Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: A Sweet & Salty Indulgence Recipe
If you’re craving a treat that perfectly balances rich, buttery sweetness with just the right pop of saltiness, these Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats truly deliver. This recipe, fondly known as A Sweet & Salty Indulgence, takes the classic childhood favorite up several notches by layering gooey salted caramel and silky chocolate drizzle over the crunchy cereal base. Each bite melts, crunches, and melts again, making this dessert an irresistible celebration of contrast and comfort. Whether you’re sharing with friends or sneaking bites for yourself, this is one recipe you want to keep in your repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, yet thoughtfully chosen to create the perfect texture and flavor harmony in this dessert. Their roles—from the crisp Rice Krispies to the luxurious caramel—are essential for crafting that iconic A Sweet & Salty Indulgence experience.
- 5 tablespoons butter: Provides richness and helps the marshmallows melt smoothly into the cereal.
- 10 ounces marshmallows: The main sticky binder that brings everything together.
- 5 cups Rice Krispie cereal: Adds the signature crunch and lightness to the treats.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant note that elevates the base flavor.
- 10 ounces caramels or caramel bites, unwrapped: The star ingredient that melts into a luscious salted caramel topping.
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk: Creates a creamy base for the caramel and adds sweetness.
- 5 tablespoons butter (for the caramel): Boosts the caramel’s richness and silkiness.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: For making the indulgent chocolate drizzle smooth and luscious.
- 6 ounces milk chocolate chips: Adds the perfect chocolatey complement to the caramel.
- Sea salt (for garnish): Enhances the sweet flavors and brings out a delightful salty finish.
How to Make Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: A Sweet & Salty Indulgence
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by buttering a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly. This crucial step ensures your wonderful A Sweet & Salty Indulgence won’t stick, allowing you to slice and serve the treats effortlessly once they have set.
Step 2: Make the Rice Krispie Base
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 5 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the marshmallows and stir continuously until they are completely melted and smooth. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for that joyful burst of aroma and flavor. Next, fold in the Rice Krispie cereal gently but thoroughly, ensuring every piece is coated in marshmallow goodness. Press this mixture firmly into your prepared dish, laying the foundation of your Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: A Sweet & Salty Indulgence.
Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel Layer
In another saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, an additional 5 tablespoons of butter, and the unwrapped caramels. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until everything smoothly melds together. Remove from heat and pour this luscious caramel sauce evenly over the Rice Krispie base. Then, sprinkle a generous layer of sea salt on top—this is where the sweet and salty magic starts to take shape. Let it cool for about 15 minutes to allow the caramel layer to set slightly.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate Drizzle
Gently heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to bubble. Remove it from the heat and pour it over the milk chocolate chips in a bowl. Stir slowly until the chocolate fully melts into a rich, smooth sauce. Adjust the consistency with small additions of cream if needed for that perfect drizzle. Let this chocolate mixture cool for a few minutes before drizzling it generously over your caramel-topped Rice Krispie base.
Step 5: Add the Final Touches
Once the chocolate drizzle is in place, finish off your masterpiece with a final sprinkle of sea salt. This extra saltiness is what makes this treat truly stand out, cutting through the sweet layers and accentuating every flavor note in your Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: A Sweet & Salty Indulgence. Allow everything to set completely before slicing.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: A Sweet & Salty Indulgence
Garnishes
Enhance your presentation with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt or even a scattering of crushed toasted nuts for added crunch. A small dusting of cocoa powder or a few chocolate shavings can add a touch of elegance and deepen the chocolate notes.
Side Dishes
This treat is decadent enough to wow on its own, but try pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a refreshing fruit salad to balance the richness. For adult gatherings, a cup of strong coffee or a glass of rich dessert wine can complement the flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these bars on a rustic wooden board or wrap individual squares in parchment paper tied with twine for gifting. You might also layer them in clear jars with whipped cream and fresh berries for a layered dessert parfait twist on the classic A Sweet & Salty Indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to preserve their softness and crunch. Avoid refrigeration as it can harden the caramel and chocolate layers unnecessarily.
