Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Introduction

These Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats elevate the classic marshmallow snack to a deliciously rich and caramel-infused treat. The nutty browned butter and creamy dulce de leche add depth and decadence to every bite.

A stack of three square bar treats is shown close up, each bar layered with a base of light tan crispy rice cereal mixed with white melted marshmallows, creating a textured and gooey look. Between the layers of cereal and marshmallow, there is a thick, rich caramel layer in a warm golden brown color that appears soft and sticky. Thin white parchment paper sheets separate each bar, adding a slight contrast. The stack rests on a rustic dark wooden surface that contrasts with the warm tones of the bars. The bars have an uneven, homemade appearance with some gooey edges visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 5 Tablespoons Butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
  • 10 Cups Mini Marshmallows (divided)
  • 6 Cups Rice Krispies Cereal (cinnamon sugar flavored)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt (fine grain)
  • 1/2 Can Dulce de Leche

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Spray a 9×9-inch pan with non-stick spray and line it with foil or parchment paper, creating a sling. Spray the lining again to prevent sticking.
  2. Step 2: Place a large pot on medium heat and add the butter. Allow it to melt and brown, stirring occasionally until it develops a nutty aroma and light brown color. Be careful not to burn it.
  3. Step 3: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the fine sea salt and 8 cups of mini marshmallows. Stir until completely melted and smooth. If needed, return briefly to heat to finish melting, but avoid overheating.
  4. Step 4: Stir in the vanilla extract once the mixture is smooth.
  5. Step 5: In a large bowl, measure 6 cups of cinnamon sugar flavored Rice Krispies cereal. Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the cereal and mix well to coat evenly.
  6. Step 6: Add the remaining 2 cups of mini marshmallows to the mixture while it’s still warm and mix gently.
  7. Step 7: Lightly press about half of the Rice Krispies mixture into the prepared pan, flattening it evenly. Spread the dulce de leche over this base layer in an even layer.
  8. Step 8: Top with the remaining Rice Krispies mixture and press lightly until evenly spread. Let the treats set at room temperature until completely cooled and firm before slicing.

Tips & Variations

  • Use cinnamon sugar flavored Rice Krispies for a warm, spiced twist, or regular Rice Krispies plus a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar if unavailable.
  • Be attentive when browning butter; it can go from browned to burnt quickly. Remove from heat as soon as it smells nutty and turns golden.
  • For extra texture, sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on the dulce de leche layer before topping with the final layer.

Storage

Store these treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid refrigeration to keep them soft and chewy. If needed, reheat gently in a microwave for 10–15 seconds to soften before enjoying.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a single square rice crispy treat with three visible layers: a light tan crispy rice cereal base, a middle layer of white gooey melted marshmallow, and an uneven drizzle of shiny caramel sauce running through the center. The texture looks sticky and soft with some slight browning on the rice cereal pieces. The treat sits on a piece of white parchment paper over a dark wooden surface. A small broken piece of the treat is nearby, showing the airy look of the cereal. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular Rice Krispies instead of cinnamon sugar flavored?

Yes, you can substitute regular Rice Krispies and simply add a teaspoon of cinnamon mixed with a tablespoon of sugar to the cereal for a similar flavor.

What is the best way to brown butter without burning it?

Use medium heat and stir the butter frequently. Watch for a change in color to light golden brown and a nutty aroma. Remove it from heat promptly to avoid burning.

Print

Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

These Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats are a decadent twist on the classic marshmallow snack. Featuring rich browned butter for a nutty flavor and a luscious layer of sweet dulce de leche, these treats combine cinnamon sugar-flavored Rice Krispies and mini marshmallows for an indulgent, chewy, and crispy dessert that’s perfect for gatherings or a delightful homemade treat.

  • Author: Lila
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 16 servings (1.5 inch squares) 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Brown Butter Marshmallow Mixture

  • 5 Tablespoons Butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
  • 8 Cups Mini Marshmallows
  • 1/2 teaspoon Fine Grain Sea Salt

Remaining Ingredients

  • 2 Cups Mini Marshmallows (divided from total 10 cups)
  • 6 Cups Rice Krispies Cereal (cinnamon sugar flavored)
  • 1/2 Can Dulce de Leche (approximately 7 oz or 200 g)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Pan: Spray a 9×9-inch pan with non-stick spray and line it with foil or parchment paper, leaving an overhang (sling) on the sides. Spray the liner again for easy removal.
  2. Brown the Butter: Place a large pot on medium heat and melt the butter. Continue cooking until it browns and develops a nutty aroma, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Melt Marshmallows: Remove the pot from heat and quickly add the sea salt and 8 cups of mini marshmallows. Stir until fully melted and smooth. If needed, return briefly to low heat to finish melting, but do not overheat to avoid burning the browned butter.
  4. Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract once the marshmallow mixture is smooth.
  5. Mix with Cereal: In a large bowl, measure the cinnamon sugar-flavored Rice Krispies cereal. Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the cereal and mix thoroughly to coat all the cereal evenly.
  6. Add Remaining Marshmallows: While still warm, fold in the remaining 2 cups of mini marshmallows to add texture and flavor.
  7. First Layer: Lightly press about half of the rice krispies mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Use a spatula or your hands (lightly greased) to flatten it down.
  8. Spread Dulce de Leche: Evenly spread the dulce de leche over the first layer of rice krispies, creating a smooth layer that covers the entire surface.
  9. Top Layer: Add the remaining rice krispies mixture on top of the dulce de leche. Lightly press and evenly spread it out so the top layer is uniform.
  10. Set and Serve: Allow the treats to cool and set at room temperature until firm. Use the foil sling to lift the treats from the pan, then cut into squares and serve.

Notes

  • Browned butter adds a nutty depth of flavor; to brown butter, melt it over medium heat and continue cooking until it foams and the milk solids turn golden brown. Remove promptly to avoid burning.
  • The cinnamon sugar-flavored Rice Krispies can be made by tossing regular cereal with a little cinnamon and sugar before mixing or purchased pre-flavored.
  • Lightly greasing your hands or spatula helps press the sticky mixture evenly without sticking.
  • Using a foil or parchment sling makes it easier to lift the treats from the pan without breaking.

Keywords: Rice Krispie Treats, Brown Butter, Dulce de Leche, Marshmallow Treats, Cinnamon Sugar Rice Krispies, Sweet Dessert Snack

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