Description
These Cranberry Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats combine the classic crispy texture of rice cereal with the rich nuttiness of browned butter and the tart freshness of cranberries. Perfect for a festive snack or dessert, these treats are studded with mini marshmallows and fresh cranberries, creating a delightful balance of sweetness and tang.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 6 cups mini marshmallows
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 6 cups crispy rice cereal
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 & 1/2 cups fresh cranberries, roughly chopped
- Additional mini marshmallows (for topping)
- Additional whole cranberries (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch square pan with parchment paper or foil. Spray the lining with nonstick spray to ensure easy removal later. Set aside.
- Brown the Butter: In a 3-quart pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking while stirring occasionally. Watch for the foam to turn golden and for the butter to emit a nutty aroma, indicating it has browned.
- Melt Initial Marshmallows: Add 6 cups of mini marshmallows and 1/8 teaspoon salt to the browned butter. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Cereal: Stir in 6 cups of crispy rice cereal, gently folding until the cereal is just barely coated with the marshmallow mixture. Remove the pot from heat immediately to prevent overcooking.
- Mix Remaining Marshmallows and Cranberries: Add 2 cups of mini marshmallows and the roughly chopped cranberries to the mixture. Stir until evenly combined.
- First Layer in Pan: Working quickly, press half of the cereal mixture into the prepared pan evenly. If desired, sprinkle a handful of mini marshmallows and whole cranberries on top for added texture and appearance.
- Add Second Layer: Spoon the remaining mixture over the first layer and press down firmly to create an even top layer.
- Final Topping: Optionally, top the bars with additional mini marshmallows and whole cranberries for decoration and extra flavor.
- Cool and Set: Allow the treats to cool at room temperature until firm, which helps them hold their shape when cut.
- Storage: Store the bars in a tightly sealed container or ziplock bag at room temperature. These treats are best enjoyed on the first day for maximum freshness.
Notes
- Use fresh cranberries for the best tart flavor; if unavailable, dried cranberries can be substituted but will change the texture and sweetness.
- Browned butter adds a nutty depth to traditional rice krispie treats, but be careful not to burn it.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure the bars hold together well.
- These treats are best consumed fresh but can be stored for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
- Customize the cranberries and marshmallow toppings to your liking for presentation and additional flavor.
