Introduction
Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful twist on the classic childhood favorite. These treats combine the gooey, chewy texture of traditional Rice Krispie treats with the rich, buttery flavor of salted caramel. The addition of a sea salt sprinkle enhances the sweetness with a perfect balance of salty notes, making these treats an irresistible combination of flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a party dessert, or just something to satisfy your sweet tooth, these treats are sure to please.
Overview of the Recipe
This recipe is a simple and quick way to elevate the classic Rice Krispie treat. The process begins with melting butter and marshmallows together to create the sticky base, which is then enriched with salted caramel sauce and a touch of sea salt. Rice Krispies cereal is stirred into this sweet mixture, then pressed into a pan to set. For an extra layer of flavor, the treats are drizzled with more salted caramel sauce and finished with a sprinkle of sea salt. The result is a delicious treat that’s both sweet and salty, with a satisfying crunch.
History and Origin
Rice Krispie treats have been a beloved snack since the late 1930s, originally created by Kellogg’s employees Mildred Day and Malitta Jensen as a promotional recipe for the Rice Krispies cereal. Over the years, this simple treat has seen countless variations, with different flavors and add-ins becoming popular. The salted caramel version adds a modern twist to the classic, bringing together the trend of salted caramel with the timeless appeal of Rice Krispie treats.
Ingredients
To make Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness to the marshmallow mixture.
- 1 package (10 oz/285g) marshmallows: The base of the treats, providing that classic chewy texture.
- 1/4 cup salted caramel sauce: Infuses the treats with a deep, buttery caramel flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal: The crispy base that gives the treats their signature texture.
- Extra salted caramel sauce and sea salt: For drizzling and sprinkling on top, adding more flavor and a decorative finish.
Instructions
Here’s how to prepare Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats:
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
- Grease the pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper. This step ensures easy removal of the treats once they’ve set.
Step 2: Melt the Marshmallows
- Melt the butter: In a large saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over low heat.
- Add the marshmallows: Once the butter has melted, add the package of marshmallows. Stir continuously over low heat until the marshmallows are fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Step 3: Add Salted Caramel
- Stir in the caramel and salt: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1/4 cup of salted caramel sauce and 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt. Mix until the caramel and salt are well combined with the marshmallow mixture, creating a rich, sweet base.
Step 4: Mix with Cereal
- Add the Rice Krispies: Immediately add 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal to the marshmallow mixture. Stir quickly and thoroughly until the cereal is evenly coated with the sticky, caramel-flavored marshmallow mixture.
Step 5: Press into Pan
- Transfer to the pan: Pour the cereal mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch pan.
- Press down: Using a spatula or buttered hands, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan, ensuring an even layer. This helps the treats hold their shape and creates a dense, chewy texture.
Step 6: Drizzle and Sprinkle
- Add caramel and salt: Drizzle additional salted caramel sauce over the top of the pressed cereal mixture. Then, lightly sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for added flavor and visual appeal.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Allow to cool: Let the Rice Krispie treats cool completely in the pan at room temperature. This helps them set properly, making them easier to cut and serve.
- Cut and serve: Once cooled, cut the treats into squares and serve. Enjoy the sweet, salty, and crunchy goodness!
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats are perfect for a variety of occasions:
- Party Desserts: Serve them at parties, potlucks, or family gatherings as an easy and crowd-pleasing dessert.
- Snack Time: These treats are great for a quick snack or lunchbox addition.
- Dessert Toppings: Use them as a topping for ice cream sundaes or yogurt parfaits for an added crunch and flavor.
Variations of the Recipe
This recipe can be customized with different flavors and add-ins:
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate over the top for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Peanut Butter: Stir in 1/4 cup of peanut butter with the caramel sauce for a nutty twist.
- Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, with the cereal for added texture and flavor.
- Marshmallow Swirl: Reserve some marshmallows to stir in just before pressing the mixture into the pan, creating pockets of extra gooeyness.
Health Benefits
While Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats are a sweet indulgence, they can also offer some benefits:
- Portion Control: Cutting the treats into small squares helps with portion control, allowing you to enjoy a sweet treat without overindulging.
- Low-Fat Option: Using unsalted butter and controlling the amount of caramel sauce can make this a relatively low-fat dessert compared to other baked goods.
For a healthier twist, consider reducing the amount of sugar or using a lower-calorie caramel sauce.
FAQs
1. Can I make these treats ahead of time?
Yes, Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats can be made a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to a month.
3. Can I use homemade caramel sauce?
Absolutely! Homemade caramel sauce can be used instead of store-bought, which may give the treats a more personalized and rich flavor.
4. Can I make these treats gluten-free?
Yes, ensure that the Rice Krispies cereal and marshmallows you use are gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free versions of these ingredients.
5. How do I keep the treats from sticking to my hands?
Butter your hands or use a piece of parchment paper when pressing the mixture into the pan to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that brings together the beloved flavor of salted caramel with the classic crunch of Rice Krispie treats. Perfect for any occasion, these treats are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth with their gooey texture and balanced sweet-salty flavor. Whether you’re making them for a party, a snack, or just because, this recipe is a surefire hit. Try it out and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures!