These Caramel Rice Krispie Treats are sweet, chewy, and incredibly satisfying. Classic crispy rice treats get an upgrade with gooey caramel, making them perfect for dessert, snack time, or parties. Easy to make with just a few ingredients, they’re a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Chewy, golden, and loaded with sweet caramel flavor
- Quick and simple to make with pantry staples
- Perfect for dessert, snacks, or party treats
- Can be customized with chocolate drizzle or nuts
- Kid-friendly and ideal for holidays or school events
Ingredients

- 6 cups crispy rice cereal
- 1 (10-ounce) bag mini marshmallows
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: sea salt for sprinkling
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Instructions

- Prepare the pan: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Melt marshmallows: In a large saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
- Add caramel: Stir in ½ cup caramel sauce and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Mix with cereal: Remove from heat and fold in crispy rice cereal until evenly coated.
- Transfer to pan: Press mixture into prepared baking dish using a spatula or lightly greased hands.
- Add toppings: Drizzle additional caramel sauce on top and sprinkle with sea salt, nuts, or chocolate chips if desired.
- Cool and cut: Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For extra gooey treats, add an extra 2 tablespoons of caramel.
- Mix in peanut butter for a nutty flavor.
- Top with melted chocolate or sprinkle with crushed toffee.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days for maximum freshness.
Storage & Freezer Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individually or in portions and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Keep soft: Press plastic wrap directly onto the top to prevent drying out.
Serving & Pairing Ideas

- Serve with a glass of cold milk or plant-based milk.
- Pair with coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy snack.
- Cut into fun shapes for parties or holiday treats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these treats ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and store in an airtight container at room temperature. They maintain their chewy texture for several days.
Can I use gluten-free cereal?
Absolutely! Choose a certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal to make the treats gluten-free.
How do I make them extra gooey?
Add a few extra tablespoons of caramel or slightly underbake, then let them cool to set.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Yes! Fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.
Ready to Make It?
These Caramel Rice Krispie Treats are chewy, sweet, and perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and utterly irresistible, they’re a fun twist on a classic favorite. Save this recipe for your next snack or party treat!
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Caramel Rice Krispie Treats
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 12–16 squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Caramel Rice Krispie Treats are chewy, sweet, and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for dessert, snacks, or parties, they’re easy to make and loved by all ages.
Ingredients
6 cups crispy rice cereal
1 (10-ounce) bag mini marshmallows
¼ cup unsalted butter
½ cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: sea salt for sprinkling
Optional: ¼ cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips
Instructions
1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
3. Stir in ½ cup caramel sauce and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Remove from heat and fold in crispy rice cereal until evenly coated.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish using a spatula or lightly greased hands.
6. Drizzle additional caramel sauce on top and sprinkle with sea salt, nuts, or chocolate chips if desired.
7. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
For extra gooey treats, add an extra 2 tablespoons of caramel.
Mix in peanut butter for a nutty flavor.
Top with melted chocolate or sprinkle with crushed toffee.
Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 210
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg