Caramel Chocolate Rice Krispies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Caramel Chocolate Rice Krispies are a decadent twist on the classic treat, featuring layers of crispy cereal, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate. They strike the perfect balance between chewy and crunchy, sweet and salty. These bars are ideal for parties, lunchbox treats, or a quick homemade dessert that’s sure to impress.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Rice Krispies cerealunsalted buttermarshmallowslight brown sugarsweetened condensed milklight corn syrupsemisweet chocolate chipsvanilla extractsalt

directions

Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it.

In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.

Press the cereal mixture into the prepared pan in an even layer. Set aside.

In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, condensed milk, corn syrup, and remaining butter. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.

Reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes, continuing to stir until the caramel thickens.

Pour the caramel over the cereal layer and spread it evenly.

Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.

Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and spread it evenly.

Let the bars cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for 1 hour to set.

Once set, cut into squares and serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 squares.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesCooling and setting time: 1 hour 15 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Variations

Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate layer for a salted caramel twist.

Use dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for different flavor profiles.

Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or almonds between the caramel and chocolate layers.

Stir in crushed pretzels or toffee bits for added crunch and flavor.

storage/reheating

Store Caramel Chocolate Rice Krispies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.Refrigerate for longer shelf life—up to 10 days.If chilled, allow to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving to soften layers slightly.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead?

Yes, but homemade caramel provides better texture and richness for layering.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Why is my caramel too runny?

Ensure you simmer the caramel long enough to thicken and avoid adding too much liquid.

Do I have to use semisweet chocolate?

No, you can use milk or dark chocolate depending on your taste preference.

Are these gluten-free?

Check the labels—Rice Krispies and some caramels may contain gluten. Use certified gluten-free alternatives if needed.

Can I make these without condensed milk?

Condensed milk is key for the caramel layer, but you can try a homemade caramel recipe using cream and sugar as a substitute.

Why do my bars fall apart?

Make sure each layer is fully set before adding the next and press the cereal mixture firmly into the pan.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish or prepare two separate pans.

Are these too sweet?

They are rich, but the slight saltiness in the caramel balances the sweetness nicely.

Can kids help make these?

Absolutely, kids can help stir, press, and layer with supervision, especially when handling hot caramel and chocolate.

Conclusion

Caramel Chocolate Rice Krispies are a layered treat that delivers gooey caramel, crisp cereal, and rich chocolate in every bite. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just indulging your sweet tooth, these bars are a satisfying and simple way to elevate your dessert game.

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