Description
These Cranberry Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats offer a delightful twist on the classic snack by incorporating nutty brown butter and tart cranberries, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Soft marshmallows and crispy rice cereal combine with fresh cranberries for a festive treat ideal for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a sweet, fruity snack.
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 cranberries (fresh, roughly chopped)
Toppings
- More mini marshmallows (for topping as desired)
- More whole cranberries (for topping as desired)
Instructions
- Prepare Pan: Line an 8×8 or 9×9 square pan with parchment paper or foil. Spray it with nonstick spray and set aside to ensure easy removal of treats later.
- Brown the Butter: In a 3-quart pot set over medium heat, melt the butter. Continue cooking and stirring occasionally until the butter foam turns golden and emits a nutty aroma, signaling the brown butter stage.
- Melt Marshmallows: Stir in 6 cups of mini marshmallows and the 1/8 teaspoon of salt. Keep stirring constantly until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth.
- Add Cereal: Mix in the 6 cups of crispy rice cereal until just barely coated with the marshmallow mixture. Remove the pot from heat to prevent overcooking.
- Add Cranberries and Extra Marshmallows: Fold in 2 cups mini marshmallows and the chopped cranberries evenly throughout the mixture.
- Layer Mixture: Working quickly, press half of the mixture firmly into the prepared pan, creating an even base layer. Optionally, top this with a handful of extra mini marshmallows and whole cranberries for texture and decoration.
- Add Remaining Mixture: Scrape the remaining mixture on top of the base layer and press down gently to compact the treat evenly.
- Final Toppings: Add additional mini marshmallows and whole cranberries on top as desired for added visual appeal and texture.
- Cool and Cut: Let the treats cool at room temperature until set. Once firm, cut into bars or squares for serving.
- Storage: Store the treats in a tightly sealed container or ziplock bag at room temperature. They are best enjoyed on the first day for optimal freshness and texture.
Notes
- Using fresh cranberries adds a tangy contrast and freshness to the sweet treats.
- Brown butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the traditional rice krispie treat.
- Work quickly when pressing the mixture into the pan as it sets fast once cooled.
- For a softer treat, serve shortly after cooling; for a firmer texture, allow to set longer at room temperature.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the treats from becoming sticky or stale.
