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Savory Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treat Bars with Sea Salt

savory brown butter rice krispie treat bars - featured image

These savory brown butter Rice Krispie treat bars with sea salt combine a nutty, caramel-like flavor with a perfect salty-sweet balance, making them a quick, satisfying snack or lunchbox favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, browned
  • 4 cups mini marshmallows
  • 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
  • 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt, plus extra for sprinkling
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of ground black pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Brown the butter: Place 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until the butter foams and milk solids brown to a rich amber color, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat immediately.
  2. Add the marshmallows: Toss in 4 cups mini marshmallows and stir gently until melted and smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and a pinch of black pepper if using.
  3. Mix in the Rice Krispies: Quickly pour 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal into the marshmallow mixture. Fold gently with a spatula until evenly coated.
  4. Transfer and press: Pour mixture into a parchment-lined 9×13-inch pan. Press down firmly and evenly using parchment paper or a buttered spatula.
  5. Sprinkle sea salt: While bars are still warm, sprinkle 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt evenly over the surface.
  6. Cool completely: Let bars cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour to set. Optionally refrigerate for 30 minutes to speed cooling.
  7. Cut and serve: Lift bars out using parchment paper and cut into squares or rectangles. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Notes

Watch the butter carefully while browning to avoid burning. Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup. Press bars firmly but not too hard to avoid crumbliness. Sprinkling sea salt while bars are warm helps it stick better. Optional black pepper adds a subtle savory kick. Bars can be refrigerated or frozen for longer storage.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown butter, Rice Krispie treats, sea salt, snack bars, lunchbox treats, quick snack, savory sweet