This post may contain affiliate links. As an amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See my full Disclosure Policy for details.
✨ Browned Butter Rice Crispy Treats are the ultimate upgrade to the classic! Extra gooey, nutty, and perfectly chewy. 😍💛

Pin this now to find it later
Pin ItRice Crispy Treats
If you’re looking for a fun twist on the classic, these Browned Butter Rice Crispy Treats are it! Browning the butter adds a nutty depth of flavor that makes these bars stand out. Whether you call them Rice Crispy Treats or Rice Krispie Treats, this version takes them to the next level.
If you’ve ever wondered how to make rice crispy treats that taste bakery-worthy, this is the way. With gooey marshmallows, crispy cereal, and rich browned butter, this easy Rice Crispy Treats recipe is one you’ll keep on repeat. Perfect for parties, bake sales, or an after-school snack, this homemade rice crispy treats recipe will be gone in no time.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Extra rich flavor thanks to browned butter.
- Classic rice crispy treats made even gooier with extra marshmallows.
- Quick and simple – ready to cut in just over an hour.
- A fun upgrade to the original Rice Krispie treats.

🛒 Ingredients & Substitutions
- unsalted butter – substitute with salted butter, just reduce added salt slightly
- mini marshmallows – use regular marshmallows if needed, just chop them first
- vanilla extract – swap with almond extract for a different flavor
- salt – use fine sea salt for the best results
- crispy rice cereal – any brand works, even cocoa-flavored cereal for a twist
✨ Variations
- Peanut butter – stir in ½ cup creamy peanut butter with the marshmallows.
- Chocolate drizzle – add melted chocolate on top once the bars have cooled.
- Mix-ins – fold in sprinkles, M&M’s, or crushed cookies.









🔥 Tips
- Cook the butter slowly and watch closely – browned butter can burn fast.
- Use the butter wrappers to press the mixture into the pan, which helps prevent sticking.
- Leave some marshmallows whole for that gooey, bakery-style look.
❓ FAQs
Do not pack them too tightly into the pan. Gently press into an even layer.
Yes, use a larger pan or make two 9×13-inch pans.
Yes! They can be made a day in advance, just keep them covered so they don’t dry out.
Absolutely. If you want them extra gooey, add up to 1 additional cup of marshmallows.
Use a serrated knife and wipe the blade with butter or cooking spray for neat edges.
Yes! Try cornflakes, Cheerios, or even cocoa-flavored cereal for a fun twist.
Browning the butter gives the bars a nutty, caramel-like flavor that makes them taste gourmet.

🍽️ Other Recipes You May Enjoy

Browned Butter Rice Crispy Treats
Would you like to save this?
Equipment
- large pot or Dutch oven
- rubber spatula
- serrated knife
Ingredients
- 12 tablespoons unsalted butter, (1½ sticks), plus more for greasing the pan
- 2 bags mini marshmallows, (10 oz each), divided
- ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 8½ cups crispy rice cereal
Instructions
- Line a 9×13-inch pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil, letting the edges hang over the sides. Lightly grease the foil with butter.
- Set aside 2 cups of the marshmallows.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Swirl the pan occasionally until the butter turns golden brown.12 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Remove the pot from the heat and add the remaining marshmallows, vanilla, and salt. Return the pot to medium heat and stir until the marshmallows are completely melted.2 bags mini marshmallows, ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon salt
- Remove the pot from the heat again and stir in the cereal until evenly coated.8½ cups crispy rice cereal
- Add the reserved marshmallows and stir gently until softened and partially melted (do not let them melt completely).
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Use a buttered spatula or butter wrapper to press it gently into an even layer.
- Let the treats cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour.
- Lift the bars out using the foil overhang. Cut into squares or rectangles with a serrated knife.
Notes
🥡 STORAGE
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
♨️ REHEATING
- These are best enjoyed fresh. If slightly firm, leave at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
❄️ FREEZING
- Not recommended. Freezing changes the texture of the marshmallows.
💡 TIPS FOR BEST RESULTS
- Use the butter wrappers to press the mixture into the pan, keeping your hands clean.
- If you prefer, lightly spray your hands with cooking spray or butter before pressing.
- Small golden specks in browned butter are fine, but if they look dark or black, strain the butter before using.
🍳 ALTERNATE COOKING METHODS
- Microwave: Melt butter and marshmallows together in a large microwave-safe bowl in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. Proceed with the recipe.
♻️ LEFTOVERS
- Leftover bars can be wrapped individually in plastic wrap and kept in a sealed bag for freshness.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.