Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats

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Rich, gooey, and irresistibly decadent, these Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats take your classic childhood snack to a whole new level. By browning the butter and swirling in luscious dulce de leche, this upgraded version is nutty, caramelly, and satisfyingly chewy in every bite. It’s a no-bake treat that feels gourmet with minimal effort.

Perfect for parties, after-school snacks, or when you simply want to indulge your sweet tooth, these treats offer a beautiful balance between nostalgia and sophistication. The toasted aroma of brown butter combined with the sweet creaminess of dulce de leche makes each bar completely irresistible.

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Ingredients for this Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 10 oz mini marshmallows
• 1/2 cup dulce de leche, plus more for drizzling
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 6 cups crispy rice cereal
• Nonstick spray or butter for the pan

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Step 1

Prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish by spraying it with nonstick spray or lightly buttering it. Set aside.

Step 2

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring often, until the butter turns golden brown and starts to smell nutty, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 3

Add the mini marshmallows to the browned butter. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are fully melted and smooth.

Step 4

Stir in the dulce de leche and sea salt until completely incorporated and the mixture is glossy.

Step 5

Remove the pan from heat and quickly fold in the crispy rice cereal, mixing gently until all the cereal is coated with the marshmallow mixture.

Step 6

Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish using a spatula or clean hands lightly greased with butter. Flatten the top evenly.

Step 7

Drizzle additional dulce de leche over the top if desired. Let the treats cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares.

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Storage Instructions

Store the Rice Krispie treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To extend freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze individual squares wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per square (based on 16 servings):

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Sugar: 17g
• Protein: 1g
• Sodium: 90mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini?

Yes, use about 40 regular-sized marshmallows as a substitute for the 10 oz mini marshmallows.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, substitute with vegan butter, vegan marshmallows, and a dairy-free caramel spread.

Is dulce de leche the same as caramel?

Not exactly. Dulce de leche is made by slowly heating sweetened milk, giving it a creamier, milkier taste than traditional caramel.

How can I make the treats less sweet?

You can reduce the amount of dulce de leche and use unsweetened puffed rice cereal.

Why brown the butter?

Browning the butter enhances its flavor, giving it a nutty, toasty depth that elevates the overall taste of the treats.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?

Absolutely. Stir them in with the cereal before pressing the mixture into the pan.

Do I have to refrigerate these treats?

No, they are best stored at room temperature unless you want them to last longer.

How do I prevent the treats from sticking to my hands?

Lightly grease your hands or spatula with butter or cooking spray before pressing the mixture into the pan.

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