If you’re looking for a truly irresistible twist on a classic treat, this Brown Butter Caramel Apple Rice Krispie Treats Recipe will blow your mind. Combining the nutty, deep flavor of brown butter with chewy caramel and crisp freeze-dried apples, these treats are not just sweet but packed with comforting autumn vibes. The Rice Krispies keep them perfectly light and crunchy, while the subtle cinnamon sugar and caramel drizzle on top finish everything off with a gorgeous flair. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s become one of my absolute favorites to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential for creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color in your Brown Butter Caramel Apple Rice Krispie Treats Recipe. Each one plays a crucial role, from the richness of browned butter to the subtle crunch and tartness from freeze-dried apples.
- ½ cup salted butter: Browning this adds a nutty depth that elevates the entire treat.
- 10 cups mini marshmallows (divided): Melting most for gooeyness while reserving a few adds little bursts of chewy sweetness.
- 9 cups Rice Krispies cereal: Provides that signature crispy, airy texture you expect in rice krispie treats.
- 1 cup caramel bits: Adds pockets of soft, buttery caramel goodness throughout.
- 1.25 ounces freeze dried apples: Offers a tart contrast and delicate crispness that brightens every bite.
- Cinnamon sugar (optional topping): Sprinkled on top to lend warm spice and sparkle.
- Caramel sauce (optional topping): For a luscious, drizzled finish that makes these treats extra special.
How to Make Brown Butter Caramel Apple Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Ingredients
Start by lining a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to make removal and cleanup effortless. Have all your ingredients measured out and ready to go before you begin melting butter, since this recipe moves quickly once everything comes together.
Step 2: Brown the Butter
Place the salted butter in a large pot over medium-high heat and melt it, watching carefully until it begins to develop those beautiful brown flecks that signal nutty, rich flavor forming. This step is the secret star of this Brown Butter Caramel Apple Rice Krispie Treats Recipe, adding warmth and complexity that regular melted butter just can’t match.
Step 3: Melt the Marshmallows into the Brown Butter
Turn the heat down to low and add 8 cups of mini marshmallows to the browned butter. Stir constantly and patiently until the marshmallows have melted into a smooth, glossy mixture. This sticky blend will act as the glue that holds everything perfectly together.
Step 4: Mix in the Cereal, Caramel, Apples, and Remaining Marshmallows
Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the Rice Krispies cereal, caramel bits, freeze dried apples (pre-processed into smaller bits if you like), and the remaining 2 cups of mini marshmallows. Mix thoroughly so each crispy piece is beautifully coated with that indulgent brown butter marshmallow goodness. This combination creates a delightful texture you won’t want to stop eating.
Step 5: Transfer and Shape
Using a piece of parchment paper between your hands, gently press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Be careful not to press too hard so your treats stay light and chewy rather than dense and tough. This step is about shaping with love and care, ensuring every bite is just right.
Step 6: Optional Toppings and Cooling
Sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the top for a cozy spiced finish and drizzle with caramel sauce if you’re feeling extra indulgent. Let your treats cool for about 30 minutes at room temperature until they firm up just enough for slicing into squares while maintaining that perfect chew.
How to Serve Brown Butter Caramel Apple Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or an elegant drizzle of caramel sauce not only makes these treats look irresistible but introduces an inviting aroma and a touch of sweetness that complements the brown butter perfectly. You could also toss a few tiny apple chips on top for extra texture and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
These treats shine as a sweet snack on their own, but pairing them with a hot cup of spiced apple cider or a creamy chai latte brings out the autumn flavors beautifully. If serving at a gathering, pair with fresh fruit or a simple vanilla yogurt dip for a balance of textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation makes everything more fun! Cut the treats into bite-sized squares and serve them on a rustic wooden board with little bowls of extra caramel and cinnamon sugar for dipping. Or stack them in a pretty tin layered with parchment paper to give as heartfelt homemade gifts that friends will adore. For parties, try skewering mini squares with apple slices and drizzling lightly with caramel for a playful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These Brown Butter Caramel Apple Rice Krispie Treats Recipe treats stay fresh when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Keep them away from direct sunlight and moisture so they maintain their crisp and chewy texture without getting sticky or stale.
