The aroma of sweet, toasted butter wafting through your kitchen is a siren call that no one can resist. Picture this: gooey marshmallows mingling with crispy rice cereal, all enveloped in a luscious, nutty brown butter coating. These brown butter rice krispie treats are the ultimate childhood nostalgia wrapped in a delightfully sophisticated twist that will make you feel like a culinary genius.

Remember those afternoons when you’d come home from school, craving something sweet and comforting? The sound of crinkling wrappers as you reached for your favorite snack came with an instant rush of excitement. Now imagine taking that beloved treat and elevating it to gourmet status! Whether for a birthday party, a cozy movie night, or just because it’s Tuesday and you deserve it—these treats promise to deliver an unforgettable flavor experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These brown butter rice krispie treats are incredibly simple to prepare; even kitchen novices can master them.
- Their rich, nutty flavor adds a delicious twist to the classic recipe everyone knows and loves.
- The golden-brown color and shiny finish make them visually appealing on any dessert table.
- They’re versatile too—perfect for personalizing with your favorite mix-ins or toppings!
Ingredients for brown butter rice krispie treats
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor when making brown butter.
Mini Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows melt uniformly and incorporate perfectly into the mixture.
Rice Krispies Cereal: Classic Rice Krispies add the perfect crunch to balance the gooey marshmallow.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the flavor profile, making each bite irresistible.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make brown butter rice krispie treats
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Brown the Butter
Start by melting unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma—your kitchen will smell fantastic!
Step 2: Add Marshmallows
Once the butter is browned, lower the heat and add mini marshmallows. Stir continuously until they melt completely into a smooth mixture.
Step 3: Mix in Vanilla
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in vanilla extract. This aromatic addition will elevate your treats from good to phenomenal!
Step 4: Combine with Rice Krispies
Gradually pour in Rice Krispies cereal while gently folding it into the melted marshmallow mixture. Make sure every piece is coated with that delightful brown butter goodness.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Grease a baking dish (about 9×13 inches) with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper. Press the mixture firmly into the dish using a spatula or wax paper—this step is crucial for achieving perfect squares!
Step 6: Let Cool and Serve
Allow your treats to cool completely at room temperature before cutting them into squares. Enjoy these delectable bites as an afternoon snack or dessert!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with chocolate sauce if you want an extra decadent touch!
You Must Know
- These delightful brown butter rice krispie treats are not just your average dessert; they bring a nutty flavor that elevates the classic recipe.
- Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, their gooeyness will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the butter in a large pot over medium heat until it turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma. Then, stir in the marshmallows until melted before adding the Rice Krispies for that perfect crunch!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your treats! Swap out regular marshmallows for flavored ones, or mix in some chocolate chips, sprinkles, or even nuts for an extra crunch. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store your brown butter rice krispie treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If they harden, just pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds to soften.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, don’t rush the browning process; take your time to achieve that rich, nutty taste.
- When mixing in the cereal, do so gently to avoid crushing them.
- If you want softer treats, add an extra tablespoon of butter when mixing.
I remember making these treats for my niece’s birthday party. Her eyes lit up when she took her first bite, and she declared me the “Best Aunt Ever.” It’s moments like these that make baking worthwhile!
FAQs :
What are brown butter rice krispie treats?
Brown butter rice krispie treats are a delicious twist on the classic dessert. They combine crispy rice cereal with melted marshmallows and brown butter, providing a rich, nutty flavor that elevates this timeless treat. The brown butter adds a depth of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the marshmallows. This simple recipe is perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just a sweet snack at home.
How do I make brown butter for my rice krispie treats?
To make brown butter for your rice krispie treats, start by melting unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir it frequently until it begins to foam and then turns golden brown. You’ll notice a nutty aroma as it cooks. Remove it from the heat before it burns, and let it cool slightly before adding it to your marshmallows and cereal mixture. This step is crucial for achieving that rich flavor.
Can I use gluten-free cereal for brown butter rice krispie treats?
Yes, you can definitely use gluten-free cereal to make brown butter rice krispie treats! Many brands offer gluten-free options that work just as well as the traditional variety. Simply check the label on your cereal to ensure it’s certified gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy these delightful treats without worrying about gluten sensitivity or dietary restrictions.
How should I store my brown butter rice krispie treats?
To store your brown butter rice krispie treats properly, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be aware that refrigeration may change their texture slightly, making them a bit firmer than when freshly made.
Conclusion for brown butter rice krispie treats :
In summary, brown butter rice krispie treats offer a delightful spin on the classic recipe with their unique nutty flavor profile. By incorporating browned butter into your preparation process, you create an irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy steps, these tasty bars are fun to make and share with friends or family. Don’t forget to try different mix-ins or toppings to personalize your creation! Enjoy every gooey bite of these scrumptious snacks!
Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats
Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats are a deliciously elevated twist on the classic dessert. With their rich, nutty flavor from browned butter and the gooey goodness of marshmallows, these treats will transport you back to childhood while impressing your taste buds. Perfect for any occasion—be it a birthday party or a cozy movie night—these treats are sure to delight everyone!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cups mini marshmallows
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat, stirring frequently until golden brown and nutty in aroma.
- Lower the heat and add the mini marshmallows, stirring continuously until completely melted.
- Remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, ensuring each piece is coated with the brown butter mixture.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and firmly press the mixture into it using a spatula.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares. For an extra treat, drizzle with chocolate sauce before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Customize your treats by adding chocolate chips or nuts for added texture. Store in an airtight container for up to one week; soften in the microwave if they harden.