Description
These Salted Caramel Apple Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful twist on the classic treat, featuring a rich salted caramel sauce made with brown sugar and apple cider, combined with crispy Rice Krispies cereal and chewy dried apples. Toasted marshmallows add an extra depth of flavor and texture, creating a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and fruity in every bite. Ideal for gatherings or as a special homemade snack.
Ingredients
Caramel Mixture
- 2 sticks (1 cup) salted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 1 teaspoon salt
Rice Krispie Treat
- 1 bag (10-ounce) mini marshmallows
- 1 box (12-ounce) Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 bag (3-4 ounces) dried apples, no added sugar
- 1 bag (12-ounce) regular marshmallows
Instructions
- Prepare Pan and Broiler: Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup. Preheat your oven’s broiler to get it ready for toasting the marshmallows later.
- Make the Caramel Sauce: In a large pot over medium heat, add the butter and brown sugar. Allow the butter to melt fully, then pour in the apple cider. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Continue cooking until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture turns dark and bubbly, approximately 5 minutes. Stir in the salt to enhance the caramel flavor, then reduce the heat to low.
- Melt Mini Marshmallows: Add the mini marshmallows to the caramel mixture and stir constantly over low heat until fully melted and smooth, about 5 minutes. Remove the pot from heat once the marshmallows are incorporated.
- Combine with Dry Ingredients: Quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal and dried apple pieces, mixing thoroughly to coat everything evenly with the caramel marshmallow mixture.
- Toast Regular Marshmallows: Spread the regular marshmallows on a baking sheet in a single layer. Place under the preheated broiler and toast for 1-2 minutes until they puff and develop a golden color. Watch them closely as marshmallows toast very fast and can burn easily.
- Incorporate Toasted Marshmallows: Remove the toasted marshmallows from the broiler and immediately mix them into the Rice Krispie and apple mixture to add extra flavor and gooey texture.
- Shape and Set: Transfer the combined mixture to the lined 9×13 inch pan. Press it evenly and firmly to pack the treats tightly together. Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top to finish with a crunchy, savory note.
- Cooling and Serving: Allow the treats to cool and set completely for 30 minutes to an hour at room temperature. Once set, cut into bars and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Be sure to watch the marshmallows closely when broiling to prevent burning.
- Pressing the mixture firmly in the pan helps the treats hold together better when cutting.
- Using salted butter adds a balanced salty flavor; if using unsalted butter, adjust added salt accordingly.
- These treats are best enjoyed within 5 days for optimal freshness and texture.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure the Rice Krispies cereal is labeled gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American