If you love the classic Rice Krispie treat but crave something with a rich, indulgent twist, the Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe is here to delight your taste buds. Imagine the deep, nutty flavor of perfectly browned butter blending with the caramel sweetness of luscious dulce de leche, all wrapped in a chewy, crispy marshmallow blanket. This recipe elevates a familiar favorite into something truly special, so whether you’re making a batch for a party or a cozy night in, these treats promise to become your new go-to sweet snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is a beautiful example of how a handful of simple ingredients can come together and transform into an unforgettable treat. Each element has a crucial role, from the butter that adds richness, to the Rice Krispies that give that satisfying crunch, and the dulce de leche that provides a creamy caramel surprise in every bite.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Browning the butter brings out a warm, nutty flavor unlike any ordinary melted butter.
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness and creaminess, helping bind everything perfectly with a silky texture.
- 10 ounces mini marshmallows: The classic glue that melts into gooey delight, giving these treats their iconic chewiness.
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal: Provides that irresistible light crunch and structure.
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the rich flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant depth to the concoction.
- 1/2 cup dulce de leche (plus extra for drizzling, optional): Infuses every bite with caramel magic that makes these treats stand out.
How to Make Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Butter
Start by melting your unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat. This is where the magic begins. Keep stirring the butter as it foams and gradually turns a golden brown color with a nutty aroma that will fill your kitchen and make your mouth water. This process usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes—patience here is key because that browned butter flavor is the star of the show.
Step 2: Add Condensed Milk and Marshmallows
Next, lower your heat and toss in the sweetened condensed milk along with the mini marshmallows. Stir continuously until the marshmallows completely melt and the mixture is smooth and glossy. This creates a luscious base that coats every Crunchy bite.
Step 3: Flavor It Up
Now it’s time to add the sea salt and vanilla extract. The salt sharpens the sweetness while vanilla delivers a subtle aroma that twirls beautifully through the mixture. Don’t forget to gently swirl in the half cup of rich, creamy dulce de leche—this is what makes these Rice Krispie treats truly unforgettable.
Step 4: Fold in the Rice Krispies
Remove your pot from the heat and carefully fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, making sure every crisp is evenly coated with that decadent brown butter and dulce de leche mixture. This step should be gentle to keep plenty of those charming crunchy clusters intact for texture contrast.
Step 5: Press and Cool
Transfer everything into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Use a spatula or some wax paper to press the mixture down evenly—but here’s a pro tip: don’t pack it too tightly. You want your treats to stay chewy, not rock-hard. Let it rest at room temperature until fully cooled and set. If you want to go the extra mile, warm some extra dulce de leche and drizzle it over the top right before slicing into bars.
How to Serve Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Garnishes
These treats are gorgeous on their own but can be enhanced with a few thoughtful garnishes. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top will highlight the caramel and brown butter flavors spectacularly. If you love a hint of spice, dusting a pinch of cinnamon across the bars adds a warm undertone that pairs perfectly.
Side Dishes
Wondering what to serve alongside these dreamy Rice Krispie treats? A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream creates a delightful contrast in temperature and texture. If you want something fruity, fresh raspberries or sliced apples balance the richness with a fresh, juicy pop.
Creative Ways to Present
Have fun by presenting the Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe as bite-sized squares stacked pretty on a dessert tray for parties. You can also use cookie cutters to create shapes for holidays or special occasions. Want to be extra indulgent? Sandwich a little dulce de leche between two squares for a layered caramel surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled and cut, these treats stay fresh when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keeping them sealed will ensure they maintain their chewy, soft texture and don’t dry out.
Freezing
If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen treats will last about 1 month and can be thawed by leaving them on the counter for about an hour before enjoying.
Reheating
Though normally enjoyed at room temperature, if you prefer a warm treat, pop an individual bar into the microwave for about 10 seconds. It softens the dulce de leche and marshmallow even more into a gooey delight.
FAQs
Can I use regular butter instead of unsalted butter?
You can, but I recommend unsalted butter so you control the salt level precisely. Salted butter might throw off the delicate balance, but it won’t ruin the dish if that’s what you have on hand.
Is dulce de leche difficult to find?
Not at all! Many grocery stores carry it near the baking or international aisles, and it’s also very easy to make at home if you have time. Using good quality dulce de leche really elevates the treats.
Can I substitute mini marshmallows with regular-sized ones?
Yes, absolutely. Just be prepared to spend a bit more time melting them down thoroughly since smaller marshmallows melt faster and more evenly.
How can I make these treats extra chewy?
Avoid packing the treats too tightly when pressing the mixture into the pan. Lightly pressing preserves an airy, chewy texture rather than a dense, hard bar.
Is this Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it’s vegetarian as it contains no meat or gelatin. Just double-check your marshmallows if you’re strict because some brands use gelatin, which is not vegetarian.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to impress friends and family with a treat that’s both nostalgic and irresistibly sophisticated, give the Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe a try. It’s straightforward enough for a quick sweet fix but yields such rich, layered flavors that you’ll want to make it again and again. Get ready to have a new obsession that adds a touch of gourmet magic to a beloved classic.
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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
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats combine the classic nostalgic appeal of marshmallow cereal bars with a rich, nutty depth from browned butter and a luscious caramel twist from dulce de leche. Perfect for dessert or an indulgent snack, they are easy to make on the stovetop and deliver wonderfully chewy texture and luscious flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 10 ounces mini marshmallows
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dulce de leche (plus extra for drizzling, optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Butter: In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir frequently and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the butter foams and turns a golden brown color while releasing a nutty aroma.
- Add Condensed Milk and Marshmallows: Lower the heat and stir in the sweetened condensed milk along with the mini marshmallows. Continue stirring consistently until the marshmallows are fully melted and the mixture becomes smooth.
- Flavor the Mixture: Add the sea salt and vanilla extract to the pot, then gently swirl in the dulce de leche to distribute evenly throughout the mixture.
- Combine with Cereal: Remove the pot from heat. Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until every piece is evenly coated with the buttery marshmallow mixture.
- Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Use a spatula or sheet of wax paper to press the mixture evenly but not too tightly to maintain chewiness.
- Cool and Drizzle: Let the treats cool completely at room temperature. If desired, warm extra dulce de leche slightly and drizzle it over the top before slicing into 16 bars.
Notes
- For an extra chewy texture, avoid overpacking the mixture when pressing into the pan.
- Consider sprinkling a pinch of cinnamon or flaky sea salt on top to enhance flavor.
- Warm dulce de leche gently to make drizzling easier and avoid clumping.
