If you’re on the hunt for a nostalgic treat with a sophisticated twist, the Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe is here to steal your heart. These delightful squares combine the classic chewy crunch of Rice Krispies with the rich, nutty flavor of browned butter and the irresistible caramel sweetness of luscious dulce de leche. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or craving a special indulgence, this recipe elevates a familiar favorite into a truly memorable dessert experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s a comforting simplicity to the ingredients in this Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe, but don’t let that fool you. Each component plays a crucial role—from the nutty depth of browned butter, to the creamy sweetness of dulce de leche, down to the textural magic of the marshmallows and cereal.
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter: The base that gets browned for a warm, nutty flavor that transforms the whole treat.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a subtle aromatic sweetness to round out the rich flavors.
- 10 cups mini marshmallows (divided): Provide that soft, gooey binding agent and extra malleability when used in layers.
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal: The crispy crunch and lightness that make these treats so iconic and fun.
- 1/2 teaspoon fine-grain sea salt: Balances the sweetness perfectly and enhances the buttery notes.
- 1/2 can (approximately 7 ounces) dulce de leche: The silky caramel layer that elevates these treats into pure decadence.
How to Make Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Start smart by lightly spraying a 9×9-inch baking pan with non-stick spray. This simple step ensures your final creation lifts out cleanly without sticking, making serving a breeze and keeping your squares perfectly intact.
Step 2: Brown the Butter
This step is where the magic begins. Melt the butter slowly over medium heat, stirring constantly. Watch closely as it changes from a pale yellow to a lovely golden brown, releasing a delicious, nutty aroma that signals it’s ready. This browning adds a whole new flavor dimension you won’t want to skip.
Step 3: Melt Marshmallows
Now add 8 cups of mini marshmallows right into the browned butter. Stir patiently until they melt into a smooth, sticky syrup. After removing from heat, stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt. This mixture combines warm, soft sweetness with a subtle salty hint, creating the perfect marshmallow glaze.
Step 4: Combine with Cereal
Place your Rice Krispies cereal in a large bowl and pour the luscious marshmallow mixture over it. Mix well until all the cereals are evenly coated. Then, fold in the remaining 2 cups of mini marshmallows for extra chew and texture—this surprise addition keeps every bite exciting.
Step 5: Assemble Layers
Half of the Rice Krispies mix goes into the prepared pan, pressed down evenly but gently. Next, spread the dulce de leche all over this layer like a rich caramel blanket. Finally, top with the remaining Rice Krispies mixture, pressing softly to create a smooth, uniform surface that’ll hold the layers beautifully.
Step 6: Set and Serve
The hardest part might be waiting. Let your masterpiece cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes to firm up. Once set, slice into squares and prepare to delight in a perfect balance of crispy crunch, buttery depth, and caramel charm.
How to Serve Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top just before serving. It accentuates the dulce de leche’s sweetness and adds a little sparkle to each bite. You can also drizzle melted dark chocolate or white chocolate over the top for those times when you want to impress with presentation.
Side Dishes
These treats shine perfectly on their own but also pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk or a cup of rich coffee. If serving at a party, complement them with fresh fruit slices or a light sorbet to balance the richness and add freshness to the flavor palette.
Creative Ways to Present
For an adorable twist, cut the treats into bite-sized cubes and thread them onto skewers alternating with marshmallows and berries for a fun party snack. You could also sandwich a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two Rice Krispies squares for an irresistible frozen dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe squares in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and chewy for up to 3 days—perfect for enjoying throughout the week or sharing with friends.
Freezing
If you want to keep these treats longer, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen, they retain their delicious texture and flavor for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
While these treats are delicious cold or at room temperature, you can lightly microwave a square for about 10 seconds to warm the dulce de leche layer and soften the butter notes. Just be careful not to overheat, or they’ll become too sticky and lose their crunch.
FAQs
Can I use regular-sized marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Absolutely! If you don’t have mini marshmallows on hand, roughly chop regular-sized marshmallows so they melt more evenly. The texture might vary slightly, but the taste will remain just as fantastic.
Is it necessary to brown the butter?
While you could skip browning the butter, browning adds a rich, nutty depth of flavor that truly elevates this recipe. It makes a noticeable difference and is well worth the extra attention and care.
Can I substitute dulce de leche with caramel sauce?
You can, but keep in mind that dulce de leche has a thicker texture and deeper, creamier flavor than typical caramel sauce. If using caramel, opt for a thicker, less runny version to avoid soggy treats.
What’s the best way to cut the treats without them sticking to the knife?
Use a sharp knife sprayed lightly with non-stick cooking spray or warm the knife slightly under hot water and then dry it. This helps make clean cuts and prevents sticking or tearing.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to this recipe?
Definitely! Chopped toasted pecans or almonds add a lovely crunch that pairs beautifully with the buttery dulce de leche layer. Just fold them in with the cereal before pressing into the pan.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about the way simple ingredients like butter, marshmallows, and cereal come together in the Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe. The nutty richness coupled with gooey caramel sweetness creates an irresistible treat that’s sure to become a cherished favorite. I can’t wait for you to make this recipe and share the joy with your loved ones — happy baking!
