Name: Brown Butter Crispies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 20 ounces mini marshmallows; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 9 cups crispy rice cereal

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BROWN BUTTER CRISPIES – Nutty brown butter rice crispy treats made extra chewy with gooey marshmallows—simple, elevated, and impossible to stop snacking on.

These brown butter rice crispy treats are a simple classic with a cozy, irresistible upgrade. Browning the butter adds a warm, nutty depth that takes these from everyday to absolutely crave-worthy—soft, chewy, and perfect for sharing (or not). Once you try them this way, there’s no going back.

Ingredients

Unsalted butter
Mini marshmallows
Vanilla extract
Salt
Crispy rice cereal

Supplies you’ll need

Essential

Large stockpot
Rubber spatula (heat-resistant)
Measuring cups and spoons
9×13-inch baking dish
Nonstick spray or butter (for greasing)

Optional but handy

Parchment paper (for easy removal and clean cuts)
Kitchen scale (for precise marshmallow measuring)
Plastic wrap or airtight container (for storage)

Ways to serve Brown Butter Crispies

Warm drinks: Serve these brown butter rice crispy treats alongside a cozy mug of hot chocolate, coffee, or chai for an easy dessert moment that feels extra comforting. The warm drinks pair beautifully with the nutty richness of the browned butter.

Fresh berries: For a fun party spread, add a bowl of fresh berries on the side. The brightness of the fruit balances the sweetness and adds a pop of color to the table.

Toppings: Dress them up with simple garnishes like a drizzle of melted chocolate, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving for a bakery-style finish.

Dessert board: Include pretzels, popcorn, and fruit snacks alongside the treats. It turns a simple recipe into a fun, shareable dessert experience.

Tips and tricks

Watch the butter closely: Brown butter can go from perfectly nutty to burnt very quickly. As soon as the popping slows and you smell that warm, toasted aroma, it’s ready. Trust your nose—it’s the best indicator.

Use a large pot: Once the cereal goes in, things get crowded fast. A roomy stockpot makes stirring easier and helps prevent crushed cereal.

Stir gently when adding cereal: Folding instead of stirring aggressively keeps the cereal intact and helps maintain that soft, gooey texture everyone loves.

Don’t pack them into the pan: Pressing too hard is the fastest way to lose chewiness. Light pressure with a spatula—or even slightly greased hands—is all you need.

If you give these brown butter rice crispy treats a try, I’d love to hear what you think. Leave a comment, share how you served them, or pass the recipe along to someone who loves a classic dessert with a little twist—it truly makes my day to see these treats enjoyed in your kitchen, too.

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