Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
If you’re a fan of crispy, gooey, and utterly irresistible treats, then you’re going to flip for this Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe. Trust me, it’s a serious upgrade from the classic version—rich, buttery goodness meets that caramel-y dulce de leche magic, all wrapped up in crunchy cinnamon sugar Rice Krispies. If you’re ready to treat yourself (and everyone else), keep reading because this recipe is fan-freaking-tastic and surprisingly easy!
Why This Recipe Works
- Brown Butter Magic: Browning the butter brings a nutty, rich flavor that deepens every bite.
- Dulce de Leche Layer: Adding dulce de leche in the middle creates a luscious surprise that balances the crispy texture.
- Cinnamon Sugar Kick: Using cinnamon sugar-flavored Rice Krispies or sprinkling your own adds warm spice that elevates the whole treat.
- Texture Contrast: The mix of melted marshmallows and crunchy cereal delivers that perfect crispy-chewy combo you crave.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Every ingredient in this Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe is there for good reason—some for flavor, some for texture, all to make your palate sing. Let me walk you through some tips before you shop.
- Butter: Using real, unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness and get that toasty brown butter flavor when melted properly.
- Vanilla Extract: Just a splash to enhance the sweetness without overpowering the dulcet tones of the dulce de leche.
- Mini Marshmallows: Divided to mix in melting and for a little extra pop of gooey fluff on top.
- Rice Krispies Cereal (Cinnamon Sugar Flavored): Adds crunch and a warm spice note; if you don’t find these, plain works fine too—just add cinnamon sugar yourself.
- Sea Salt (Fine Grain): A pinch balances sweetness and intensifies all those rich flavors from the brown butter and dulce de leche.
- Dulce de Leche: This creamy caramel spread is the star surprise in the middle—make sure to get good quality for the best flavor.
Make It Your Way
I like to tweak this Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe to match the occasion or my mood. It’s versatile, so don’t hesitate to add your own spin to make it feel like yours!
- Variation: I’ve swapped out cinnamon sugar Rice Krispies for chocolate Rice Krispies for a chocolaty twist that kids adore—totally yummy with the dulce de leche in the middle.
- Dietary Mod: You could try using vegan butter and marshmallows if you’re looking to make a dairy-free version that still hits the flavor notes.
- Texture Boost: Toss in toasted nuts or pumpkin seeds for extra crunch and a nutty contrast.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan Like a Pro
I start by spraying a 9×9-inch baking pan with non-stick spray—then line it with foil or parchment paper, leaving a bit hanging over the edges for easy lifting later. Spray one more time on the paper so nothing sticks. Trust me, this little step saves you scrapes and spills down the line.
Step 2: Brown That Butter Just Right
Place your butter in a light-colored pot on medium heat. You’ll want to watch closely: at first the butter will foam up, then you’ll see little brown flecks forming on the bottom of the pan—that’s your cue to remove it from heat. This browning creates the deep nutty flavor that makes these treats unforgettable. Don’t rush this part or burn the butter; patience is key!
Step 3: Melt Marshmallows Into That Browned Butter
Immediately stir in the salt and 8 cups of mini marshmallows. Stir gently until completely melted and smooth, adding the pot back on low heat if necessary but watch closely to avoid burning. Then stir in the vanilla extract for that final fragrant touch.
Step 4: Mix Cereal and Marshmallow Goodness
Pour measured cinnamon sugar Rice Krispies into a big bowl. Pour your melted marshmallow mixture over and mix well so every crispy piece is coated and shiny. While it’s still warm, add the remaining marshmallows to keep some nice texture and sweetness throughout.
Step 5: Layer It Up – Press, Spread, and Repeat
Using a buttered spoon helps here, gently press half of the mixture evenly into your prepared pan. Then spread half a can of dulce de leche in an even layer over the top. Finally, press that remaining Rice Krispies mixture over the caramel layer, smoothing it out carefully so you get an even bar. Let it cool at room temperature until it sets—no fridge needed!
Tips from My Kitchen
- Watch the Butter Color: Brown butter can go from perfect to burnt quickly; I step away as soon as I see the brown specks.
- Use a Buttered Spoon: It’s a small trick that keeps your hands clean and lets you press the mixture firmly without sticking or squishing the marshmallows out.
- Don’t Skip the Salt: That tiny pinch brings out all the sweet flavors and balances the rich caramel wonderfully.
- Room Temp Finish: Let your treats cool at room temperature so they set up with the best texture—not too hard, not too soft.
How to Serve Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Garnishes
I love sprinkling a tiny bit of flaky sea salt on top right before serving—it contrasts the sweetness and makes the flavors pop. Sometimes I also drizzle a little extra warmed dulce de leche on top for that over-the-top indulgence. A dusting of cinnamon sugar can also add a pretty finish.
