Indulgent Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Favorite
Embark on a culinary journey with the perfect marriage of sweet and salty in these irresistible Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats. Elevating the beloved childhood classic to new heights, these treats are sure to captivate your taste buds with their gooey caramel, crispy cereal, and sprinkling of sea salt. Join me as we delve into the art of creating these indulgent delights, along with tips, variations, and answers to your frequently asked questions!
Ingredients:
- 4 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 11-ounce package Kraft caramels, unwrapped
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions:
- Prepare Pan: Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Set aside.
- Melt Marshmallows and Butter: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and stir constantly until they are completely melted and smooth.
- Add Cereal: Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated with the melted marshmallow mixture.
- Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and press it down firmly and evenly using a greased spatula or your hands.
- Prepare Caramel: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the unwrapped caramels and milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the caramels are melted and smooth.
- Drizzle Caramel: Drizzle the melted caramel over the Rice Krispie mixture in the pan, using a spoon or spatula to spread it evenly.
- Add Sea Salt: Sprinkle coarse sea salt over the top of the caramel layer, to your desired level of saltiness.
- Chill: Allow the treats to cool and set at room temperature for at least 1 hour, or refrigerate for faster setting.
- Cut and Serve: Once set, use a sharp knife to cut the treats into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Caramel Variation: For a shortcut, you can use store-bought caramel sauce instead of melting caramels. Simply drizzle the sauce over the Rice Krispie mixture before adding the sea salt.
- Nutty Addition: Enhance the flavor and texture by adding chopped nuts such as pecans or peanuts to the caramel layer before sprinkling with sea salt.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra decadent touch, melt some chocolate chips and drizzle it over the cooled treats along with or instead of the caramel.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto: To make keto-friendly Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats, you can use a combination of keto-friendly marshmallows (made with sugar substitutes like erythritol or stevia) and a keto-friendly cereal such as crushed pork rinds or coconut flakes.
- Low-Carb: Similarly, for a low-carb version, substitute the marshmallows and cereal with low-carb alternatives and use a sugar-free caramel sauce sweetened with erythritol or stevia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use regular-sized marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows? A: Yes, you can use regular-sized marshmallows, but you may need to adjust the quantity. Approximately 40 regular-sized marshmallows equal 4 1/2 cups of mini marshmallows.
Q: Can I make these treats ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make these treats ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
Q: Can I freeze these treats? A: Yes, these treats freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Q: Can I use homemade caramel instead of store-bought caramels? A: Absolutely! Homemade caramel adds a delicious flavor to these treats. Just make sure it’s thick enough to drizzle over the Rice Krispie mixture.
Experience the ultimate indulgence with these Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats – a delightful fusion of sweet, salty, and crispy goodness that’s guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re enjoying them as a special treat for yourself or sharing them with loved ones, these treats are sure to bring joy to any occasion. With their gooey caramel, crunchy cereal, and hint of sea salt, they’re a decadent twist on a beloved classic that’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. So gather your ingredients, unleash your creativity, and prepare to delight your taste buds with every irresistible bite!