If you’re craving a nostalgic treat with a grown-up twist, Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats are about to become your new obsession. These bars take everything you love about classic Rice Krispie treats—gooey marshmallows, crispy cereal, and buttery richness—and elevate them with a luscious swirl of caramel and a pop of sea salt. The result is a perfectly balanced dessert that’s sweet, salty, and completely irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a party or just need a quick dessert fix, these bars are an absolute delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats come together with just a handful of pantry staples, but each one plays a starring role. From the creamy butter to the final sprinkle of flaky salt, every ingredient adds something special to the flavor and texture of these dreamy bars.
- Rice Krispies cereal: The essential crispy base that gives these treats their signature crunch and lightness.
- Mini marshmallows: They melt into gooey sweetness, binding everything together for that classic chewy texture.
- Unsalted butter: Adds rich flavor and helps melt the marshmallows smoothly for a glossy, luscious finish.
- Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade): Infuses the bars with deep, buttery caramel notes—homemade caramel brings extra depth if you have the time!
- Sea salt (plus more for topping): Lifts the sweetness and enhances every bite with a savory kick, making the caramel truly shine.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and brings a hint of warmth to the finished treats.
- Optional flaky sea salt for garnish: For those who love a little extra crunch and saltiness on top, this is the perfect finishing touch.
How to Make Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by greasing a 9×9-inch baking pan with nonstick spray, or line it with parchment paper if you want to lift the treats out easily for cutting. This step keeps your Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows
In a large pot set over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s just beginning to foam. Add the mini marshmallows and stir constantly with a spatula or wooden spoon. Keep stirring until the marshmallows are fully melted and everything is smooth—this is what gives the treats their irresistible gooeyness!
Step 3: Stir in Caramel, Salt, and Vanilla
Next, pour in the caramel sauce, sea salt, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the caramel is completely blended with the marshmallow mixture. You’ll notice the aroma turning rich and buttery—a good sign that those Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats are going to be next-level delicious.
Step 4: Fold in the Cereal
Remove the pot from the heat and immediately add the Rice Krispies cereal. Work quickly to fold the cereal into the caramel-mallow mixture, making sure every bit is evenly coated. The key is to stir gently but efficiently so you don’t crush the cereal.
Step 5: Press and Cool
Spoon the mixture into your prepared pan. Use a greased spatula or lightly oiled hands to press it down firmly and evenly. For that signature finish, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the top. Let the pan cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then cut your Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats into squares and enjoy!
How to Serve Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats
Garnishes
For an extra flourish, drizzle a bit more caramel sauce over the top of each square just before serving. A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt adds both an elegant look and a delicious salty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the sweet caramel.
Side Dishes
Pair your Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert plate. If you’re serving them at a party, fresh berries, chocolate-dipped strawberries, or a platter of sliced apples complement the flavors and add a fresh, fruity note.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your treats into fun shapes using cookie cutters, or layer them in jars for a playful take-home favor. Stack squares on a tiered cake stand for a show-stopping dessert table centerpiece, or wrap individual bars in parchment and tie them with twine for a rustic, giftable touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to 3 days—though they rarely last that long in my house!
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, these treats freeze beautifully. Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top bag and freeze for up to a month. Let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.
Reheating
For that just-made gooeyness, pop a treat in the microwave for about 5-10 seconds. This softens the marshmallow and caramel without melting the cereal, reviving the texture perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use homemade caramel sauce?
Absolutely! Homemade caramel sauce brings a deeper, more complex flavor to your Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats. Just make sure it’s thick enough to blend smoothly with the melted marshmallows.
What if I don’t have mini marshmallows?
You can use full-size marshmallows—just chop them into smaller pieces for quicker melting, and use about 4 cups to equal the 10-ounce bag called for in the recipe.
Can I add chocolate to these treats?
Yes! Swirl in some melted chocolate or sprinkle chocolate chips over the top before the bars set for a delicious chocolate-caramel combo. It’s a fun way to make your Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats even more decadent.
Are these gluten-free?
Rice Krispies cereal contains malt flavoring, which is derived from barley and not gluten-free. If you need a gluten-free version, look for a certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal.
How do I prevent sticky hands when pressing the mixture into the pan?
Lightly grease your hands with butter or nonstick spray before pressing the mixture into the pan. This simple trick keeps the gooey mixture from sticking to your fingers, making the process much easier.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats—the way the buttery caramel mingles with chewy marshmallows and a pop of sea salt in every bite is pure bliss. If you’re looking to impress friends, share a sweet moment with family, or just treat yourself, give these bars a try. I’m certain they’ll become a regular favorite in your kitchen, just like they are in mine!
Print
Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the perfect combination of crispy, chewy, and salty with these Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats. Made with classic Rice Krispies cereal, melted marshmallows, and rich caramel sauce, these no-bake treats are finished with a touch of sea salt for an irresistible twist. Easy to make and perfect for satisfying sweet cravings, these bars are a crowd-pleasing dessert or snack.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (plus more for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Garnish
- Flaky sea salt for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease removal.
- Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until completely melted and smooth, creating a creamy base.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the caramel sauce, sea salt, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are fully combined for the signature salted caramel flavor.
- Combine with Cereal: Remove the pot from heat and quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, stirring until every piece is evenly coated with the marshmallow-caramel mixture.
- Set and Cool: Press the sticky mixture firmly into the prepared pan using a spatula or lightly greased hands to ensure an even layer. Sprinkle additional flaky sea salt on top if desired for a finishing touch.
- Chill and Serve: Let the treats cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes or until set. Once firm, cut into 16 squares and enjoy.
Notes
- For extra decadence, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top before serving.
- Homemade salted caramel sauce adds a richer, deeper flavor than store-bought.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to help the treats hold together better.
- Store airtight at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 13 g
- Sodium: 160 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
