Homemade Caramel Rice Krispie Treats
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If you’re looking for a sweet and simple treat to whip up with the family this weekend, these Homemade Caramel Rice Krispie Treats are just the thing. They’re gooey, chewy, and packed with buttery caramel flavor—perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth and creating a little kitchen fun with the kids. The recipe starts with classic Rice Krispies cereal, which gets coated in a rich, homemade, simple caramel sauce and pressed into a pan to set. Once cooled, just slice into squares and enjoy!
I usually make mine in a 9×13-inch baking dish, which gives you thick, satisfying bars that are perfect for sharing (or sneaking a second one!). If you prefer a thinner, crispier version, you can easily press the mixture into a sheet pan instead. Either way, these treats are quick to make, easy to customize, and always a hit at gatherings, bake sales, or cozy nights at home.
One of the things I love most about these bars—aside from how delicious they are—is how well they hold up over time. Thanks to the buttery caramel coating, they stay soft and chewy for days, making them a fantastic make-ahead treat. You can store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll still taste just as fresh and irresistible a few days later. That means less stress if you’re prepping for a party or just want something sweet on hand for the week!
A quick heads-up before you dive in—this recipe makes a generous batch, so you’ll need a super large bowl to combine everything. If you’re like me and don’t have one quite big enough, no worries! I simply divide the mixture between two large bowls, which makes it much easier to stir everything together without making a mess. It’s a small adjustment that keeps the process smooth and stress-free, especially when little hands want to help mix!
Ingredients for Homemade Caramel Rice Krispie Treats
- BUTTER
- CORN SYRUP
- BROWN SUGAR
- SWEETENED CONDENSED MILK
- VANILLA
- SALT
- CRISPY RICE CEREAL
Instructions for Homemade Caramel Rice Krispie Treats
Start by measuring out your Rice Krispies cereal into a very large mixing bowl—you’ll need plenty of room to stir once the caramel is added. If you don’t have a bowl big enough (I don’t either!), just divide the cereal between two large bowls. It makes mixing much more manageable and keeps everything from spilling over the sides.
Next, grab a large saucepan and melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s fully melted, stir in the corn syrup and brown sugar. Keep stirring as the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Let it boil for 3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning and to help everything blend smoothly.
Now it’s time to add the sweetened condensed milk. Stir it in until the mixture is well combined, then bring it back to a boil. Again, let it boil for 3 more minutes, stirring the whole time. Once that’s done, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Carefully pour the hot caramel mixture over your cereal. If you’re using two bowls like I do, just eyeball it and divide the caramel roughly between them. Stir gently but thoroughly until all the cereal is evenly coated in that luscious caramel.
Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray, then press the caramel-coated cereal mixture into the pan. Don’t press too hard—you want the bars to stay soft and chewy. Let them cool for about 30 minutes, then slice into squares. This recipe makes about 15 generous bars, perfect for sharing (or sneaking one for yourself!).
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don’t have a large mixing bowl?
No problem! Just divide the cereal into two large bowls like I do. It makes mixing much easier and helps evenly coat the cereal with caramel without making a mess.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Stir in mini chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or even a handful of crushed pretzels after mixing in the caramel. Just let the caramel cool slightly before adding chocolate so it doesn’t melt too quickly.
How long do these treats stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they’ll stay soft and chewy for up to 5 days. They’re great for making ahead or packing in lunchboxes.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I use a different cereal?
Rice Krispies work best for texture, but you can experiment with other puffed cereals like Special K or Corn Flakes for a fun twist. Just keep the measurements the same.
Do I need a candy thermometer for the caramel?
Nope! This recipe is designed to be simple—just follow the boiling times and stir constantly. No thermometer required.
FOR MORE RECIPES LIKE THIS, TRY:
- Caramel Filled Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats
- Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats
- Caramel Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats
- Avalanche Bars
Homemade Caramel Rice Krispie Treats
Real Mom Kitchen
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter
- 1 ¾ cups corn syrup
- 2 cups brown sugar packed
- 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla
- dash salt
- 18 cups rice krispies cereal about 1 1/2 of two 12 oz boxes
Instructions
- Measure out your rice krispies into a super large mixing bowl. I divide mine with two bowls since I don’t have a large enough bowl to hold all of the cereal with room to mix it.
- In a large saucepan, add butter and melt over medium heat. Once melted stir in the corn syrup and brown sugar. Bring to a boil, while stirring constantly. Allow to boil for 3 minutes while stirring.
- Add in the sweetened condensed milk and stir until well combined. Bring to a boil and boil for 3 minutes while stirring. Remove from the heat and mix in the vanilla and salt.
- Pour the caramel mixture over the cereal and stir until well coated with the caramel. Since I use 2 bowls, I just roughly divide the caramel between the two bowls.
- Spray your 9 x 13-inch pan with non-stick cooking spray. Then gently press the cereal mixture into the pan. Allow them to cool for 30 minutes and then cut into bars. Makes 15 large bars.
