Browned Butter Vanilla Rice Krispie Treats

User Reviews

4.9

114 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    10 mins

  • Cook Time

    3 mins

  • Total Time

    13 mins

  • Servings

    24 Squares (9X13-inch pan)

  • Course

    Dessert

  • Cuisine

    American

Browned Butter Vanilla Rice Krispie Treats

Browned Butter Vanilla Rice Krispie Treats combine rich, caramel-flavored browned butter with melted marshmallows and crispy rice cereal to produce chewy, flavorful bars. The browned butter adds a nutty depth uncommon in classic recipes. Vanilla and kosher salt enhance the taste, while careful pressing ensures a soft texture without becoming overly firm. These treats are a nostalgic yet slightly elevated dessert or snack option.

Description

This recipe starts by browning salted butter, which brings out a deeper, caramel-like aroma and flavor uncommon in traditional rice krispie treats. Marshmallows are then melted into the browned butter with vanilla extract and a pinch of kosher salt to balance the sweetness and emphasize the butter's richness. The rice cereal is carefully folded in, and the mixture is transferred to a buttered pan where it is pressed gently to avoid compacting.

The contrast of soft, chewy marshmallow and crisp rice cereal creates a pleasant texture throughout each square. Pressing the mixture lightly helps maintain chewiness rather than making the treats hard or dense. The vanilla extract adds warmth and complexity, complementing the nutty browned butter notes.

These treats can be served as a sweet snack or dessert, and a suggested variation includes adding crushed Oreo cookies for added texture and flavor contrast. Allowing the mixture to cool completely before slicing ensures clean edges and proper set.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • ½ cup butter salted
  • 16 ounces marshmallows large
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract pure
  • Pinch kosher salt coarse
  • 9 cups rice cereal i.e. Rice Krispies, crisp

Instructions

  1. Butter the bottom and sides of a 9X13-inch pan. Set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter on low heat and let it cook until the solids start to turn golden brown and it smells caramelly and fragrant (here's a browned butter how-to if you'd like a visual).
  3. Add the marshmallows and cook on low, stirring constantly until mostly melted, a few small lumps here and there are ok. Add the vanilla and salt and stir to combine.
  4. Remove the pan from the heat and add the rice krispies. Stir until evenly combined.
  5. Scrape the mixture into the prepared pan and using lightly greased or barely wet (with cold water) hands, lightly press the mixture into the pan (mashing them too hard and you'll end up with very firm rice krispie treats - so use a gentle hand if you want them chewy). Let cool before slicing into squares.

Notes

  • The use of browned butter adds a deeper flavor than melted butter alone, enhancing the overall taste of the treats.
  • Press the mixture gently into the pan to keep the treats chewy rather than overly firm.
  • For a variation, incorporate crushed Oreos into the mix before setting for added texture and flavor.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Serving 1 Square Calories 121kcal (6%) Carbohydrates 22g (7%) Protein 1g (2%) Fat 4g (6%) Saturated Fat 2g (10%) Cholesterol 10mg (3%) Sodium 49mg (2%) Fiber 1g (4%) Sugar 11g (22%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 24Squares (9X13-inch pan)

Amount Per Serving

Calories kcal

% Daily Value*

Serving 1 Square
Calories 121kcal 6%
Carbohydrates 22g 7%
Protein 1g 2%
Fat 4g 6%
Saturated Fat 2g 10%
Cholesterol 10mg 3%
Sodium 49mg 2%
Fiber 1g 4%
Sugar 11g 22%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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Overall Rating

4.9

114 reviews
Excellent

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