Name: Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: PT-488398H52M6S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade); 10 oz mini marshmallows; 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional); Flaky sea salt, for topping

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars take everything you love about traditional Rice Krispie treats and make them even better with the bold, buttery richness of caramel and a touch of sea salt. They’re easy to prepare, require only a few ingredients, and are ideal for satisfying your sweet-and-salty cravings. Plus, they hold up well for sharing or gifting—if you can resist eating them all yourself.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Unsalted butter
Mini marshmallows
Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Rice Krispies cereal
Sea salt or flaky salt (for topping)
Vanilla extract (optional)

Directions

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add the caramel sauce and stir until smooth and fully combined with the butter.
Stir in the mini marshmallows and continue stirring until completely melted and smooth.
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract (if using).
Add the Rice Krispies cereal and stir gently until fully coated in the caramel mixture.
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and press down lightly with a buttered spatula or wax paper to spread evenly—do not press too firmly to keep the bars soft and chewy.
Sprinkle the top with sea salt or flaky salt while still warm.
Let cool at room temperature for about 30–60 minutes until set.
Cut into squares and serve.

Servings and timing

Makes 12–16 bars
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Cool time: 30–60 minutes
Total time: 45–75 minutes

Variations

Drizzle extra caramel or melted chocolate on top for added richness.
Mix in crushed pretzels or chopped peanuts for extra crunch.
Use browned butter for a nutty, deep flavor profile.
Stir in a handful of mini chocolate chips or toffee bits after mixing in the cereal.
Make them gluten-free by using certified gluten-free rice cereal and caramel.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week.
Do not microwave or freeze, as this can affect the texture and make them overly hard or soggy.

FAQs

Can I use large marshmallows instead of mini?

Yes, just chop them up or allow a bit more melting time.

What kind of caramel sauce should I use?

Any thick, high-quality store-bought or homemade caramel sauce will work. Avoid overly runny sauces.

Do I need to refrigerate these?

No, they’re best stored at room temperature in a sealed container.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, they hold up well for 2–3 days and are great for making in advance for parties.

Can I add extra salt?

Absolutely. If you love a strong salty-sweet combo, sprinkle a little extra flaky sea salt on top.

How do I keep them soft and chewy?

Don’t overcook the marshmallow mixture, and avoid pressing too firmly into the pan.

Can I use salted butter?

You can, but reduce or skip the sea salt topping to avoid making them overly salty.

What can I use to press the mixture without sticking?

A buttered spatula, wax paper, or parchment paper works well to press the mixture evenly.

Can kids help make these?

Yes, just make sure an adult handles the hot mixture. Kids will love helping press and sprinkle salt.

Do they travel well?

Yes, they’re sturdy and perfect for packing into lunchboxes, treat bags, or picnic baskets.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats are the ultimate no-bake indulgence that balances sweetness with a touch of salt for an addictive flavor profile. Whether you’re making them for a crowd or just to satisfy a craving, these upgraded cereal bars are quick, easy, and guaranteed to disappear fast. Add them to your list of go-to treats—you won’t regret it.