Name: Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: A Sweet & Salty Indulgence
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5 tablespoons butter; 10 ounces vegan marshmallows; 5 cups Rice Krispie cereal; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 10 ounces caramels or caramel bites; 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk; 5 tablespoons butter (for caramel); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 6 ounces milk chocolate chips; Sea salt (for garnish)

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There’s something irresistibly magical about the combination of soft, gooey vegan marshmallows, crispy cereal, and the rich indulgence of caramel and chocolate. Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: A Sweet & Salty Indulgence take the classic childhood snack to new heights by introducing an extra layer of flavor—sweet, salty, and utterly delicious. This treat is perfect for sharing with friends or family, and it’s sure to become a beloved dessert at any gathering or even as an afternoon snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of sweet caramel and salty toppings creates a unique taste that everyone will love.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, after-school snacks, or just a sweet pick-me-up during the day.
No Baking Required: Enjoy a delightful dessert without turning on the oven—perfect for warm days!
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like nuts or dried fruit for a personalized touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this scrumptious recipe, gather the essential tools that will make your baking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

9×13-inch baking dish
Large saucepan
Small saucepan
Mixing spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

9×13-inch baking dish: Ensures the treats are evenly shaped and easy to cut into uniform squares.
Large saucepan: Ideal for melting marshmallows and butter together without risking burning.
Small saucepan: Perfect for creating a smooth chocolate drizzle over the final product.

Ingredients

5 tablespoons butter
10 ounces vegan marshmallows
5 cups Rice Krispie cereal
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
10 ounces caramels or caramel bites, unwrapped
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
5 tablespoons butter (again, for the caramel)
1/2 cup heavy cream
6 ounces milk chocolate chips
Sea salt (for garnish)

How to Make Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: A Sweet & Salty Indulgence

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by buttering a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure that your treats won’t stick. This will also help you to easily lift them out once they’ve set.

Step 2: Melt Marshmallows

In a large saucepan, melt 5 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the vegan marshmallows:
1. Stir continuously until completely melted and smooth.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.

Step 3: Create the Caramel Layer

In another saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, 5 tablespoons of butter, and unwrapped caramels:
1. Melt over medium heat while stirring constantly until smooth.
2. Pour this caramel mixture over the Rice Krispie base evenly.
3. Sprinkle a generous amount of sea salt on top before allowing it to cool for about 15 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare Chocolate Drizzle

In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream until it begins to bubble:
1. Remove from heat and pour warm cream over milk chocolate chips in a separate bowl.
2. Stir gently until it forms a smooth sauce; adjust consistency with more cream if necessary.

Step 5: Final Touches

After drizzling the chocolate over the caramel layer:
1. Finish by sprinkling more sea salt on top to enhance the balance of flavors.
2. Allow everything to set before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats as a delightful dessert or snack!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: A Sweet & Salty Indulgence

Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful combination of textures and flavors. How you serve them can enhance their appeal and make your gatherings even more special.

For Parties

Platter Display: Arrange the treats on a colorful platter for an eye-catching centerpiece.
Individual Wrapping: Wrap each treat in clear cellophane and tie with a ribbon for easy grab-and-go snacks.

With Beverages

Coffee Pairing: Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee; the bitterness complements the sweetness beautifully.
Milk or Plant-Based Milk: Offer chilled milk or almond milk to balance the richness of the treats.

As Gifts

Gift Boxes: Package them in decorative boxes or tins as homemade gifts for friends and family.
Party Favors: These treats make great party favors; simply wrap them individually for your guests to take home.

At Movie Nights

Snack Bowls: Place the treats in bowls for a fun, casual movie night snack.
Dessert Bar: Set up a dessert bar where guests can choose their toppings or drizzles over the treats.