Freezing
Wrap squares individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for a few hours before enjoying, and you’ll still get that perfect mix of textures.
Reheating
Typically these treats are best served at room temperature, but if you prefer them warm, briefly microwave a single piece for about 10 seconds. This warms the caramel slightly, giving it an extra gooey texture without melting the chocolate drizzle completely.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cereal?
Absolutely! While Rice Krispies are classic for their light crunch, you can try other cereals like Cocoa Krispies or even crushed cereal flakes for a unique texture and flavor twist in your Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: A Sweet & Salty Indulgence.
What if I don’t have sea salt?
Coarse kosher salt or regular table salt can work in a pinch, but sea salt flakes offer the best contrast with their large crystals and subtle mineral flavor that make the sweet and salty balance really shine.
Is there a way to make this dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with dairy-free margarine, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and look for dairy-free caramel alternatives. The texture might vary slightly, but you’ll still enjoy an amazing Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: A Sweet & Salty Indulgence.
Can I prepare any steps ahead of time?
You can make the Rice Krispie base and caramel separately ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and add the chocolate drizzle just before serving to maintain freshness and texture layers.
How do I get the chocolate drizzle to look nice?
Using a spoon or small piping bag, drizzle in slow, controlled motions over the caramel layer. Let the chocolate cool slightly so it’s fluid but not too hot, ensuring a smooth, glossy look perfect for your Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats:A Sweet & Salty Indulgence.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about combining sweet, salty, crunchy, and gooey in one unforgettable bite, and these Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats deliver that joyous experience perfectly. Whether you’re making them for a party, a gift, or just because you deserve a little sweetness, this Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: A Sweet & Salty Indulgence is bound to become a beloved favorite. Get ready to fall in love with this deliciously nostalgic and sophisticated treat!
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A Sweet & Salty Indulgence Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful combination of classic crispy marshmallow treats layered with a rich, buttery salted caramel, and topped with a smooth milk chocolate drizzle. The sweet and salty flavors meld perfectly, creating an irresistible indulgence that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Rice Krispie Base
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 10 ounces marshmallows
- 5 cups Rice Krispie cereal
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Salted Caramel Layer
- 10 ounces caramels or caramel bites, unwrapped
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 5 tablespoons butter
- Sea salt (for garnish)
Chocolate Drizzle
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 6 ounces milk chocolate chips
- Sea salt (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and to help lift the treats out easily once set.
- Make the Rice Krispie Base: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 5 tablespoons of butter. Add the marshmallows and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Then fold in 5 cups of Rice Krispie cereal until well coated. Press this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Make the Salted Caramel Layer: In another saucepan, combine the can of sweetened condensed milk, 5 tablespoons butter, and unwrapped caramels over medium heat. Stir constantly until the caramels have completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and pour the caramel evenly over the Rice Krispie base. Sprinkle a generous amount of sea salt over the caramel to enhance the flavor. Allow this layer to cool and set for about 15 minutes.
- Make the Chocolate Drizzle: Heat 1/2 cup heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat just until it begins to bubble. Remove from heat immediately. Place 6 ounces of milk chocolate chips in a bowl and pour the warm cream over them gradually. Stir gently until the chocolate has melted completely and forms a thick, smooth sauce. If needed, add a bit more warm cream to achieve a drizzle consistency. Let the chocolate cool slightly.
- Add the Final Touches: Drizzle the softened chocolate sauce generously over the caramel layer. Finish by sprinkling a little more sea salt on top to balance the sweet and salty flavors. Allow the treat to set completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
- Use fresh marshmallows for the best melt and texture.
- Press the Rice Krispie mixture firmly in the pan to prevent crumbling.
- Adjust the amount of sea salt based on your taste preference—more for a stronger salty contrast.
- Let treats cool fully at room temperature for the best texture before slicing.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake, Stove Top
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approx. 2×2 inches)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: Salted Caramel, Rice Krispie Treats, Sweet and Salty Dessert, No-bake Treats, Marshmallow Treats, Caramel Desserts
