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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to make: Quick preparation with simple ingredients.

  • Sweet and chewy: Caramel adds a rich flavor and gooey texture.

  • Crunchy and soft: The perfect balance of textures.

  • Great for sharing: Ideal for bake sales, parties, or gifts.

  • Customizable: Add nuts, chocolate drizzle, or sea salt.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Rice Krispies cereal

  • Caramel candies or homemade caramel

  • Unsalted butter

  • Sweetened condensed milk

  • Vanilla extract

  • Optional toppings: sea salt, chocolate chips, nuts

Directions

  1. Prepare caramel: In a saucepan, melt butter and caramel candies with sweetened condensed milk over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth.

  2. Add vanilla: Stir in vanilla extract once caramel is melted.

  3. Combine with cereal: Remove from heat and quickly stir in Rice Krispies cereal until well coated.

  4. Press into pan: Transfer mixture to a greased or lined baking pan and press evenly.

  5. Add toppings: Sprinkle sea salt or chocolate chips on top if desired, gently pressing them in.

  6. Cool and cut: Let cool completely before cutting into squares.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 12-16 squares

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 10 minutes

  • Cooling Time: 30 minutes

  • Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

  • Chocolate drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled treats.

  • Nutty mix: Add chopped pecans or almonds into the mixture.

  • Salted caramel: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for contrast.

  • Peanut butter caramel: Mix peanut butter into caramel for extra flavor.

  • Gluten-free: Use gluten-free crispy rice cereal.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

  • Freezing: Freeze wrapped treats for up to 1 month.

  • Reheating: Not necessary; serve at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel candies?

Yes, soft caramel candies melt easily for this recipe.

How do I prevent treats from sticking?

Grease the pan well or line with parchment paper.

Can I make these vegan?

Use vegan butter, dairy-free caramel, and cereal.

How do I keep treats chewy?

Do not overcook caramel; remove from heat as soon as smooth.

Can I add marshmallows?

Traditional marshmallows aren’t needed but can be added for extra softness.

Are these treats gluten-free?

Check that your cereal is certified gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger pan and adjust cooling time.

Can I add flavor extracts?

Vanilla is classic; almond or caramel extracts work too.

How do I cut treats neatly?

Use a sharp knife and cut once completely cooled.

Can I make mini versions?

Press mixture into mini muffin tins for bite-sized treats.

Conclusion

Caramel Rice Krispie Treats are a deliciously sweet and chewy snack that elevates the classic cereal treat with rich caramel flavor. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, these treats are perfect for sharing, gifting, or indulging anytime you want a nostalgic yet elevated dessert.

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Caramel Rice Krispie Treats

Caramel Rice Krispie Treats

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  • Author: Alice
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12–16 squares
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free
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Description

Caramel Rice Krispie Treats combine the classic crunchy texture of Rice Krispies with rich, buttery caramel for a sweet, chewy, and irresistible snack. Perfect for parties, bake sales, or anytime you crave a homemade candy bar–style treat, these easy-to-make bars bring a delightful twist to a nostalgic favorite.

Ingredients

  • 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal

  • 1 cup caramel candies or homemade caramel

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • ½ cup sweetened condensed milk

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • Optional toppings: sea salt, chocolate chips, chopped nuts

Instructions

  • Prepare caramel: In a saucepan over low heat, melt butter and caramel candies with sweetened condensed milk, stirring frequently until smooth.

  • Add vanilla: Stir in vanilla extract once the caramel is fully melted and combined.

  • Combine with cereal: Remove from heat and quickly stir in Rice Krispies cereal until well coated.

  • Press into pan: Transfer mixture to a greased or parchment-lined baking pan and press evenly.

  • Add toppings: Sprinkle sea salt, chocolate chips, or nuts on top if desired, gently pressing them into the surface.

  • Cool and cut: Let cool completely before slicing into squares.

Notes

Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled treats for a chocolatey finish.Add chopped pecans or almonds into the mixture for extra crunch.Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for a salted caramel effect.Mix peanut butter into caramel for a peanut butter caramel twist.Use gluten-free crispy rice cereal to make the recipe gluten-free.

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