If you are ready to elevate a classic childhood favorite, the Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe is your new sweet obsession. Combining the rich, nutty flavor of browned butter with the creamy caramel goodness of dulce de leche, this dessert redefines the beloved crispy marshmallow squares into a sophisticated, crave-worthy treat. Every bite delivers a perfect harmony of chewy, crispy, and buttery textures, accented by a hint of sea salt that wakes up your taste buds. It’s fun to make, utterly delicious, and guaranteed to become a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple pantry staples, but each one plays an essential role in creating the luxurious taste and texture of this recipe. From the golden richness of browned butter to the sweet gooeyness of dulce de leche and the satisfying crunch of Rice Krispies, every element works together perfectly.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick): Browning this butter creates a deep, nutty flavor that transforms the entire treat.
- 10 oz mini marshmallows: The classic binder that melts into gooey sweetness, making the treats irresistibly chewy.
- ½ cup dulce de leche (plus extra for drizzling, optional): Adds a luscious caramel creaminess, elevating the flavor complexity.
- ½ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the sweet notes and balances the richness of the dulce de leche and butter.
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal: Provides the iconic crispy, airy crunch in every bite.
- Flaky sea salt for topping (optional): A finishing touch that brings a delicate crunch and pops of savory contrast.
How to Make Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Butter
Start by melting the unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat. Stir frequently as it simmers and watch closely—within 4 to 5 minutes, the butter will turn a gorgeous golden brown and release a nutty, enticing aroma. This step is key because that browned butter flavor brings depth and warmth to the entire treat.
Step 2: Melt the Marshmallows
Once the butter reaches the perfect brown stage, reduce the heat to low immediately and toss in the mini marshmallows. Keep stirring continuously until the marshmallows melt completely and create a smooth, sticky mixture that will hold everything together.
Step 3: Add Dulce de Leche and Sea Salt
Next, stir in the creamy dulce de leche along with the sea salt. This addition infuses the batter with rich caramel sweetness and a slight salty balance that enhances every bite. Make sure everything is stirred until perfectly combined.
Step 4: Fold in Rice Krispies
Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure each crispy piece is evenly coated with the luscious marshmallow mixture. This guarantees a consistent texture with every square.
Step 5: Press into Pan and Cool
Transfer the sticky mixture into a 9×9-inch pan lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Press it evenly and firmly using a greased spatula or your clean hands. Let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes so it can set and become perfectly sliceable.
Step 6: Optional Drizzling and Topping
For the finishing flourish, drizzle with extra warmed dulce de leche and sprinkle flaky sea salt if desired. This step adds visual appeal, an extra layer of flavor, and the slightest crunch that beautifully complements the soft interior.
How to Serve Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Garnishes
When serving these treats, a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top is a simple yet elegant garnish that makes the flavors pop. You can also add a drizzle of warm dulce de leche for that extra ooey-gooey caramel touch that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Side Dishes
This Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe pairs wonderfully with a scoop of rich vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries on the side add a refreshing contrast that cuts through the sweetness and adds a burst of color.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these treats as part of a dessert platter, cut into bite-sized squares and stacked beautifully on a decorative plate. For parties, you can insert small wooden picks to make them easy to grab. Another fun idea is to layer the mixture in a clear glass trifle dish with extra dulce de leche drizzle and crushed toffee bits for both an impressive look and mouthwatering flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These Rice Krispie treats keep quite well at room temperature when stored in an airtight container. Make sure to keep them away from moisture and heat to maintain their chewy texture. They remain fresh and delicious for up to three days, perfect for prepping ahead of time for events.
Freezing
If you want to store them longer, you can freeze the treats. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Reheating
These treats are best enjoyed as is, but if you prefer a slightly warmed version, a quick zap in the microwave for 10-15 seconds brings back that soft, melty texture without compromising the crispy crunch. Be careful not to overheat, or they might turn too sticky.
FAQs
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Absolutely! Regular marshmallows will work just fine, though they may take a bit longer to melt and create a slightly different texture. If you use large marshmallows, chop them roughly for quicker melting and even coating.
What is the best way to brown butter evenly?
Use a light-colored, heavy-bottomed pan so you can see the butter’s color change clearly. Stir continuously and keep the heat at medium to prevent burning. Remove the pan from heat as soon as it reaches a golden brown shade with a nutty aroma.
Is dulce de leche necessary?
Dulce de leche is what makes this brownie-buttered twist truly special. It adds creamy caramel richness that regular caramel or butterscotch cannot replicate. However, if you’re in a pinch, you might try sweetened condensed milk caramelized on the stove, but it won’t be quite the same.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Definitely! Toasted pecans, chopped almonds, or even a swirl of Nutella folded in before pressing the treats into the pan add delightful variety and texture. Just be careful not to overload so the treats still hold together well.
How do I get the treats to cut cleanly?
Allow them to cool thoroughly at room temperature, ideally for at least 30 minutes. Use a sharp knife and lightly grease or warm the blade between cuts to prevent sticking, so your squares come out neat and pretty.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a way to upgrade the nostalgic charm of Rice Krispie treats, the Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe is your answer. It’s simple enough to whip up on a weeknight yet sophisticated enough to impress guests or lend a special touch to any celebration. I promise, once you try this buttery, caramelly delight, it will become a cherished staple in your dessert arsenal. So go ahead and make a batch—you won’t regret it!
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Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes cooling)
- Yield: 16 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these decadent Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats, combining the nutty richness of browned butter with creamy dulce de leche and the classic crunch of Rice Krispies cereal. This delightful dessert is quick to prepare on the stovetop and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with a twist on a beloved classic.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 10 oz mini marshmallows
- ½ cup dulce de leche (plus extra for drizzling, optional)
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- Flaky sea salt for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Butter: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue to cook, stirring often, until the butter turns a golden brown color and emits a nutty aroma—this should take about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Melt Marshmallows: Immediately reduce the heat to low and add the mini marshmallows. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Dulce de Leche and Salt: Stir in the dulce de leche and sea salt until fully incorporated into the melted marshmallow mixture. Remove the pot from the heat promptly to prevent burning.
- Incorporate Cereal: Quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, mixing gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the dulce de leche marshmallow blend.
- Transfer and Press: Transfer the mixture into a greased or parchment-lined 9×9-inch baking dish. Press the mixture gently into an even layer using a greased spatula or clean hands.
- Cool and Garnish: Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes. For an extra touch, drizzle with warmed dulce de leche and sprinkle flaky sea salt on top if desired.
- Serve: Cut into 16 squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For thicker treats, use an 8×8-inch pan instead of 9×9-inch.
- Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- For a delightful twist, add chopped toasted pecans or swirl in Nutella before setting.
