Rice Krispie Treats with Browned Butter

A square on a spatula held above a pan full of browned butter Rice Krispie treats

Rice Krispie Treats with Browned Butter

These Browned Butter Rice Krispie Treats are soft, chewy, and packed with rich nutty brown butter flavor. An easy gourmet twist on the classic marshmallow cereal treat everyone loves.

Prep Time15

Cooling Time1

Total Time1 15

Servings:

Calories: 162kcal

Author: Karin and Ken

Ingredients

½ cup salted butter or unsalted with a pinch of salt
3 cups mini marshmallows
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
6 cups Rice Krispies or rice cereal

Instructions

Measure the marshmallows, vanilla extract, and salt ahead of time, then set them aside so they're ready to add immediately after removing the browned butter from the heat.
Melt your butter in a pot over medium heat.
As the butter cooks, it will foam and bubble vigorously. Continue stirring frequently and watch for golden brown specks to form at the bottom and the butter to develop a rich, nutty aroma. Once it reaches a deep amber color, remove it from the heat immediately to prevent burning.
Immediately add the marshmallows, vanilla, and salt. Stir until the marshmallows finish melting.
Fold in the rice cereal and make sure it is evenly coated in the melted marshmallow mixture.
Spread your rice krispie mixture into a 9x13 inch baking pan and let the bars cool on the counter for an hour.
Slice and serve.

Notes

Best texture tips: Use fresh mini marshmallows for the smoothest gooey texture, or measure large marshmallows by weight and allow extra melting time. Press the mixture gently so the bars stay soft and chewy instead of dense.
Perfect the brown butter: Stir the butter frequently while browning to prevent burnt bits on the bottom of the pan. Once it foams and turns a deep amber color, briefly remove it from the heat if needed to avoid burning. Add a pinch of extra salt and vanilla extract to balance and enhance the rich nutty flavor.
Easy prep tricks: Grease your spatula to prevent sticking, use a larger pan or two 9x13 pans if doubling the recipe, and store the treats covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutrition