These aren’t your average Rice Krispie treats. These are sweet, salty, gooey, and totally next-level. A buttery marshmallow base meets a silky caramel topping and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt that ties it all together in one ridiculously addictive bite. They’re easy to make, totally crowd-pleasing, and honestly? Kind of magic.
Let’s turn your favorite childhood treat into something extra special.
Why You’ll Love These
✔ Quick & easy. No baking, minimal effort, BIG payoff.
✔ Sweet + salty combo. The caramel and sea salt take it over the top.
✔ Perfect for any occasion. School snacks, potlucks, bake sales—these win every time.
✔ Only a few ingredients. You probably already have them on hand!
✔ Soft, chewy texture. With that deliciously sticky caramel finish.
What Do They Taste Like?
Think classic Rice Krispie treats—soft, buttery, marshmallowy—now topped with a warm blanket of silky caramel and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Every bite is gooey, chewy, sweet with a kick of salt, and melts in your mouth. It’s like a gourmet candy bar and a childhood snack had a baby. 💛
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these irresistible bars:
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6 cups Rice Krispies cereal – or your favorite crispy rice cereal
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3 tablespoons salted butter – for that classic flavor
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1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows – about 5 ½ to 6 cups
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20–25 soft caramel candies – like Kraft or Werther’s
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2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk – helps smooth the caramel
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Flaky sea salt – for sprinkling (Maldon or kosher works well)
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Nonstick spray or butter – to grease your pan
Tools You’ll Need
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Large pot
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Microwave-safe bowl
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Rubber spatula or spoon
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9×13-inch baking dish
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Knife for slicing
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Parchment paper (optional)
How to Make Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats
Step 1: Make the Base
In a large pot, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add mini marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
Remove from heat and immediately stir in Rice Krispies cereal. Mix until everything is well-coated.
Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch pan using a buttered spatula or parchment paper. Press gently—don’t pack too hard or they’ll be stiff!
Step 2: Melt the Caramel
Unwrap about 20–25 soft caramels and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Add 2–3 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk.
Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well in between, until the mixture is smooth and pourable (about 1½ to 2 minutes total).
Step 3: Caramel Layer
Pour the warm caramel sauce over the Rice Krispie layer. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the top. It should glide right over if your treats are still slightly warm.
Step 4: Sprinkle with Salt
While the caramel is still glossy and wet, generously sprinkle with flaky sea salt. This step makes the flavor POP—don’t skip it!
Step 5: Cool & Slice
Let the treats cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or until the caramel layer is firm enough to slice. (You can speed things up a bit in the fridge if needed.)
Use a sharp knife to cut into squares, wipe the knife between cuts for clean edges, and serve!
What to Serve With Them
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Hot coffee or tea – balances the sweetness
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Milk – classic treat pairing
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Vanilla ice cream – if you’re going ultra-indulgent
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A sprinkle of mini chocolate chips – for caramel-chocolate lovers
Tips for Perfect Rice Krispie Treats
✔ Don’t overheat the marshmallows. Low and slow gives you soft, chewy results.
✔ Use fresh marshmallows. Older ones don’t melt well and make the texture tough.
✔ Grease everything. Spatulas, your hands, even the bowl—sticky marshmallows are no joke!
✔ Want extra richness? Brown the butter before adding marshmallows for a deeper flavor.
Storage Instructions
At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
In the fridge: Keeps longer (about a week), but let them come to room temp before eating.
Freezer-friendly: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade caramel?
Yes! If you have a go-to caramel sauce, you can drizzle it right over the treats while warm.
What can I use instead of caramels?
Try a thick jarred caramel sauce (like Ghirardelli or Smucker’s), just heat it slightly before pouring.
Can I add chocolate?
Absolutely. Drizzle melted chocolate over the caramel or mix mini chips into the base before pressing.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Use vegan butter, plant-based marshmallows, and a coconut-based caramel for a dairy-free option.
Final Thoughts: Sweet, Salty, and So Easy
These Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats take everything you love about the classic and dial it up with rich, gooey caramel and a salty finish. Whether you’re making them for a party, after-school snack, or midnight craving—you’ll be shocked how fast they vanish.
Snap a pic before they disappear and tag your caramel-covered masterpiece. 🍬✨
More Treats You’ll Love:
🍫 Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars
🍪 Cookie Dough Rice Krispie Treats
🍓 Strawberry Shortcake Marshmallow Bars