How to Perfect Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: A Sweet & Salty Indulgence

Perfecting Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats is all about technique. Here are some tips to ensure your treats turn out delicious every time.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh vegan marshmallows and high-quality chocolate chips for the best flavor.
Don’t Overheat: Be careful not to overheat the marshmallows; they should melt smoothly without becoming too hot.
Press Firmly: When spreading the mixture into the baking dish, press down firmly but gently to create a cohesive treat.
Add Sea Salt Generously: Sprinkle enough sea salt on top to enhance the sweet and salty profile of your treats.
Cool Completely: Allow the treats to cool completely before cutting them; this helps maintain their shape.
Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: A Sweet & Salty Indulgence

Pairing your Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options.

Fresh Fruit Salad
Bright, refreshing fruits provide a light counterbalance to the rich sweetness of the treats.
Cheese Platter
A selection of cheeses offers savory bites that contrast beautifully with sweet flavors.
Popcorn Bar
Create a popcorn station with various seasonings for guests to enjoy while munching on their treats.
Nut Mixes
A mix of roasted nuts adds crunch and saltiness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Yogurt Parfaits
Layers of yogurt, granola, and fruit can create a delightful contrast in texture and taste.
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels
The salty-sweet combination mirrors the flavor of your Rice Krispie Treats while adding variety.
Ice Cream Sundaes
Offer ice cream as an indulgent side, allowing guests to create their own sundaes topped with salted caramel drizzle.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Skipping the buttering step: Always butter your baking dish well. This prevents sticking and makes it easier to remove the treats later.
Overheating the marshmallows: Melt the vegan marshmallows over medium heat. High heat can scorch them, ruining their texture.
Not evenly mixing ingredients: Make sure to blend the Rice Krispies thoroughly with the marshmallow mixture. Uneven mixing can lead to inconsistent flavors and textures.
Ignoring cooling times: Allow the caramel layer to cool before adding chocolate. Rushing this step can cause the chocolate to melt into the caramel instead of sitting on top.
Using low-quality chocolate chips: Opt for good quality milk chocolate chips for a richer flavor. Cheap alternatives may not melt as well or taste as delicious.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Freezing Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: A Sweet & Salty Indulgence

Freeze for up to 2 months.
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: A Sweet & Salty Indulgence

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in 10-15 second intervals until warm.
Stovetop: Place in a non-stick pan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats so special?

These treats combine sweet and salty flavors, creating a delightful contrast that elevates the classic recipe. The addition of rich caramel and chocolate enhances every bite.

Can I make these treats vegan?

Yes! This recipe already uses vegan marshmallows and can be made dairy-free by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative.

How do I customize my Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats?

Feel free to add mix-ins like nuts, dried fruit, or even candy pieces for extra flavor and texture. Just ensure they complement the salted caramel flavor.

How long do Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats last?

When stored properly, they can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 2 months in the freezer without losing their deliciousness.

Can I use different types of cereal?

Absolutely! You can experiment with other crispy cereals or even granola for added flavor variations while keeping the overall texture similar.

Final Thoughts

Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful blend of sweet and salty goodness that everyone will love. They are perfect for any occasion or simply as an afternoon snack. Feel free to customize this treat with your favorite additions, making it truly your own!

Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: A Sweet & Salty Indulgence

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Author: Florence
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the delightful combination of textures and flavors with these Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: A Sweet & Salty Indulgence. This easy, no-bake recipe takes the classic Rice Krispie treat to new heights by layering gooey vegan marshmallows, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate. With a perfect balance of sweet and salty, these treats are ideal for sharing at parties, enjoying as an afternoon snack, or gifting to friends and family. Customizable with your favorite toppings and quick to prepare, they’re sure to become a favorite dessert in your household.

Instructions

Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large saucepan, melt 5 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add vegan marshmallows and stir until melted. Remove from heat and mix in vanilla extract.
In another saucepan, melt sweetened condensed milk, 5 tablespoons of butter, and unwrapped caramels over medium heat until smooth. Pour over the Rice Krispie mixture.
Sprinkle sea salt on top and cool for about 15 minutes.
Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until bubbling. Pour over milk chocolate chips in a bowl and stir until smooth.
Drizzle chocolate over the cooled caramel layer and sprinkle with more sea salt before allowing to set completely.