Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats
Posts may contain affiliate links, meaning that I may earn a commission if you use a link provided.
These Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats are the upgraded version of your favorite childhood snack. They’re gooey, rich, and packed with nutty flavor, thanks to deeply toasted butter and extra gooey marshmallows. Once you try them, you’ll never go back to the basic kind.
With only four ingredients and no baking required, this recipe comes together quickly and delivers the perfect soft-and-chewy texture. The brown butter adds so much depth, giving these treats a slightly caramelized, toasted flavor that’s impossible to get from regular butter alone.
I’ve made plenty of Rice Krispie treats over the years, including this bakery style Rice Krispie treats and peanut butter and chocolate rice krispie treats, but this brown butter version is something special.
They’re a hit at bake sales, potlucks, or anytime you want an easy no-fuss dessert that people will ask for again and again.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Only 4 ingredients and no baking required.
- Brown butter adds a rich, toasty, buttery flavor.
- Extra marshmallows make them super gooey and soft.
- Simple enough for beginners, impressive enough for guests.
- Perfect for sharing, gifting, or freezing for later.
Ingredients for Browned Butter Rice Krispie Treats
This section includes ingredient notes and substitution options. Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable recipe card at the end of this post.
- Salted butter – Where the magic happens. I use salted butter for added flavor and a nice balance between the salty and the sweet. If using unsalted butter, add a pinch of salt.
- Mini marshmallows – You’ll need two 10-ounce bags of mini marshmallows. If necessary, you can use regular marshmallows to melt down, but be sure to use minis to mix in. Or chop up the regular-sized ones.
- Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth. Almond extract can also be used for a slightly different flavor.
- Rice Krispies cereal – I use and recommend classic Kellogg’s Rice Krispies over other brands of crispy rice cereal.
How to Make Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats
This section shows you how to make the recipe with step-by-step photos and instructions. For the full printable recipe, see the recipe card below.
Step 1: Melt the butter over low-medium heat in a large pot or Dutch oven. As it cooks, stir frequently until the butter starts to turn a golden brown color. You’ll see it start to froth, you’ll see milk solids form, and it will have a nutty aroma. Once this happens, reduce the heat to low.
Pro Tip:
The lighter the color of the butter, the lighter the less pronounced the nutty flavor will be. If you want a nuttier taste, cook it until it is a dark golden brown. (But be careful not to burn it!)
Step 2: Immediately add 9 cups of marshmallows. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are melted and completely combined.
Step 3: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Then, add the rice cereal and remaining marshmallows. Stir until the cereal is completely coated with the marshmallow mixture.
Step 4: Transfer the mixture to a prepared 9×13 pan. Use lightly greased hands or a rubber spatula to spread the mixture and gently press it down into an even layer. Let it cool to room temperature before slicing and serving.
Storage
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. Note: freezing may slightly change the texture.
Recipe Tips
- Open your marshmallows bags, cereal box, and measure everything before you start. Once the butter browns, you’ll need to move fast, so have your marshmallows, vanilla, and cereal ready to go.
- Brown the butter low and slow to avoid burning. Do not try and rush it. It can go from nutty browned butter to burnt butter quickly.
- No need to strain the milk solids (the brown floating bits). They add loads of flavor.
- Press the Rice Krispie mixture down into the pan very gently. If you pack it down too hard, they will be firm and dense instead of light and chewy.
More Treats with Rice Krispies
Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats
Ingredients
- 10 Tablespoons salted butter
- 20 ounces mini marshmallows divided (about 12 cups)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Instructions
- Line a 9 x 13 pan with parchment paper and lightly coat it with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
- Before you begin, measure out all your ingredients and place nearby the stove. Once the butter browns, you’ll need to work quickly and won’t have time to open bags or measure.
- In a large pot or dutch oven, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the butter turns a golden brown color, becomes frothy, and starts to smell nutty. This should take about 5-7 minutes.10 Tablespoons salted butter
- Once the butter is browned, reduce the heat to low and immediately add 1 ½ bags (~9 cups) of marshmallows. Stir continuously until melted and smooth.20 ounces mini marshmallows
- Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Add the Rice Krispies cereal and the remaining marshmallows. Stir until the cereal is coated with the marshmallow mixture. The marshmallows do not have to be fully melted.6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- Quickly transfer the mixture to the pan. Gently press into an even layer using greased hands or a piece of parchment. Do not press hard and overpack the marshmallow mixture.
- Let cool at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours before slicing.
Notes
Nutrition
Did You Make This Recipe?
Share it with me on Instagram @crayonsandcravings and follow on Pinterest @crayonsandcravings for even more!
