Delicious Rice Krispie Treats Recipe from Smitten Kitchen: 1 Minute to Create These Irresistible Treats

Rice Krispie Treats are a classic, nostalgic dessert—gooey, crisp, and bursting with buttery marshmallow flavor. If you’re a fan of Smitten Kitchen’s approachable, always-perfect bakes, you’ll love this version that elevates the classic bar with just a few smart tweaks. The secret? Extra butter, a sprinkle of salt, and just the right proportion of marshmallows. Here’s how you can whip up a batch at home for birthdays, parties, or just to treat yourself on a regular afternoon.

Ingredients:

1. 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus more for greasing the pan)
2. 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt
3. One 10-ounce bag mini marshmallows (about 5 1/2 cups), plus 1 cup extra for stirring in
4. 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal

Instructions:

1. Lightly butter an 8x8-inch square baking pan. For thinner treats, use a 9x13-inch pan.
2. In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Continue cooking, stirring often, until the butter turns golden brown and smells nutty (about 2-3 minutes). This browning step is key for deep flavor!
3. Add the salt and most of the marshmallows (reserve 1 cup for later). Stir occasionally until completely smooth and melted.
4. Remove the pot from the heat and add the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir to combine with a buttered spatula. Quickly fold in the reserved 1 cup of marshmallows for extra gooey pockets.
5. Scrape the sticky mixture into the prepared pan. Gently press into an even layer—don’t pack them too tightly or they’ll become dense.
6. Let cool for 30 minutes, then slice into squares and serve. Enjoy!

As a designer, my approach treats each treat like a mini work of edible design—balancing textures, stacking layers just right, and even considering how these bars look when cut. If you’re passionate about creating beautiful and inviting spaces (including your kitchen or dining area), I always recommend using tools that let you visualize your culinary setup before you host your next dessert night. For instance, you can explore a kitchen layout planner to help design your ideal baking environment—making these treats (and countless others) even more enjoyable to prepare and share.

Tips 1:

For perfectly neat squares, let treats cool fully before slicing, and use a sharp knife lightly coated with butter or cooking spray. For extra flair, drizzle melted chocolate over the top!

FAQ

Q: Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini ones?

A: Yes, just chop large marshmallows into smaller pieces for even melting and texture.

Q: How should I store Rice Krispie Treats?

A: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They freeze well, too—just wrap individually!

Q: Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or sprinkles?

A: Absolutely. Stir in your favorite mix-ins with the cereal for creative flavors and pops of color.

Q: Is browning the butter necessary?

A: It’s optional, but highly recommended for a toasty, richer taste that elevates the classic treat.

Q: How do I keep my treats soft for longer?

A: Don’t overcook the marshmallows, and resist packing the mixture too tightly in the pan. Extra marshmallow bits folded in will also keep things gooey and soft!