Caramel Rice Krispie Treats
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Rice krispie treats get a fall makeover with the addition of caramel! Kids and adults can’t resist the gooey caramel goodness in these easy caramel rice krispie treats.
The recipe itself consists of the usual butter, marshmallows, and Rice Krispies cereal. These caramel Rice Krispie treats have a sweet caramel aspect due to the addition of sweetened condensed milk and actual caramels.
You can use the good old Kraft caramel squares. They work great for this. However, I use a combination of the Kraft caramels and some Mrs. Call’s sea salt caramels I picked up at Costco. I loved the added sea salt flavor they added to these bars.
Now, my husband is not a big Rice Krispie treat fan like me. However, he loved these and couldn’t get enough of them. The other funny thing is that he is not a big caramel fan, either. This tells me they should be a hit with EVERYONE.
Ingredients to Make Caramel Rice Krispie Treats
- CARAMEL SQUARES
- BUTTER
- SWEETENED CONDENSED MILK
- MINIATURE MARSHMALLOWS
- RICE KRISPIE CEREAL
How to Make Caramel Rice Krispie Treats
Start by unwrapping the caramels and adding them to a large pot with the butter. Set the heat to medium and stir constantly to prevent the mixture from burning or sticking to the pot. Continue stirring for about 5-7 minutes until the caramels and butter are fully melted and combined into a smooth, velvety mixture. This caramel-butter base will give your Rice Krispie treats that rich, indulgent flavor.
Once the butter and caramel completely melt together, pour in the sweetened condensed milk. Stir the mixture until the milk is fully incorporated and smooth. The sweetened condensed milk adds an extra layer of creaminess, making the treats even more decadent. Stir the mixture for about 1-2 minutes until everything is well-blended.
Now, it’s time to add the mini marshmallows to the caramel mixture. Stir them in gently but consistently until the marshmallows melt completely. This step creates the soft, gooey texture that holds the Rice Krispie cereal together. Keep the heat on medium to avoid burning the marshmallows, stirring until no lumps are left.
Combine with Rice Krispie Cereal
Remove the pot from the heat and carefully pour the Rice Krispie cereal into the pot with the caramel marshmallow mixture. Using a large spatula, gently fold the cereal into the caramel mixture. Be sure to coat every piece of cereal evenly, working quickly while the mixture is still warm and pliable. This step may take a few minutes to ensure the cereal is fully coated.
Once the Rice Krispie mixture is fully coated, transfer it to a greased 9 x 13-inch baking pan. Use a spatula or your hands (lightly greased with cooking spray) to press the mixture evenly into the pan. Make sure to press it down firmly to get a nice, even layer, but don’t press too hard, as this can make the treats too dense.
Allow the Rice Krispie treats to cool at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This step lets the caramel set slightly before the next step, making it easier to chill them properly in the fridge.
Once the treats have cooled to room temperature, place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours. Chilling the treats will make them firmer and easier to cut into clean, even squares. This also enhances the chewy texture and makes the flavors more cohesive.
Slice and Serve
After the treats are fully chilled, remove the pan from the fridge and use a sharp knife to cut them into squares. The chilled texture makes them easier to slice and adds a satisfying chew when eating them. Serve these treats cold for the best texture and flavor!
These Caramel Rice Krispie Treats are an easy, no-bake dessert that combines gooey caramel, marshmallows, and crispy cereal for the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. They’re perfect for a party, potluck, or just as a sweet snack to keep in the fridge!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prevent the treats from becoming hard?
Avoid overcooking the caramel or marshmallow mixture. Low heat and careful stirring will help maintain a soft texture.
Can I add extra ingredients like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to add mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or even sprinkles to customize your treats. Make sure to add these extras when you combine the caramel mixture with the Rice Krispie cereal.
How should I store Caramel Rice Krispie Treats?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for a longer shelf life. If you prefer to keep them soft, store them at room temperature.
Can I freeze Rice Krispie treats?
Yes, Rice Krispie treats can be frozen. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last up to 6 weeks in the freezer. Thaw at room temperature before eating.
FOR MORE RECIPES LIKE THIS, TRY:
- The BEST Rice Krispie Treats
- Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats
- Red Velvet Cake Krispie Treats
- No Bake Reese’s Krispie Treats
Caramel Rice Krispie Treats
Real Mom Kitchen
Equipment
Ingredients
- 16 oz caramel squares unwrapped
- ½ butter
- 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
- 10 oz bag plus 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 9 cups rice krispie cereal
Instructions
- Spray a 9″ x 13″ baking dish with cooking spray, and set it aside. Measure the rice krispie cereal into a large bowl and set aside.
- In large pot, melt the butter and the unwrapped caramels over medium heat until combined until smooth. Mix in sweetened condensed milk until combined.
- Add in the marshmallows and stir until they are completely melted.
- Pour the caramel mixture over the rice krispe cereal and stir until all of the cereal is coated.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and press to even out. Allow it to cool to room temperature and then chill in the refrigerator until cold. Cut into squares. We like to eat these cold. Serves 15.
Nutrition
This recipe is adapted from My Recipe Treasures.
