush the cereal too much.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Line your 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal later. Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and use a heat-resistant spatula to spread it evenly. Press down firmly to create a compact layer, ensuring there are no gaps.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes or until they are set. Once cooled, lift the treats out of the dish using the edges of the parchment paper. Place them on a cutting board and slice them into squares or rectangles.

International Equivalents

• 5 cups Rice Krispies cereal ≈ 150 grams
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter ≈ 113 grams
• 10 ounces marshmallows ≈ 283 grams
• 1 teaspoon salt ≈ 5 grams

Cook’s Notes

• For a more intense flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the marshmallow mixture before combining with the Rice Krispies.
• If you prefer a chewier texture, use less Rice Krispies cereal, about 4 cups.
• Feel free to mix in extras such as chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for added flavor and texture.
• Ensure that your butter is browned properly; this is key to achieving the distinctive flavor of these Browned Butter Rice Krispies Treats.

Storage Pro Tips

To keep your Browned Butter Rice Krispies Treats fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and chewy for about 3-5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.

Popular Questions

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, you can use margarine, but the flavor will be different. Browning butter gives a unique, nutty taste that enhances the treats.

What if I can’t find Rice Krispies cereal?

You can substitute with any similar puffed rice cereal. Just make sure it has a comparable texture and flavor.

How do I prevent my Rice Krispies treats from being too sticky?

Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the pan and allow it to cool completely before slicing. A light sprinkle of salt helps balance the sweetness and reduces stickiness.

Can I make these treats ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make them a day or two in advance. Just ensure they are stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Cook This Next

• Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Vegetable Spring Rolls
• Easy Vanilla Cupcakes
• Peanut Butter Brownies

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the details to create your very own Browned Butter Rice Krispies Treats, gather your ingredients and get started! These treats are perfect for sharing with loved ones, or you can keep them all to yourself – we won’t judge. The process is simple, and the result is a delectable dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy every gooey, crispy bite, and don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family. Happy cooking!