Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that brings a smile to everyone’s face, look no further than these Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats! This recipe is truly special because it takes the classic Rice Krispie treat and elevates it with the warm, nutty flavor of brown butter and the rich sweetness of dulce de leche. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these treats are perfect for any occasion.

There’s something magical about the combination of gooey marshmallows and crispy cereal that makes these bars irresistible. They are easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy, making them a favorite in our household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have these delicious treats ready in no time.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the chewy goodness of Rice Krispie treats with that extra touch of sweetness!
• Make Ahead: These treats store well, so you can prepare them in advance for parties or snacks throughout the week.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your own twist—mix in some chocolate chips or nuts for an extra crunch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create a delightful dessert. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to make your Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats:

• 5 Tablespoons Butter
• 1/4 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• 10 Cups Mini vegan marshmallows (divided)
• 6 Cups Rice Krispies Cereal (cinnamon sugar flavored, see note)
• 1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt (fine grain)
• 1/2 Can Dulce de Leche

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Chocolate: Mix in some dairy-free chocolate chips for a delightful chocolatey twist.
• Nutty Delight: Toss in some chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for added crunch.
• Seasonal Flavors: Try adding pumpkin spice or cinnamon during the fall for a seasonal treat.
• Fruit Fun: Fold in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a fruity surprise.

How to Make Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by spraying a 9×9-inch pan with non-stick spray. Then, line it with foil or parchment paper—this makes it easier to lift out your treats later. Spray again for good measure!

Step 2: Brown the Butter

Place a large pot on medium heat and add your butter. Let it melt slowly until it turns golden brown and has a lovely nutty aroma. This step is crucial because browning the butter enhances its flavor, giving your treats that rich taste we all love.

Step 3: Melt the Marshmallows

Once your butter is browned, remove it from heat and add the salt along with 8 cups of mini vegan marshmallows. Stir until everything melts into a smooth mixture. If needed, return it to low heat just long enough to finish melting—be careful not to let it burn!

Step 4: Mix in Vanilla

After achieving that creamy consistency, add your vanilla extract and give it another stir. The vanilla adds an additional layer of flavor that complements the brown butter beautifully.

Step 5: Combine with Rice Krispies

In a large bowl, measure out your rice krispies cereal. Pour your melted marshmallow mixture over the cereal and mix well until every piece is coated. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 6: Fold in Additional Marshmallows

While the mixture is still warm, fold in the remaining mini vegan marshmallows for extra gooeyness. This helps create little pockets of melty marshmallow throughout your treats.

Step 7: Layer with Dulce de Leche

Now for one of my favorite parts! Lightly press about half of the rice krispies mixture into your prepared pan. Spread dulce de leche evenly on top—it adds such delightful sweetness!

Step 8: Finish Off Your Treats

Top off with the remaining rice krispies mixture and press down gently until it’s evenly spread in the pan. Let your creation set at room temperature until cooled completely before cutting into squares.

And there you have it—delicious Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats

Creating the perfect batch of Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats is all about the details, and I’ve got some great tips to help you shine in the kitchen!

• Use fresh ingredients: Always check the expiration dates on your marshmallows and butter. Fresh ingredients yield the best flavor and texture for your treats.
• Monitor the browning process: Keep a close eye on your butter as it browns. It can go from perfectly nutty to burnt very quickly, so be ready to remove it from heat at just the right moment.
• Mix gently: When combining the melted marshmallows with the Rice Krispies, mix gently to avoid crushing the cereal. This helps maintain that delightful crunch in each treat.
• Let them cool completely: Patience is key! Allowing your treats to set at room temperature ensures they hold their shape well when cut into squares.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor boost. It makes these treats even more irresistible!

How to Serve Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats

Serving these delightful treats is a fun opportunity to get creative! Whether it’s for a party or a cozy night in, here are some ideas to make these treats stand out.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some crushed walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and a beautiful presentation.
• Drizzle of chocolate: A light drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate can add a decadent touch that complements the sweetness of dulce de leche.
• Sea salt flakes: Just a pinch of flaky sea salt on top enhances the flavors beautifully and gives a gourmet touch.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of berries, melons, and citrus adds a refreshing contrast to the rich sweetness of your treats.
• Vegan ice cream: Serve these rice krispie treats alongside scoops of your favorite vegan ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
• Chocolate-dipped strawberries: These luscious berries provide a fruity and slightly tart balance to the sweet, sticky rice krispies.
• Nutty granola: A small bowl of crunchy granola can offer a satisfying textural contrast when enjoyed alongside your bars.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats will surely impress friends and family alike. Enjoy every gooey, crunchy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and store them for a quick sweet snack or dessert whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• If you live in a warm climate, consider refrigerating them to prevent melting.

Freezing

• Wrap individual treats in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

• If you prefer them warm, microwave the treats for about 10-15 seconds.
• Avoid overheating to prevent the marshmallows from becoming too gooey.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delicious treats, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini vegan marshmallows for Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats?

Yes, you can substitute regular marshmallows if you’re not looking for a vegan option. Just keep in mind that the taste will slightly differ.

How do I ensure my Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats turn out perfectly?

The key is to watch your butter closely while browning it—stop as soon as it reaches a golden brown color. Also, make sure to stir thoroughly when combining the melted marshmallows with the cereal.

Can I add other ingredients to my Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.

What is dulce de leche, and can I make it at home?

Dulce de leche is a sweet caramel-like sauce made by slowly heating sweetened milk. You can make it at home using sweetened condensed coconut milk as an alternative!

How long do these treats last?

When stored properly, your Brown Butter Dulce de Leche Rice Krispie Treats will stay fresh for up to three days at room temperature or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy to your kitchen just as it does to mine! The combination of rich brown butter and luscious dulce de leche creates an indulgent treat that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re making them for yourself or sharing with friends and family, I’m sure they’ll be a hit. Enjoy every gooey bite and feel free to experiment with your favorite mix-ins! Happy cooking!