Name: Decadent Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats You'll Love
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 stick Unsalted Butter (Adds richness and flavor; keep it unsalted for better salt control.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances overall sweetness and aroma; using vanilla bean paste can intensify the flavor.); 8 cups Mini Marshmallows (The key binding agent; ensure they’re fresh for the best chewy texture.); 6 cups Rice Krispies Cereal (Brings crunch and texture; consider using cinnamon sugar-flavored Rice Krispies for extra deliciousness.); 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (Balances the sweetness, enhancing flavors; fine grain integrates smoothly into the mixture.); 1 cup Dulce de Leche (Infuses a creamy, rich sweetness; alternatively, you can use caramel sauce if preferred.)

As the sweet scent of brown butter wafts through your kitchen, you might think a simple indulgence is just moments away. Enter my Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats—a twist on the familiar favorite that brings warmth and nostalgia right to your table. This no-bake dessert comes together in about 10 minutes, making it a stress-free option for both seasoned cooks and those new to the kitchen. The soft, chewy texture beautifully complements the satisfying crunch of Rice Krispies, while the decadent layers of dulce de leche create a treat that’s truly unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply pampering yourself, these treats are the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Curious about how to elevate this classic recipe? Let’s dive in!

Why are these Rice Krispie Treats special?

Indulgence, the rich flavor of brown butter combined with creamy dulce de leche creates a dessert experience that’s beyond ordinary. Quick and easy, in just 10 minutes, you’ll have an impressive treat ready for any occasion. Family-friendly, kids and adults alike will adore this no-bake delight. Versatile, swap in flavored Rice Krispies or marshmallows for a fun twist! These decadent treats are sure to steal the spotlight. Pair them with a cup of coffee alongside Onion Butter Rice for an indulgent snack break!

Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Ingredients

For the Base

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; keep it unsalted for better salt control.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall sweetness and aroma; using vanilla bean paste can intensify the flavor.
Mini Marshmallows – The key binding agent; ensure they’re fresh for the best chewy texture.
Rice Krispies Cereal – Brings crunch and texture; consider using cinnamon sugar-flavored Rice Krispies for extra deliciousness.
Sea Salt – Balances the sweetness, enhancing flavors; fine grain integrates smoothly into the mixture.

For the Sweetness

Dulce de Leche – Infuses a creamy, rich sweetness; alternatively, you can use caramel sauce if preferred.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats

Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Begin by greasing a 9×9-inch baking pan with non-stick spray. Once coated, line the pan with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over the sides for easy removal later. This step ensures your Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats won’t stick, making for a hassle-free serving experience.

Step 2: Brown the Butter
In a large pot, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter over medium heat, stirring frequently to promote even cooking. Keep an eye on it as it turns golden and develops a nutty aroma, typically taking about 3 to 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you see brown flecks forming at the bottom, so remove it from the heat immediately to prevent burning.

Step 3: Melt the Marshmallows
Add 8 cups of mini marshmallows to the browned butter, stirring until they are fully melted and smooth, which may take about 2-3 minutes on low heat. If the mixture becomes too thick, you can return it to low heat briefly. The blending of brown butter and marshmallows will create a creamy, rich base for your Rice Krispie Treats.

Step 4: Enhance with Vanilla and Salt
Once your marshmallows are melted, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt, mixing well to combine. The vanilla will elevate the sweetness, while the salt balances the overall flavor, enhancing your Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats. Be sure to turn off the heat to prevent any further cooking.

Step 5: Combine with Rice Krispies
Next, pour the entire melted marshmallow mixture over 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal in a large mixing bowl. Gently fold the cereal into the marshmallow mix using a spatula, ensuring every piece is evenly coated. The contrast between the gooey marshmallow and crispy cereal forms the delightful texture of these treats.

Step 6: Layer the Mixture
Take half of the Rice Krispie mixture and press it evenly into the prepared pan, ensuring it covers the bottom completely. Use a buttered spatula or your hands to avoid sticking. This forms the base layer that will hold the rich layers of dulce de leche in your decadent Rice Krispie Treats.

Step 7: Spread the Dulce de Leche
Now, take your dulce de leche and spread it evenly over the Rice Krispie layer, allowing it to coat the bottom layer generously. The creamy sweetness of the dulce de leche adds a luxurious touch to your treats, contrasting beautifully with the chewy texture of the Rice Krispies.

Step 8: Finish with the Second Layer
Finally, drop spoonfuls of the remaining Rice Krispie mixture over the dulce de leche layer, pressing it gently into place for a cohesive top layer. Make sure it’s evenly distributed for balanced bites. Allow the completed assembly to cool at room temperature until set, typically about 30 minutes.

Step 9: Slice and Serve
Once fully cooled, grasp the edges of the parchment paper to lift the entire slab out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and slice into squares or bars. Your Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats are now ready to serve, bringing smiles and satisfaction to all who indulge.

What to Serve with Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats

Imagine gathering around the table, laughter filling the air as you bring together flavors that complement these delightful treats.

