Description
Deliciously chewy and nutty Brown Butter Rice Crispy Treats made by browning butter for a rich, caramelized flavor, then combining it with melted marshmallows and crispy rice cereal. These treats are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, perfect for an easy and satisfying snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Brown Butter Mixture
- 2 sticks (226 grams) unsalted butter
- 2 10-ounce bags of mini marshmallows
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Cereal
- 9 cups (225 grams) crispy rice cereal
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Pan: Spray a 9x13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray or grease it generously with a stick of butter to prevent sticking.
- Browning the Butter: Melt the butter in a large stainless steel pan over medium-low heat. Swirl the pan occasionally as the butter cooks until it becomes foamy and starts to crackle and pop audibly. When the popping stops, continue swirling until the butter develops a nutty aroma and brown bits form at the bottom, about 2-3 minutes after the crackling ends.
- Add Marshmallows and Flavorings: Reduce the heat to low and add the mini marshmallows, vanilla extract, and kosher salt to the browned butter. Stir constantly until all marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat promptly to avoid burning.
- Combine with Cereal: Quickly add the crispy rice cereal to the marshmallow mixture and stir with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon until the cereal is evenly coated with the mixture.
- Transfer to Pan and Press: Transfer the coated cereal mixture into the prepared baking pan. Using your spatula, wooden spoon, or damp fingers, gently press the mixture into an even layer. Press firmly enough to bind the treats without compressing too tightly so they remain chewy once set.
- Cool and Cut: Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour to set. Once cooled, cut into 12 squares for serving.
- Storage: Store the cut treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and chewiness.
Notes
- Be careful not to burn the browned butter; remove it promptly after brown bits form and the nutty aroma develops.
- Use a stainless steel pan for browning butter as it allows for better heat control and prevents burning compared to nonstick pans.
- Press the cereal mixture gently to keep the treats chewy rather than dense and hard.
- Use mini marshmallows for easier melting and a smoother mixture.
- These treats are best enjoyed within 2 days for optimal texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
