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Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats

salted caramel Rice Krispie treats - featured image

These Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats are a nostalgic, chewy dessert bar with a grown-up twist—homemade salted caramel blended right into the marshmallow base and finished with flaky sea salt. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or whenever you need an easy, show-stopping treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into cubes (plus more for greasing pan)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
  • 9 cups mini marshmallows (about 1 1/2 bags)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Flaky sea salt, for topping

Instructions

  1. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. Lightly butter the paper.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup sugar, swirling occasionally (do not stir) until deep amber, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add 6 tablespoons butter to the melted sugar (it will bubble), then stir until smooth.
  4. Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup heavy cream. Let bubble for 1-2 minutes until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt. Set aside to cool slightly.
  5. In a large heavy-bottomed pot, melt 4 tablespoons butter over low heat. Add 9 cups mini marshmallows and stir constantly until melted and smooth, about 3-4 minutes.
  6. Pour the slightly cooled caramel into the melted marshmallow mixture. Stir until fully combined and glossy.
  7. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
  8. Remove from heat and fold in 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal with a buttered spatula until evenly coated.
  9. Scrape mixture into prepared pan. Gently press into an even layer with buttered parchment or greased hands (do not pack too hard).
  10. Sprinkle generously with flaky sea salt while still warm.
  11. Let cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes (or chill in fridge for 15 minutes).
  12. Lift out using parchment and slice into squares or bars with a sharp, greased knife.

Notes

For best results, use fresh marshmallows and melt them slowly over low heat. Don’t over-pack the mixture into the pan to keep the bars chewy. You can make these gluten-free by using certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal and vegan by swapping in plant-based butter, coconut cream, and vegan marshmallows. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 1 month.

Nutrition

Keywords: salted caramel, rice krispie treats, dessert bars, easy dessert, potluck, marshmallow, caramel, no bake, sweet and salty, kid friendly