Brown butter rice krispie treats take the classic to the next level. Gooey marshmallows and crispy cereal come together with rich, nutty brown butter for an elevated twist on the beloved childhood snack!

A stack of three brown butter rice krispie treats on a plate.

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Browned Butter Rice Krispie Treats

These brown butter rice krispie treats are one of my favorite no-bake desserts! We make classic rice krispie treats recipe often, but I also love switching it up with peanut butter rice krispie treats and no bake scotcheroos, too.

What makes this version extra special is the rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter. They’re still chewy, gooey, and marshmallowy like the ones you grew up with, but that buttery depth takes them to the next level!

XO - Jamielyn

Ingredient Notes

Rice krispies, mini marshmallows and butter on the counter.

Find the full printable recipe with specific measurements below.

  • Butter: Start with salted butter and brown it until golden and nutty for rich, toasty flavor.
  • Mini marshmallows: Melted into the butter to make the gooey base. Save a handful to stir in at the end for extra ooey gooey marshmallow pockets.
  • Rice Krispies cereal: The classic crisp rice cereal gives these treats their signature crunch. Any store brand will work!

How to Make Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats

Making brown butter in a white pot.

Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Once melted, continue cooking for 2 more minutes, until golden brown. Remove pan immediately from heat and rest 1 minute.

Marshmallows being added to the pot of browned butter.

Add 7-8 cups marshmallows to the pan and stir until they melt. Once they are almost melted, pour mixture over a bowl of Rice Krispies and marshmallows that have been set aside. Mix until completely coated.

Brown butter rice krispie treats pressed down in a clear baking dish.

Add mixture to baking dish and press down with a spoon coated in butter or wax paper to compact and level out surface. Allow to cool and then slice into squares.

A hand holding a brown butter rice krispie treat showing gooey texture.

More dessert recipes we love with brown butter include brown butter chocolate chip cookies or brown butter blondies.

More Rice Krispies Treats Recipes

A stack of three brown butter rice krispie treats on a plate.

Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats

5 from 11 votes
Recipe by: Jamielyn Nye
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cool: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 16 squares
Brown butter rice krispie treats are an elevated twist on a classic with gooey marshmallows, crispy cereal and rich, nutty brown butter.
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Ingredients 

  • 6 Tablespoons salted butter
  • 16 ounce mini marshmallows
  • 6 cups rice krispies cereal (about 1/2 a box)

Instructions

  • Line a 9×9″ baking dish with foil and butter. Place the cereal and 2-3 cups of the marshmallows in a large bowl. Set aside.
  • Melt 6 Tablespoons butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Once melted, continue cooking the butter for about 2 more minutes, until it has turned golden brown. To prevent it from sticking to your pan, make sure to swirl it around using the pan handle. The butter will turn a golden amber color and will put off a nutty aroma. That's when you’ll know it’s done. Remove the pan immediately from the heat (so that it doesn't burn) and let sit just a minute.
  • Add 7-8 cups marshmallows to the pan and stir until they melt. Once they are almost melted, pour over the rice krispies in the bowl. Mix until completely coated with the marshmallow mixture. 
  • Add mixture to baking dish and press down with a spoon coated in butter or wax paper to compact and level out surface. 
  • Allow to cool and then slice into 16 squares (or 9 large squares). I find using a plastic knife to cut them works best. Store in a covered container.

Last step: Please leave a comment and rating after you make the recipe.

Notes

Grease foil with butter: Cooking spray leaves an oily residue on the crispy treats.
Storing: These rice krispies will keep for up to 3 days if stored in an airtight container or bag. 
 

Nutrition

Serving: 1square, Calories: 198kcal, Carbohydrates: 38g, Protein: 1g, Fat: 4g, Saturated Fat: 2g, Cholesterol: 11mg, Sodium: 146mg, Potassium: 19mg, Sugar: 19g, Vitamin A: 1170IU, Vitamin C: 9.8mg, Calcium: 3mg, Iron: 4.8mg

Nutrition provided is an estimate. It will vary based on specific ingredients used.

Variations

  • Gluten-free: For gluten-free, vegan, or dairy-free versions, you’ll want to make sure to check your packages for certifications.
  • Add color! Add food coloring or sprinkles for a festive idea at the holidays.
  • Extra crunch. For added crunchy textures and fun flavor, mix in M&Ms, butterscotch chips, white chocolate, or chocolate chips.
  • Salty and sweet. Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for an extra bit of saltiness.
  • Vanilla extract. Adding a bit of vanilla to the brown butter will give your rice krispies even more of a caramel flavor.

FAQs

Why aren’t my marshmallows melting smoothly?

If your marshmallows aren’t melting properly, they may be too old. As marshmallows age, they dry out and lose moisture, which can make them melt unevenly. For the smoothest, gooey texture, always use fresh marshmallows.

Why are my brown butter Rice Krispie treats hard?

This usually happens when the marshmallow mixture is overheated or the treats are packed too tightly into the pan. Be sure to melt the mixture gently over low heat, and press it into the pan lightly to keep that soft, chewy texture.

How do I store them?

Keep your brown butter rice krispie treats in an airtight container at room temperature. If they’re left uncovered, they’ll dry out and become hard.

Can I freeze them?

Yes! Wrap each square individually and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months—just pull out a piece whenever you need a quick treat.