Rich Hot Chocolate: A cozy mug of hot chocolate pairs perfectly, enhancing the sweetness of the treats while providing a comforting warmth.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast between cold and chewy textures.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, tangy fruits like strawberries and pineapple add a refreshing element that cuts through the decadence of rice Krispie treats.
Espresso or Coffee: Enjoying these treats with a bold espresso or freshly brewed coffee creates a delightful balance between sweet and bitter.
Nutty Charcuterie Board: Curate a selection of nuts, cheeses, and dried fruits to provide varied textures and flavors that accompany the treats beautifully.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle warm chocolate over the treats before serving to elevate their indulgence and provide a touch of elegance.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top enhances the flavors, creating a festive touch that resonates with the warm spices of the season.

Treat your loved ones to these pairings and watch as they savor each bite of the Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats!

Make Ahead Options

These Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the Rice Krispie mixture and the dulce de leche layer up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers. To maintain the delightful texture, keep the Rice Krispie mix at room temperature and refrigerate the dulce de leche. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer the Rice Krispie mixture and dulce de leche in the prepared pan and allow the treats to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing. This way, you can enjoy delicious, homemade treats with minimal effort, perfect for any occasion!

Expert Tips for Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats

Brown Butter Care: Pay close attention when browning the butter; it can transition from perfect to burned quickly. Remove it from heat as soon as you notice brown flecks.
Fresh Marshmallows: Ensure your mini marshmallows are fresh for that dreamy, chewy texture. Stale marshmallows won’t bind properly, leading to crumbly treats.
Grease the Pan: Always grease your pan well with non-stick spray, and use parchment paper for easy removal. This ensures your Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats come out perfectly!
Pressing Trick: Use a buttered spatula or a greased hand to press the mixture into the pan. This prevents sticking and ensures an even layer for maximum enjoyment.
Allow to Set: For the best texture, let your treats cool completely before slicing. Cutting too soon can lead to a mushy mess instead of perfect, chewy squares.

Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these treats to suit your taste buds!

Cinnamon Sugar Rice Krispies: Swap standard Rice Krispies for cinnamon sugar-flavored ones for a warm, spiced flavor. It adds a delightful hint of sweetness, making each bite even more irresistible.
Peanut Butter Delight: Substitute dulce de leche with creamy peanut butter for a nutty twist that’s sure to satisfy nut lovers. The combination of flavors creates a rich, satisfying treat.
Chocolate Drizzle: Top the finished treats with melted chocolate for a decadent touch. A sprinkle of sea salt on the chocolate can balance the sweetness beautifully.
Flavored Marshmallows: Try using flavored marshmallows, such as caramel or peppermint, to introduce a new dimension of flavor into your treats. Each variation will surprise and delight!
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the mix for added texture and a nutty flavor boost. This variation not only adds crunch but also brings in a wonderful flavor contrast.
Dulce de Leche Swirl: Instead of layering dulce de leche, swirl it through the marshmallow mixture before adding the Rice Krispies. This creates a marbled effect and bursts of flavor in every bite.
Chili Chocolate: For a spicy kick, mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder with the chocolate drizzle. It can elevate the sweetness and add a unique flavor profile.
Serve with a Twist: Pair your treats with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm cup of coffee. These simple additions can complement the sweetness beautifully, creating a delightful dessert experience.

Feel inspired? Now you can explore even more delightful variations like serving these treats with Persian Inspired Rice or Alfredo Lasagna Soup for a comforting meal pairing! Enjoy customizing and sharing these sweet delights!

How to Store and Freeze Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats

Room Temperature: Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them soft and chewy.

Fridge: For longer life, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week. This helps maintain their freshness and flavor.

Freezer: If you’d like to store them for a longer period, freeze for up to 6 weeks. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, allow the treats to thaw in the fridge or at room temperature. For a slight warm-up, microwave for 5-10 seconds.

Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe FAQs

What type of butter should I use for the best flavor?
I highly recommend using unsalted butter for this recipe. It allows you to control the overall saltiness of your treats better and enhances the natural nutty flavor you get from browning the butter. The richness that unsalted butter brings is simply unmatched!

How should I store leftover Rice Krispie Treats?
Absolutely! To keep your Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerating them will extend their freshness to about a week. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying them again!

Can I freeze Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats?
Yes, you can! For longer storage, wrap your Rice Krispie Treats tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be successfully frozen for up to 6 weeks. When you’re ready to indulge, simply let them thaw in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours.

What should I do if my mixture is too sticky to handle?
If your Rice Krispie mixture feels too sticky, don’t worry! Use a lightly greased spatula or your hands (with a little non-stick spray) to press it firmly into the pan. You can also slightly dampen your hands with water to make it easier to handle. Just be cautious not to add too much moisture—the goal is to keep that chewy texture intact!

Is this recipe suitable for those with allergies?
While these treats are delightful, they do contain common allergens such as butter and marshmallows, which often include gelatin. If you’re preparing these for someone with food allergies, I recommend checking labels carefully or looking for allergy-friendly substitutes, such as vegan butter and marshmallows. Always prioritize safety!

Can I use other types of cereal instead of Rice Krispies?
Absolutely! For a fun twist, you can swap Rice Krispies with other crispy cereals like cornflakes or even cinnamon sugar-flavored Rice Krispies for added flavor. Each variation brings a unique taste and texture, so feel free to get creative and adapt it to your family’s favorites!