Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: Easy Dessert Recipe

Hey there, dessert lovers! Are you ready to take your Rice Krispie Treat game to the next level? Forget those basic, marshmallow-only squares. We're diving headfirst into a world of gooey caramel, rich chocolate, and a hint of sea salt that will make your taste buds sing. These Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats are ridiculously easy to make, yet they deliver an explosion of flavor that's anything but ordinary. Trust me, once you try these, you'll never go back to the standard recipe again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let's be honest, Rice Krispie Treats are already a classic for a reason – they're simple and satisfying. But this recipe? This is the upgrade you didn't know you needed. Here's why you'll be obsessed:

• Elevated Flavors: The combination of sweet caramel, rich chocolate, and the subtle salty kick is pure genius. It's a sophisticated twist on a childhood favorite.

• Easy to Make: Seriously, if you can melt butter and stir, you can make these. No baking required! The hardest part is waiting for them to set.

• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you need a quick dessert for a potluck, a treat for the kids, or a little something special for yourself, these bars are always a hit.

• Customizable: Want to add nuts? Use a different kind of chocolate? Go wild! This recipe is a fantastic base for your own creative experiments.

• Crowd Pleaser: Everyone loves Rice Krispie Treats, but the addition of salted caramel makes them truly irresistible. Watch them disappear in minutes

Tools You’ll Need

Having the right tools makes any recipe easier and more enjoyable. Here are my must-have tools for these Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats (all available on Amazon – wink, wink):

1. 9x13 Inch Baking Pan: A good quality baking pan ensures even setting. I love this USA Pan Bakeware Rectangular Cake Pan 9 x 13 inch because it's nonstick and durable.

2. Large Mixing Bowl: You'll need a bowl big enough to hold all those Rice Krispies! The OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl Set is a great investment.

3. Silicone Spatula: Essential for stirring and spreading the mixture without sticking. The DI ORO - Chef Series Flexible Silicone Spatulas are heat-resistant and easy to clean.

4. Saucepan: For melting the butter and making the caramel. The All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel Sauce Pan is a reliable choice that heats evenly.

5. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to perfect results. Pyrex Smart Essentials Mixing Bowl Set This includes a three mixing bowl set, measuring cups, and measuring spoons.

6. Parchment Paper: Lining the pan with parchment paper makes it super easy to remove the treats. I always have a roll of Reynolds Kitchens Parchment Paper on hand.

7. Candy Thermometer (Optional): I recommend using a candy thermometer for accuracy when cooking your caramel. ThermoPro TP03 Digital Instant Read Meat Thermometer is great for use.

8. Microwave-Safe Bowl: For melting the chocolate. Anchor Hocking 8-Inch Glass Bowl is great for microwaving your chocolate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here's what you'll need to create these decadent treats. I've also included some of my favorite brand recommendations for the best results:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies Cereal: The classic! Use the original Kellogg's Rice Krispies for that signature crunch.

• 10 oz Marshmallows: Jet-Puffed Marshmallows are my go-to for their consistent melt and sweetness.

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) Unsalted Butter: I prefer using Kerrygold Irish Butter for its rich flavor, but any good quality unsalted butter will work.

• 1 cup Caramel Candies: Werther's Original Chewy Caramels are perfect for this recipe because they melt smoothly and have a great caramel flavor.

• 2 tablespoons Heavy Cream: This helps create a smooth and creamy caramel.

• 4 oz Semi-Sweet Chocolate: Ghirardelli Semi-Sweet Chocolate Baking Bar is my favorite for melting and drizzling.

• 1 teaspoon Coconut Oil (Optional): This helps the chocolate melt smoothly and gives it a glossy finish.

• Flaky Sea Salt: Maldon Sea Salt Flakes are the perfect finishing touch for that sweet and salty contrast.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Here's a detailed guide to making these amazing Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Set Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pan: Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will make it easy to lift the treats out later.

2. Melt the Butter: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Be careful not to brown it.

3. Add the Marshmallows: Add the marshmallows to the melted butter and stir constantly until they are completely melted and smooth. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat.

4. Incorporate the Rice Krispies: Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until everything is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture. Work quickly to prevent the marshmallows from hardening.

5. Press into the Pan: Pour the Rice Krispie mixture into the prepared pan. Use a silicone spatula or your hands (lightly greased) to press the mixture evenly into the pan.

6. Make the Caramel: Place the caramel candies and heavy cream in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the caramels are melted and smooth.

7. Pour the Caramel: Pour the melted caramel evenly over the Rice Krispie mixture in the pan.

8. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. If using, stir in the coconut oil for a glossy finish.

9. Drizzle the Chocolate: Drizzle the melted chocolate over the caramel layer. Use a fork or spoon to create a decorative pattern.

10. Sprinkle with Sea Salt: Immediately sprinkle the flaky sea salt over the chocolate.

11. Let it Set: Let the treats set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or until the caramel and chocolate have hardened. You can also chill them in the refrigerator for a faster set.

12. Cut and Serve: Once the treats are set, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve.

Tips for Perfect Treats

Want to make sure your Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats are absolutely perfect? Here are a few tips and tricks:

• Don't Overcook the Marshmallows: Overcooked marshmallows will result in hard, chewy treats. Melt them gently and remove from heat as soon as they are smooth.

• Work Quickly: Once the marshmallows are melted, work quickly to incorporate the Rice Krispies and press the mixture into the pan. The mixture will harden as it cools.

• Grease Your Hands: Lightly greasing your hands with butter or cooking spray will prevent the Rice Krispie mixture from sticking to them when pressing it into the pan.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh marshmallows and cereal will give you the best texture and flavor.

Variations to Try

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few fun variations to try with this recipe:

• Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the Rice Krispie mixture for added crunch and flavor.

• Peanut Butter Swirl: Swirl a few tablespoons of melted peanut butter into the melted chocolate before drizzling it over the caramel layer.

• White Chocolate Raspberry: Use white chocolate instead of semi-sweet and sprinkle freeze-dried raspberries over the chocolate for a fruity twist.

Why These Cookies Stand Out

These aren't just your average Rice Krispie Treats. The combination of the chewy caramel, the rich chocolate drizzle, and the pop of sea salt elevates them to a whole new level of deliciousness. They're sweet, salty, crunchy, and gooey all at once – a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. Plus, the ease of making them makes them a perfect choice for any occasion.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

• Storing: Store the Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be stored in the refrigerator for longer storage, but they may become slightly harder.

• Serving: Serve the treats at room temperature for the best texture. They're perfect as a snack, dessert, or party favor. You can also cut them into smaller squares for a bite-sized treat.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – a simple yet sensational recipe for Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats that will impress your friends, delight your family, and satisfy your sweet tooth. These treats are so easy to make, and the combination of flavors is simply irresistible. What are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get ready to experience the best Rice Krispie Treats you've ever had!

Now, tell me in the comments below, what variations will you create with this recipe? I want to see your best recipes!

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