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Brown Butter Pretzel Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats

brown butter pretzel salted caramel Rice Krispie treats - featured image

These Brown Butter Pretzel Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats combine nutty brown butter, gooey marshmallows, crunchy pretzels, and a salted caramel drizzle for a grown-up twist on a childhood favorite. Quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser, they’re perfect for parties, bake sales, or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter
  • 1 (10 oz/283g) bag mini marshmallows, plus 1 extra cup (about 30g) for folding in at the end
  • 6 cups (150g) Rice Krispies cereal
  • 1 1/2 cups (75g) pretzel twists, roughly crushed
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) salted caramel sauce, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Place 1/2 cup unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Let it melt, then swirl or stir as it foams and begins to turn golden brown. Watch for tiny brown specks and a nutty smell. Remove from heat once browned (about 5 minutes).
  2. Lower the heat and add 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows. Stir constantly until fully melted and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Remove the pan from heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/4 cup salted caramel sauce. The mixture will bubble slightly.
  4. Add 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal and 1 1/2 cups roughly crushed pretzel twists. Gently fold together. Add the extra cup of marshmallows now for extra gooeyness.
  5. Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment or foil. Lightly butter your hands or use a greased spatula, then press the mixture evenly into the pan. Use gentle pressure for chewy bars.
  6. Drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup salted caramel sauce over the top. Sprinkle evenly with 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt.
  7. Let the treats cool at room temperature for at least 15 minutes, or until set. For clean cuts, chill in the fridge for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

For gluten-free treats, use gluten-free pretzels and cereal. For dairy-free, use vegan butter and marshmallows, and check caramel sauce ingredients. Don’t rush browning the butter—watch for golden specks and a nutty aroma. Press mixture gently for chewy bars. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown butter, rice krispie treats, salted caramel, pretzel, easy dessert, no bake, cereal bars, party snacks, bake sale, kid friendly