I’m sharing a recipe that’s you will surely enjoy, Brown Butter Rice Crispy Treats. These aren't your average Rice Krispies treats; I am taking this childhood favorite to a whole new level with the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter by adding 1 secret ingredient. Trust me, once you’ve had these, there’s no going back!

Brown Butter Rice Krispies Treats
Irresistible Brown Butter Rice crispy Treats are childhood classics, you might be wondering, why go through the extra step of browning the butter? Well, let me tell you, it’s totally worth it. Brown butter adds a depth of flavor that transforms these simple treats into something truly special. It gives the Rice Krispies treats a slightly caramelized, nutty taste that pairs perfectly with the gooey marshmallows.
These treats are the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and crunchy. They’re incredibly easy to make and are always a hit at parties, potlucks, or just as a special treat for yourself.

A simple yet delicious twist on the classic Rice Krispies Treats. Give these a try and I guarantee they’ll become a new favorite in your household.
I have also made Scotheroos that you will like, check it out.
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⭐Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ease: This recipe is a quick and easy way to make a delicious dessert that feels special.
- Customizable: This recipe is a great starting point for your own creations. Add extras like chocolate chips, nuts, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate on top to make it your own.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Rice Crispy Treats bring back great memories, and this upgraded version will impress both kids and adults. They're perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a sweet snack anytime.
🧾Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make these treats:

- Butter: I use unsalted butter so I can control the saltiness. It gives a rich, buttery flavor and helps hold the marshmallows and cereal together perfectly.
- Milk Powder: I love using milk powder for a creamy, slightly toasted flavor that goes great with the brown butter and helps bind everything together.
- Salt: A pinch to balance the sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract: Just a splash for a hint of sweetness.
- Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows melt quicker, but if you've got the big ones, they'll do just fine. They're the main sweetener and binder, giving that gooey, chewy texture that makes Rice Krispy Treats so irresistible.
- Rice Krispies Cereal: The classic base for these treats. Rice Krispies add a light, crispy texture that perfectly balances the gooey marshmallow mixture.
See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and measurements.
👩🏻🍳How to Make Brown Butter Rice Crispy Treats
These step-by-step instructions and photos will help you to visualize how to make this recipe. See the recipe card for a printable version of this recipe.

1. Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, keep stirring until the butter turns a beautiful golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma. This usually takes about 5 minutes.

2. Once the butter is browned, lower the heat and stir in the milk powder. Cook for one more minute, stirring constantly, until the milk powder is fully mixed and slightly toasted.

3. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Add the marshmallows to the pot. Stir continuously until they’re completely melted and smooth.

4. Once the marshmallows are melted, turn off the heat and add the rest. Fold gently just a few times.

5. Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal. Make sure all the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.

6. Pour the mixture into the prepared 20x20 cm (8x8 inch) baking pan with parchment paper, and press it down evenly with a spatula. Let it cool and set for about an hour.

7. Once set, cut into squares and enjoy the gooey, crispy, buttery goodness!
💭Tips for Recipe Success
Use Fresh Marshmallows: Stale marshmallows won’t melt as well and can result in dry, crumbly treats.
Don’t Overpack the Pan: Press the mixture into the pan gently. Packing it too tightly can make the treats too dense.
Add a Pinch of Salt: This helps balance the sweetness and enhances the flavor of the brown butter.
Storage: Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature. They'll stay fresh for up to a week.

❓Commonly Asked Questions
Rice crispy treats typically stay fresh for about a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
🍰More Dessert Recipes!
Here are more of my favorite dessert recipes! Try these:
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📖 Recipe

Brown Butter Rice Crispy Treats
Ingredients
- 100 g Unsalted Butter
- 30 g Milk Powder
- ¼ teaspoon Salt
- 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract
- 400 g Mini Marshmallows
- 200 g Rice Krispies cereal
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat until it begins to brown, starts to smell nutty, and shows some brown bits at the bottom, stirring frequently. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.
- Once the butter is browned, reduce the heat to low and stir in the milk powder. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until the milk powder is fully incorporated and slightly toasted.
- Once the butter and milk powder are browned, turn off the heat and stir in the salt and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add the mini marshmallows to the pot. Turn the heat back on low, stirring constantly until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Once the marshmallows are fully melted, turn off the heat and add the remaining marshmallows. Fold only a couple of times.
- Add the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir until the cereal is fully coated with the marshmallow mixture.
- Quickly transfer the mixture to the prepared 20x20 cm (8x8 inch) baking pan with parchment paper. Use a spatula to press the mixture evenly into the pan. Be careful not to press too hard, as this can make the treats too dense.
- Allow the treats to cool completely at room temperature, for about 1 hour.
- Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the treats into squares.
- Serve and enjoy brown butter rice crispy treats!
Notes
Nutrition
Nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and should be considered an estimate only. Actual nutritional content will vary based upon brands used, measuring methods, cooking method, portion sizes, and more.
Sandra says
These have to be the best Rice Krispies treats ever! The brown butter adds the most amazing nutty flavor, and they're so gooey and delicious.