Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats with Toasted Marshmallows Recipe

If you’re craving a treat that feels like a cozy hug wrapped up in gooey, crunchy layers, you absolutely must try Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats with Toasted Marshmallows. This recipe takes the classic childhood favorite to extraordinary heights by browning the butter for a deeper, nuttier flavor and adding toasted marshmallows that bring a caramelized, toasty magic to every bite. The subtle hints of vanilla and a touch of rum add sophistication, while crunchy pretzels and creamy white chocolate pieces make each mouthful an irresistible blend of textures and tastes. Trust me, once you make these, your snack game will never be the same!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe comes together with a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role in the final flavor and texture of your Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats with Toasted Marshmallows. From that beautifully browned butter to the crunchy pretzels and sweet, toasty marshmallows, everything works in harmony to create an extraordinary snack.

• 20 ounces mini marshmallows (12 cups, divided): Dividing the marshmallows lets you toast some for extra flavor and texture while keeping some soft for gooey pockets.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick): Browning this butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the treat far beyond ordinary.
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher or sea salt: A pinch of salt balances sweetness and enhances depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract: Adds warmth and sweetness that complements the brown butter beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon dark rum (optional): For a subtle, boozy note that adds complexity without overpowering.
• 4 cups Rice Krispies cereal (115g): The classic crunchy base that provides lightness and crisp texture.
• 2 cups mini pretzels (broken into ½- to 1-inch pieces, 100g): Salty, crunchy, and perfect for contrast against the sweetness.
• 6 ounces chopped white chocolate or white chocolate chips: Creamy pockets that melt gently into the treats for that extra indulgence.

How to Make Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats with Toasted Marshmallows

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Toast the Marshmallows

Start by lining your pan with foil or parchment and spraying it generously with non-stick spray. This will make removing your treats a breeze later on. Then, set your oven to broil and prepare a baking tray lined with foil and sprayed well. Separate 2 cups of marshmallows to reserve, and place the remaining 10 cups on the tray. Broil them briefly—just 30 seconds to 90 seconds—until they’re beautifully golden and toasted on top. Watch them carefully as they can burn fast. This toastiness is what gives your Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats with Toasted Marshmallows that unforgettable depth and charm.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

Melt your butter slowly over medium-low heat in a heavy pot. Stir consistently with a silicone spatula, scraping the bottom to prevent burning. You’ll know you’re there when the butter turns a gorgeous golden brown and fills the kitchen with that wonderful nutty aroma. Be vigilant; once it starts browning, it can go from perfect to burnt quickly. This step is key to unlocking the rich flavor that sets these treats apart.

Step 3: Combine Butter and Toasted Marshmallows

Immediately lower the heat and add the toasted marshmallows to the browned butter. Stir them gently until mostly melted, leaving a few lumps for texture and goo. Turn off the heat, then stir in the salt, vanilla, and optional rum. This mixture is the flavor powerhouse of your Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats with Toasted Marshmallows, blending rich, sweet, and slightly salty notes.

Step 4: Fold in the Cereal, Pretzels, and Reserved Marshmallows

Next, stir in the Rice Krispies cereal, crushed pretzels, and the 2 cups of reserved mini marshmallows that you didn’t toast. The pretzels add a salty crunch that balances the sweet, while the extra marshmallows create delightful pockets of softness throughout.

Step 5: Add White Chocolate and Press Into Pan

Finally, toss in the chopped white chocolate or chips, stirring until everything is well incorporated. Quickly transfer the mixture into your prepared pan and gently press it to create an even surface, being careful not to press too hard—this helps keep the treats soft and chewy. To avoid stickiness, use the reserved butter wrapper or lightly spray your fingers or spatula. Let cool completely to room temperature before slicing into perfect squares.

How to Serve Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats with Toasted Marshmallows

Garnishes

Enhance your serving presentation and flavor by sprinkling a few extra toasted marshmallows or crushed pretzel pieces on top just before the treats set fully. A drizzle of melted white chocolate over the cooled treats also adds a lovely finishing touch that’s both elegant and delicious.

Side Dishes

These treats pair magnificently with a simple cup of hot cocoa or a creamy latte for an indulgent snack break. If you’re serving at a party, fresh berries or a light fruit salad balance the richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, cut the treats into bite-sized squares and thread them onto skewers alternating with fresh strawberries or marshmallows for a playful, shareable dessert. You can also sandwich a dollop of peanut butter or Nutella between two squares for an irresistibly gooey sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats with Toasted Marshmallows fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to 3 days, but they usually disappear fast!

Freezing

To freeze, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen treats can last about 2 months. Let them thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them.

Reheating

If you want that freshly-made gooey feel after freezing, pop the treats in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This will soften them just enough without melting the white chocolate completely.

FAQs

Can I skip the dark rum?

Absolutely! The rum is optional and simply adds a subtle depth of flavor. Your Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats with Toasted Marshmallows will still be delicious without it.

What’s the best way to toast marshmallows evenly?

Using your oven’s broiler with a foil-lined tray works best. Keep a close eye and rotate the tray as needed to ensure an even golden brown without burning.

Can I use regular-sized marshmallows instead of mini?

You can, but mini marshmallows are preferred because they melt more quickly and blend evenly into the mixture for the perfect texture.

How can I make the treats less sweet?

Try reducing the white chocolate or swapping the mini pretzels with a less salty nut like almonds to balance the sweetness with a bit more crunch.

Can I use a different cereal?

Rice Krispies provide the classic texture, but if you want a twist, lightly crushed cornflakes or a puffed rice cereal will work, though the texture will be slightly different.

Final Thoughts

If you want to elevate a nostalgic snack or impress with a simple yet extraordinary dessert, these Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats with Toasted Marshmallows are a must-make. The toasted marshmallows and brown butter take the classic recipe to new delicious heights, while the salty pretzels and white chocolate create that perfect balance of flavors and textures. I promise once you try them, you’ll be making this recipe again and again. So grab your ingredients, preheat that broiler, and get ready to indulge in one of the most comforting and scrumptious treats ever!

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