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The Best Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats

These brown butter Rice Krispie treats are soft, gooey, and packed with rich nutty flavor from browned butter, making them an irresistible upgrade to the classic childhood favorite.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings: 16 squares
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup salted butter 2 sticks
  • 2 10 oz bags mini marshmallows, divided
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 8 cups Rice Krispies cereal
  • Flaky sea salt optional

Method
 

  1. Prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
  2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the butter becomes golden brown and smells nutty. Watch carefully so it doesn't burn.
  3. Remove the pot from the heat and immediately stir in one and a half bags of mini marshmallows (about 15 ounces). Stir until completely melted and smooth.
  4. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
  5. Fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.
  6. Stir in the remaining half bag of mini marshmallows. These extra marshmallows create pockets of gooeyness throughout the bars.
  7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Lightly grease your spatula or hands and gently press the mixture into an even layer. Do not pack the mixture down firmly.
  8. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
  9. Allow the treats to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing into squares.

Notes

  • Do not rush the brown butter. The deeper golden color creates the best flavor.
  • Using fresh marshmallows will give you the softest texture.
  • Avoid pressing the mixture firmly into the pan or the bars may become dense and hard.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
  • For extra gooey Rice Krispie treats, add an additional cup of mini marshmallows when mixing.