Caramelized Brown Butter Rice Krispies Treats

Caramelized Brown Butter Rice Krispies Treats

This absurdly easy recipe came to The Times from Colin Alevras, then the chef at the Tasting Room in New York, which, until it closed in 2008, offered Rice Krispies treats every day, and made more for Halloween. Browning the butter elevates these plebeian snacks into something more toothsome, and it adds just an extra couple of minutes to the process. They’re so good. (The original recipe called for one bag of marshmallows, but after retesting, we've updated it to call for two bags. This should yield a chewier, gooier treat.)

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces butter

    salted or unsalted, preferably cultured, plus extra for pan

  • 2 10 1/2-ounce bag marshmallows

    see note

  • 1 12-ounce box Rice Krispies cereal

Directions

  1. 1

    Line rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper or wax paper, or butter it well.

  2. 2

    In a large pot, melt butter over medium-low heat. It will melt, then foam, then turn clear golden and finally start to turn brown and smell nutty. Watch closely and stir often.

  3. 3

    When butter is evenly browned, stir in marshmallows. (If using unsalted butter, stir in 1/8 teaspoon salt.) Melt and cook, stirring often, until mixture turns pale brown, then stir constantly until lightly browned but not dark, 3 to 5 minutes.

  4. 4

    Turn off heat, add cereal, and mix well, preferably with a silicone spoon or a spatula. Scrape into prepared pan and press down lightly. If necessary, butter hands to press mixture flat. Let cool, and cut into squares or bars.

Caramelized Brown Butter Rice Krispies Treats

Caramelized Brown Butter Rice Krispies Treats

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About this Recipe

Ready to transform a childhood classic into an unbelievably sophisticated dessert? These Caramelized Brown Butter Rice Krispies Treats elevate a simple snack into something truly special, perfect for any occasion.

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to these extraordinary treats lies in the caramelized brown butter. This simple technique adds a deep, nutty, and complex flavor that sets these apart from any ordinary Rice Krispies treat you've ever had. Plus, using two bags of marshmallows ensures an irresistibly chewy and gooey texture, a direct improvement from earlier versions, guaranteeing a more satisfying bite every time.

What to Expect

Prepare for a taste sensation that will surprise and delight. You'll bite into a treat that is wonderfully chewy and delightfully gooey, permeated with the rich, warm notes of browned butter. The classic crispy texture of the cereal provides the perfect contrast to the soft, sweet marshmallow base. This isn't just a snack; it's a nostalgic experience made grown-up, delivering depth of flavor in every bite.

Customization & Variations

While perfect as is, you can play with the butter choice. The recipe suggests preferably cultured butter for an even richer depth of flavor, but both salted or unsalted butter will work beautifully. If you prefer a slightly saltier contrast, opt for salted butter.

Serving & Context

These elevated Rice Krispies Treats are fantastic for parties, potlucks, or as a comforting dessert after any meal. They're a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults, making them an ideal treat for celebrations or a delightful surprise in a lunchbox.

Frequently Asked Questions