As I stood in my kitchen one afternoon, the nutty aroma of browned butter wafted through the air, transporting me back to my childhood—all it needed was a touch of nostalgia. Enter my Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats: a delightful marriage of crunchy and chewy that takes the classic dessert to a whole new level. This no-bake treat packs all the delightful flavors we love, while only requiring 10 minutes of your time for prep. With its rich, creamy dulce de leche and the warm depth of browned butter, it’s bound to impress friends and family alike. Plus, you can easily switch it up with cinnamon sugar Rice Krispies for an extra kick! So, are you ready to treat yourself? Why Will You Love These Treats? Simplicity at Its Best: Whip up this dessert in just 10 minutes—perfect for busy lives! Indulgent Flavors: The rich, nutty flavor of browned butter combined with creamy dulce de leche creates a decadent treat that everyone will go crazy for. Nostalgic Twist: Enjoy a childhood classic reimagined with a gourmet touch that will have you reminiscing with every bite. Versatile Options: Want to mix things up? Try using cinnamon sugar Rice Krispies for a delightful twist that adds warmth and spice! Crowd-Pleasing Delight: These Rice Krispie treats are perfect for parties or gatherings; everyone loves a good treat that’s easy to share! No-Bake Convenience: No oven? No problem! These Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats are as easy as they come—just mix, press, and chill. For even more easy dessert options, check out my delicious Decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies or try these delightful Pudding Rice Krispie Treats that also offer maximum flavor with minimal effort! Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Ingredients For the Base Butter – Use unsalted butter for control over the sodium content. Mini Marshmallows – Provide essential sweetness and help bind the treats. Aim for extra chewy bites by using some marshmallows in the mixture. Rice Krispies Cereal – Gives that classic crunch; try cinnamon sugar-flavored ones for added warmth and spice. For Flavoring Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; swap with almond extract for a unique twist. Sea Salt – Balances the sweetness beautifully; use a fine grain to ensure even distribution. For the Indulgent Layer Dulce de Leche – Adds a rich, creamy sweetness and luxurious texture, or use caramel sauce as a substitute if needed. Let’s make these delightful Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats and enjoy a bite of nostalgia today! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Step 1: Prepare Pan Start by greasing a 9×9-inch pan with non-stick spray to prevent sticking. For extra reassurance, line the bottom and sides with foil or parchment paper, and spray again. This will ensure easy removal of your delicious Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats later on. Step 2: Brown Butter In a light-colored saucepan, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter over medium heat, stirring constantly. Keep a close eye on it, as the butter can quickly turn brown. After about 5-7 minutes, you’ll notice a nutty aroma and the butter will have turned a golden brown with tiny flecks. This is your perfect browned butter! Step 3: Melt Marshmallows Once the butter is browned, add 8 cups of mini marshmallows and ½ teaspoon of sea salt to the pan. Stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes, returning the pan to low heat if necessary, until the mixture is completely smooth and gooey. The marshmallows should melt into a luscious blend with the brown butter. Step 4: Combine Cereal In a large mixing bowl, add 6 cups of Rice Krispies. Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the cereal, gently folding them together until each Rice Krispie is well coated. While the mixture is still warm, incorporate any remaining marshmallows for delightful chewy bites within your Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats. Step 5: Layer in Pan Transfer half of the Rice Krispie mixture into the prepared pan. Press it down evenly with a spatula or a buttered spoon to create a solid base. Next, generously spread a layer of dulce de leche over the base, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Top with the remaining Rice Krispie mixture and lightly press down to level it off. Step 6: Set and Cool Allow your layered Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until fully set. This waiting time lets the treats firm up, making it easier to cut them into squares later on, giving you that delightful chewy but firm texture you adore! Expert Tips for Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Perfect Butter Browning: Keep a close watch while browning butter; it can burn quickly. Remove from heat once you see golden brown flecks and smell a nutty aroma. Easy Pressing Technique: Use a buttered spatula or spoon to press the mixture into the pan without it sticking to your hands, ensuring an even layer. Room Temperature Setting: Let the Rice Krispie Treats cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to set properly. This helps achieve the ideal chewy texture. Extra Chewy Treats: For delightful pops of sweetness, reserve a handful of mini marshmallows to mix in just after combining with the Rice Krispies. Scaling Up: Want to make more? Double the recipe and use a 9×13-inch pan for larger batches that are perfect for sharing at events. Flavor Variations: Experiment by incorporating cinnamon sugar Rice Krispies or adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet-and-salty twist in your Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats! Storage Tips for Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days to maintain softness and flavor. Fridge: Refrigerate for up to a week, but keep in mind that the texture may become firmer when chilled. Enjoy them at room temperature for a softer bite! Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 6 weeks. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or reheat slightly in the microwave to restore softness. Reheating: If refrigerating, you can gently warm the Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a delightful, melty experience. What to Serve with Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Elevate your dessert experience by pairing these delicious treats with complementary flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold decadence of vanilla ice cream offers a perfect contrast to the chewy richness of the Rice Krispie treats, making for a delightful combination. Espresso or Coffee: A warm cup of coffee or a shot of espresso enhances the nutty flavor, creating a comforting pairing that’s equally indulgent. Fresh Berries: Lighten up the sweetness with a side of tart berries, such as raspberries or strawberries. Their natural acidity beautifully balances the rich flavors. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the treats for an extra layer of indulgence. The rich chocolate adds a luscious depth that complements the dulce de leche. Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture that contrasts with the soft, chewy goodness of the Rice Krispie treats. The nuttiness amplifies the brown butter flavor, creating a harmonious blend. Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream atop each treat adds a fluffy texture that pairs well with the dense, rich flavors of the dessert. Caramel Sauce: For a double dose of sweetness, serve with a side of caramel sauce for dipping or drizzling, enhancing that indulgent feel. Milk: A classic pairing, an ice-cold glass of milk complements these treats perfectly, making them a nostalgic favorite for both kids and adults alike. Your Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats become a centerpiece of indulgence when enjoyed with these delicious pairings! Make Ahead Options These Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the marshmallow mixture and press it into the pan up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply spread the dulce de leche over the chilled base, add the remaining Rice Krispie mixture, and let it set at room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing. This way, you’ll have a delicious and indulgent treat with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights just a little sweeter! Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these scrumptious treats with delightful twists! Cinnamon Sugar Swap: Use cinnamon sugar-flavored Rice Krispies for a warm and cozy spice that dances on your palate. This simple swap takes the flavor profile to the next level. Nutty Addition: Toss in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and a touch of earthiness. The contrast of textures truly elevates this nostalgic treat. Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a rich contrast to the sweetness. Whether dark or milk, this will surely be a crowd-pleaser! Salted Caramel Layer: Replace dulce de leche with your favorite salted caramel sauce for a sweet and salty twist, creating a blend of indulgent flavors in every bite. Marshmallow Peeps: For some fun appeal, use colorful marshmallow Peeps instead of mini marshmallows. These small tweaks can brighten up gatherings or celebrations! Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the marshmallow mixture for a surprising sweet-heat. Just a hint will delight adventurous taste buds! Sprinkles Galore: Throw in some festive sprinkles when combining the Rice Krispies and marshmallow mixture for a playful touch. Perfect for birthdays or celebrations! For more delicious ideas, consider pairing these treats with my rich and satisfying Garlic Butter Steak Bites or the creamy goodness of Garlic Butter Mushroom Stuffed Chicken for a delightful dinner experience! Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe FAQs What is the best way to choose ripe ingredients for this recipe? For the best results, use fresh, soft mini marshmallows that are not stale. Check the packaging date to ensure they’re within their best usage time. Similarly, choose a high-quality unsalted butter for flavor—look for a creamy texture without any off odors. If using dulce de leche, opt for a brand with a smooth texture and rich color; avoid any that contain dark spots or a hard consistency. How should I store Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats? These treats can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. For a longer shelf life, refrigerate them where they will last for about a week—though they may become firmer in the fridge. I recommend bringing them back to room temperature for the best texture before eating. Can I freeze Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats? Absolutely! For freezing, cut the treats into squares and individually wrap them in plastic wrap or foil. Place them in a freezer-safe container, and they can last for up to 6 weeks. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften up. What should I do if my Rice Krispie Treats are too sticky? If your treats are overly sticky, it’s possible there’s too much marshmallow or not enough Rice Krispies. To troubleshoot, you can add more Rice Krispies gradually, mixing until you achieve the desired consistency. Alternatively, letting them set a bit longer at room temperature can help them firm up for easier handling. Are there any dietary concerns for pets or allergies with this recipe? Yes, keep in mind that both marshmallows and chocolate—common additions—can be harmful to pets, particularly dogs. Additionally, be cautious if serving to individuals with allergies to dairy, gluten, or nuts. Adjustments can be made by substituting ingredients, such as using dairy-free butter and marshmallows! Can I customize the recipe with different flavors? Very! You can use flavored Rice Krispies, add a sprinkle of cinnamon, or mix in chocolate chips for a delicious variation. Feel free to play around with the dulce de leche by trying caramel sauce for a different flavor twist, while keeping the essence of the Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats intact. Irresistible Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats are a festive dessert combining crunchy Rice Krispies with rich dulce de leche and nutty brown butter. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCooling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 12 treatsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base0.5 cups Unsalted Butter Use unsalted butter for control over sodium content.8 cups Mini Marshmallows Aim for extra chewy bites by using some marshmallows in the mixture.6 cups Rice Krispies Cereal Try cinnamon sugar-flavored ones for added warmth and spice.For Flavoring1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Enhances the overall flavor; swap with almond extract for a unique twist.0.5 teaspoon Sea Salt Balances sweetness beautifully; use a fine grain for even distribution.For the Indulgent Layer1 cup Dulce de Leche Adds rich, creamy sweetness and luxurious texture. Equipment 9×9-inch panLight-colored saucepanspatula Method Step‑By‑Step InstructionsStart by greasing a 9×9-inch pan with non-stick spray to prevent sticking. For extra reassurance, line the bottom and sides with foil or parchment paper, and spray again.Melt ½ cup of unsalted butter over medium heat, stirring constantly, until golden brown with a nutty aroma—about 5-7 minutes.Add 8 cups of mini marshmallows and ½ teaspoon of sea salt to the browned butter, stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until smooth.In a large bowl, add 6 cups of Rice Krispies and pour the melted marshmallow mixture over it, folding carefully until coated.Transfer half of the Rice Krispie mixture into the prepared pan, press it down to create a solid base. Spread a layer of dulce de leche, then top with remaining mixture.Allow to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until set for easier cutting. Nutrition Serving: 1treatCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 1gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 60mgPotassium: 25mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg NotesStore in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days; refrigerate for up to a week but may become firmer when chilled. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
