If you’re looking for an easy dessert that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, these Brown Butter Dulce Krispies are a must-try. In just 10 minutes, you’ll transform the humble cereal bar into a rich, elegant treat layered with nutty brown butter, warm cinnamon sugar, and gooey dulce de leche.
Why You’ll Love These Brown Butter Dulce Krispies
- Brown butter magic: Nutty, caramelized butter adds depth to every bite.
- Gooey texture: Melted and whole marshmallows create the perfect chewy balance.
- Surprise center: A hidden layer of dulce de leche takes these treats to the next level.
- No oven required: Perfect for warm days or quick dessert fixes.
- Ready in 10 minutes: Quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing.
These cereal bars aren’t just another sweet snack—they’re a full-on dessert experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter – for that toasty, nutty brown butter base
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract – to round out the flavor
- 10 cups mini marshmallows, divided – 8 cups melted, 2 cups folded in
- 6 cups cinnamon sugar Rice Krispies – or use plain with added cinnamon sugar
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt – balances sweetness
- ½ can dulce de leche – rich caramel center that surprises and delights
How to Make Brown Butter Dulce Krispies
🔪 Step 1: Prep the Pan
Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment or foil, leaving overhang for easy removal. Spray it generously with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
🧈 Step 2: Brown the Butter
In a light-colored pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir constantly as it foams and begins to darken. Once golden flecks appear and the aroma turns nutty, remove from heat immediately to prevent burning.
🍬 Step 3: Melt the Marshmallows
Stir in the salt and 8 cups of mini marshmallows into the browned butter. Mix until completely smooth and glossy. Return to low heat briefly if needed to melt fully.
🍦 Step 4: Add Vanilla
Mix in the vanilla extract, blending it evenly through the marshmallow mixture.
🥣 Step 5: Combine with Cereal
Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the cinnamon sugar cereal in a large bowl. Stir gently to coat every piece.
🍥 Step 6: Fold in Extra Marshmallows
While the mixture is still warm, fold in the remaining 2 cups of mini marshmallows. This creates little pockets of gooey marshmallow throughout the treats.
🧁 Step 7: Layer with Dulce de Leche
Press half the cereal mixture into the prepared pan. Spread the dulce de leche in an even layer over the base. Top with the remaining cereal mixture and gently press down using a buttered spoon.
🧊 Step 8: Cool and Slice
Let the treats cool completely at room temperature before cutting into squares. This ensures they hold their shape and slice cleanly.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use a light-colored pan for browning butter to clearly see the color change.
- Don’t press too hard when layering — light pressure preserves a tender, chewy texture.
- If mixture is sticky, lightly wet your hands or spoon with cold water before pressing.
- For clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water, wiping between each cut.
Final Thoughts
These Brown Butter Dulce Krispies prove that cereal bars can be sophisticated, flavorful, and truly special. With warm cinnamon, nutty brown butter, and a creamy caramel center, every bite delivers comfort and decadence in one easy dessert.