This is the BEST recipe for Rice Krispie treats! The secret is to brown the butter first. This adds so much nuttiness and richness and is really what sets them apart from store-bought Rice Krispie squares. A quick, no-bake dessert that everyone will love!
Looking for more easy recipes? Try my Oatmeal Cookies next!
About This Recipe
Nothing brings me back to the days of elementary school bake sales quite like homemade Rice Krispie treats! I remember always lining up for one and fidgeting in my pockets for my 50 cents. Back then, I always wondered why homemade Rice Krispies were better than store-bought. I made them many times, but I could never replicate the flavor that other parents could pull off.
Eventually, I learned that the secret was to brown your butter. Which isn't something I learned until way later in life! It's a simple step, but it makes all the difference. Browning the butter adds so much richness and nuttiness.
The important thing is to make sure you don't BURN the butter. There is a very fine line between perfect, golden brown butter and burnt, bitter butter. The time frame is only about 30-60 seconds, so make sure you're paying attention and don't cook it on high heat! Once the butter turns golden brown and you start to see little brown specks at the bottom, it's done! The brown specks are the milk solids from the butter, which separate from the butter at high temperatures, and then turn brown, which gives the butter that amazing nutty flavor!
Key Ingredients
Rice Krispies cereal: Of course, we need some Rice Krispies cereal! This is just puffed rice, so you can really use any brand you want.
Marshmallows: I recommend mini marshmallows because they melt more easily.
Unsalted butter: I recommend unsalted butter so we can control the salt levels better. If you decide to use salted butter, skip the ½ teaspoon of salt in the recipe.
Vanilla extract: A teaspoon of vanilla extract really elevates the flavor.
Salt: To bring out all the flavors.
Instructions
STEP 1: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
STEP 2: Once the butter is melted, let it cook for another 3 to 4 minutes. The butter should start to turn golden brown, and little brown specks will form at the bottom.
STEP 3: Add the marshmallows and stir until melted. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, then remove from the heat.
STEP 4: Add the Rice Krispies cereal and mix until combined.
STEP 5: Transfer the mixture to the baking dish and gently flatten it with a rubber spatula (or wet your hands with warm water).
STEP 6: Allow the Rice Krispies to set in the fridge for 60 minutes before cutting and eating.
📋 Recipe
Best Rice Krispie Treats
Ingredients
- ¾ cup unsalted butter
- 2 (10-ounce) bags mini marshmallows
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 10 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Instructions
- Gently grease a 9x13 baking dish with butter, then line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, let it cook for another 3 to 4 minutes. The butter should start to turn golden brown, and little brown specks will form at the bottom. Immediately add the marshmallows and stir until melted. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, then remove from the heat.
- Add the Rice Krispies cereal and mix until combined. Transfer the mixture to the baking dish and gently flatten it with a rubber spatula (or wet your hands with warm water). Allow the Rice Krispies to set in the fridge for 60 minutes before cutting and eating.
ejherrick
FYI - 2x10 oz bags are a 400 gm bag in Canada. 😊