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
Scale
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.
