Description

Delight in the rich and gooey Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats—a decadent twist on the classic cereal snack. Browned butter adds a deep nutty flavor while dulce de leche layers bring luscious caramel sweetness to each bite. Perfect as a sweet treat for gatherings or an indulgent snack, these treats are easy to prepare with a delightful texture of crispy cereal and soft marshmallows.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

5 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
10 cups mini marshmallows (divided)
6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1/2 teaspoon fine-grain sea salt
1/2 can (approximately 7 ounces) dulce de leche

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Instructions

Prepare the Pan: Lightly spray a 9×9-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray to ensure the treats do not stick during setting.
Brown the Butter: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter while stirring constantly. Continue cooking until the butter turns a golden brown color and releases a nutty aroma, which intensifies the flavor.
Melt Marshmallows: Add 8 cups of the mini marshmallows to the browned butter in the pot. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt to enhance sweetness and balance flavors.
Combine with Cereal: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Rice Krispies cereal with the melted marshmallow mixture, stirring until the cereal is evenly coated. Then, fold in the remaining 2 cups of mini marshmallows to add extra texture.
Assemble Layers: Press half of the Rice Krispies mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan to create the first layer. Evenly spread the dulce de leche over this base layer. Top with the remaining Rice Krispies mixture, pressing gently to form a smooth, even surface.
Set and Serve: Allow the layered treats to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes so they firm up sufficiently. Once set, cut into squares and serve.

Notes

Make sure to constantly stir the butter when browning to prevent burning and achieve the perfect nutty flavor.
You can adjust the amount of dulce de leche to your taste preference for sweetness and creaminess.
Press the mixture firmly into the pan to help the treats hold together well once cooled.
If you prefer, substitute the mini marshmallows for regular marshmallows but cut them into smaller pieces for easier melting.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.