Side Dishes
These treats shine on their own, but if you’re serving at a party, pair them with fresh fruit or creamy ice cream to cut through the sweetness. A cold glass of milk or even a lightly brewed coffee with cream pairs beautifully too.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I’ve cut these treats into fun shapes using cookie cutters—hearts or stars work wonderfully for celebrations. Wrapping individual bars in parchment paper tied with string makes great party favors or gifting options. Layering them in clear jars also makes for a pretty edible gift display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store these treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. I find they hold onto their chewy, crispy texture best without refrigeration. If it’s humid, I keep a dry paper towel on top to absorb moisture, which helps prevent sogginess.
Freezing
Freezing works great! I wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They keep well for up to 6 weeks. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw them at room temp for about 30 minutes—it’s like fresh again.
Reheating
If you want your Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats a little soft and melty after freezing, a quick 10-second zap in the microwave works wonders. Just watch that they don’t overheat—they’re perfect when warm but still keep some of their crispiness.
FAQs
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Can I use regular Rice Krispies instead of cinnamon sugar-flavored?
Absolutely! If cinnamon sugar Rice Krispies aren’t available, use plain Rice Krispies and simply sprinkle about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of cinnamon sugar into the cereal mixture before combining with melted marshmallows. This way, you still get that warm cinnamon flavor without hunting down a specialty cereal.
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How do I brown butter without burning it?
Use a light-colored pan so you can see the butter changing color. Melt the butter over medium heat, stirring gently and watching closely. Once it foams and you see those toasty brown flecks at the bottom, immediately remove it from the heat. The residual warmth will finish browning it without burning.
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Can I substitute dulce de leche with caramel sauce?
You can! While dulce de leche has a thicker, creamier consistency and slightly different flavor, a good quality caramel sauce works in a pinch. Just be mindful that caramel can be a bit runnier, so press your layers carefully to keep things neat.
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How do I prevent my Rice Krispie treats from being too sticky?
Press the mixture into your pan using a buttered spoon or spatula rather than your hands—this helps keep things clean and stops sticking. Also, avoid pressing too hard, or the treats can get dense and lose that light, airy texture.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, this Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe holds a special place in my heart—and my kitchen! It’s one of those recipes I reach for when I want to impress friends or just indulge in something comforting and a little nostalgic but way more grown-up and special. If you love sweet treats with layers of texture and flavor, I promise you’ll be obsessed. Give it a try, and let me know how your batch turns out—I have no doubt you’ll want to make these again and again!
Print
Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats, featuring browned butter’s rich, nutty flavor combined with gooey dulce de leche and cinnamon sugar Rice Krispies for a decadent twist on a classic treat.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 5 Tablespoons Butter
- ¼ teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 10 Cups Mini Marshmallows, divided
- 6 Cups Rice Krispies Cereal, cinnamon sugar flavored (or add ¼ cup cinnamon sugar if unavailable)
- ½ teaspoon Sea Salt, fine grain
- ½ Can Dulce de Leche
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Spray a 9×9-inch pan with non-stick spray and line it with a foil or parchment paper sling. Spray again to ensure easy removal.
- Brown the Butter: Place a large pot on the stove over medium heat. Add butter and allow it to melt, stirring gently until it foams and small brown flecks appear, indicating browned butter. Remove from heat promptly to avoid burning.
- Melt Marshmallows: Add sea salt and 8 cups of mini marshmallows to the browned butter off heat. Stir until completely melted and smooth. If needed, return briefly to heat without burning.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Combine with Cereal: Measure rice krispies cereal into a large bowl. Pour melted marshmallow mixture over the cereal and mix thoroughly to coat.
- Add Remaining Marshmallows: While the mixture is still warm, fold in the remaining 2 cups of mini marshmallows evenly.
- Layer First Half: Lightly press about half of the rice krispies mixture into the prepared pan, flattening it evenly using a spoon coated lightly with butter to prevent sticking.
- Spread Dulce de Leche: Evenly spread the dulce de leche over the first layer of the rice krispies mixture.
- Top with Remaining Mixture: Add the remaining rice krispies mixture on top of the dulce de leche, pressing lightly and evenly to form the top layer.
- Set and Serve: Allow the treats to set at room temperature until completely cooled and firm, then cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Use cinnamon sugar flavored Rice Krispies for best results; if unavailable, stir in ¼ cup cinnamon sugar to plain Rice Krispies.
- To brown butter, watch for foam and brown flecks; remove promptly to avoid burning.
- Using a butter-coated spoon helps press the mixture into the pan without sticking to hands.
- Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or freeze for up to 6 weeks for longer storage.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