Freezing
If you want to make a big batch ahead of time, you can definitely freeze these treats. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, making it easy to enjoy this comforting treat whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
To enjoy frozen treats, let them come to room temperature or warm gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This softens the caramel and marshmallow slightly, recreating that fresh-from-the-pan gooeyness without losing the crispy charm.
FAQs
Can I use regular butter instead of salted butter?
Yes, you can use unsalted butter if you prefer, but be sure to add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavor complexity that salted butter naturally provides in this recipe.
Can I substitute fresh apples for freeze-dried apples?
Freeze-dried apples offer a crisp texture and concentrated tartness that fresh apples don’t provide when mixed into sticky treats. Using fresh apples might make the treats soggy, so it’s best to stick with freeze-dried for this recipe.
How do I prevent the treats from being too hard?
Press the mixture gently into the pan rather than packing it tightly. Over-pressing compacts the cereal and marshmallow, resulting in a tougher texture instead of light, chewy bars.
Can I omit the caramel bits or caramel drizzle?
Absolutely. The treats will still be delicious with just the brown butter and apples, but adding caramel bits and drizzle adds that extra layer of buttery sweetness that makes the Brown Butter Caramel Apple Rice Krispie Treats Recipe so special.
What’s the best way to cut these treats without them sticking?
Wait until the treats have cooled completely, then use a knife lightly greased with butter or sprayed with nonstick spray. This helps you slice cleanly without dragging sticky bits along the edge.
Final Thoughts
This Brown Butter Caramel Apple Rice Krispie Treats Recipe is a game changer if you love classic snacks but crave a little extra magic. The combination of browned butter, caramel, and crisp apples brings amazing fall flavors to a fun and easy treat that everyone will rave about. Give it a try and watch how fast these get devoured — trust me, you’ll want to keep this one in your recipe rotation forever!
Print
Brown Butter Caramel Apple Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes plus 30 minutes cooling
- Yield: 30 treats
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Brown Butter Caramel Apple Rice Krispie Treats combine the classic marshmallow cereal treat with rich, nutty browned butter, sweet caramel bits, and tangy freeze-dried apples for a deliciously unique twist. Finished with optional cinnamon sugar and caramel drizzle, they are perfect for fall gatherings or anytime you crave a nostalgic yet elevated snack.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- ½ cup salted butter
- 10 cups mini marshmallows (divided into 8 cups and 2 cups)
- 9 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Add-ins
- 1 cup caramel bits
- 1.25 ounces freeze dried apples
Optional Toppings
- Cinnamon sugar
- Caramel sauce
Instructions
- Prepare Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside to ensure easy removal of the treats after they set.
- Measure Ingredients: Measure out 8 cups and 2 cups of mini marshmallows separately, 9 cups of Rice Krispies cereal, 1 cup caramel bits, and 1.25 ounces freeze-dried apples. Process the freeze-dried apples in a food processor until broken down to bits or crumbs for easy mixing.
- Brown Butter: Melt the ½ cup salted butter in a large pot over medium-high heat, watching closely until it begins to brown and brown flecks form, which imparts a nutty, rich flavor.
- Melt Marshmallows: Reduce heat to low and immediately add 8 cups of mini marshmallows to the browned butter. Stir constantly until fully melted and smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Remove from heat and add the Rice Krispies cereal, caramel bits, freeze-dried apples, and the remaining 2 cups of mini marshmallows. Stir gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly coated in the melted butter and marshmallow mixture.
- Press Into Pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Use a piece of parchment paper between your hands and the mixture to press it down gently and evenly, being careful not to compress too much to maintain a soft texture.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the top and drizzle with caramel sauce if desired to add extra sweetness and flavor layers.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the treats to cool completely at room temperature, about 30 minutes, to set properly before slicing into squares and serving.
Notes
- Do not press the mixture too hard into the pan to avoid hard, dense treats.
- Freeze-dried apples add a tart burst and texture but can be substituted with dried apple pieces for convenience.
- Brown butter adds a deeper, nutty flavor that elevates this classic treat.
- Optional toppings are great for presentation but can be omitted for a simpler treat.
- Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
