Caramel-Coated Marshmallow Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful twist on the classic Rice Krispie treat, combining gooey marshmallows with rich caramel for an indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, need a sweet gift, or simply want a delicious snack, these treats are sure to be a hit. Follow this detailed guide to make these irresistible treats.
Ingredients
- 16 oz premium caramels: Choose high-quality caramels for the best flavor. If you can’t find them in a block, caramel bits work well too.
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk: This adds creaminess and sweetness to the caramel coating.
- 1 cup unsalted butter: Butter adds richness and helps the caramel coating adhere to the Rice Krispies.
- 1.5 packages of large marshmallows (about 30-40 marshmallows): These create the gooey base of the treats. If you prefer, you can use mini marshmallows.
- 1 box (12 oz) Rice Krispies cereal: This is the crunchy base for the treats.
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This will make it easier to remove the treats once they are set.
- Make the Caramel Coating:
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the caramels, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Stir frequently to ensure even melting and to prevent burning. Continue to cook until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Marshmallow Mixture:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the marshmallows over low heat. Stir constantly to ensure they melt evenly. This will take about 5-7 minutes. If you prefer, you can also melt the marshmallows in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
- Combine with Rice Krispies:
- Once the marshmallows are melted and smooth, remove the pot from heat. Gradually stir in the Rice Krispies cereal. Mix until the cereal is well coated with the marshmallow mixture.
- Add Caramel Coating:
- Gently fold in the caramel coating mixture until everything is evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as this could cause the mixture to become too sticky and hard to work with.
- Transfer to Pan:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands (lightly greased) to press the mixture evenly into the pan. Press down firmly to ensure it holds together well.
- Cool and Cut:
- Allow the treats to cool completely in the pan. This usually takes about 2 hours at room temperature. Once cooled, use the parchment paper to lift the treats out of the pan and transfer them to a cutting board. Cut into squares or bars.
- Store Properly:
- Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you need to keep them for a longer period, you can refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Tips for Perfect Treats
- Even Mixing: Be thorough but gentle when mixing in the Rice Krispies and caramel. Overmixing can cause the mixture to become too sticky and difficult to spread.
- Butter the Utensils: Lightly butter or coat your spatula and hands with cooking spray to prevent sticking when pressing the mixture into the pan.
- Caramel Consistency: If the caramel is too thick, you can gently reheat it with a splash of milk to loosen it up before mixing with the marshmallows and Rice Krispies.
Variations
- Nutty Twist: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added texture and flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the cooled treats for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Sea Salt: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel layer before it sets for a delightful salty-sweet contrast.
Caramel-Coated Marshmallow Rice Krispie Treats are a fantastic way to elevate a classic dessert into something even more special. With a rich caramel coating and a gooey marshmallow center, these treats are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your family and friends. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or just as a treat for yourself, these bars are a delicious and indulgent choice that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
