Description
A sophisticated twist on a classic childhood favorite, these no-bake treats use browned butter for a nutty, caramel-like depth, finished with flaky sea salt for the perfect sweet-and-salty balance.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter
- 10 ounces (280g) marshmallows (standard or mini)
- 6 cups (approx. 190g) Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt (plus more for topping)
- Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips
- Optional: ½ cup crushed pretzels
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides, and grease lightly with butter or cooking spray.
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the butter foams, settles, and turns a deep amber color with a nutty aroma (about 4-5 minutes). Do not burn.
- Remove the pan from heat and immediately add the marshmallows and vanilla extract. Stir constantly until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy (2-3 minutes).
- Pour the marshmallow mixture over the Rice Krispies cereal. Gently fold the cereal into the mixture until every piece is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Wet your hands with water or butter and press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt immediately while the surface is still sticky.
- Let the treats cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes until set.
- Use the parchment sling to lift the treats out of the pan and cut into squares or rectangles.
Notes
Brown butter is delicious but burns easily; keep heat at medium and watch closely. Work quickly when combining cereal as the mixture hardens fast. Wet hands or grease them to prevent sticking when pressing the treats. Store at room temperature for best texture; refrigeration makes marshmallows hard. These freeze well for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 22
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 3.5
- Carbohydrates: 32
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 2
Keywords: brown butter, rice crispy treats, no-bake dessert, easy dessert, sea salt, nutty flavor, quick treats, family favorite