Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- ½ cup salted butter
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 20 soft caramels (Kraft recommended)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ teaspoon salt
Marshmallows & Cereal
- 16 ounces mini marshmallows, divided (6½ cups + 2 cups)
- 9 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Toppings (Optional)
- Caramel sauce
- Flakey salt
Instructions
- Prepare Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and spray it lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Melt Butter and Condensed Milk: In a large pot over low heat, melt ½ cup salted butter. Once melted, add 14 ounces of sweetened condensed milk and stir continuously to combine fully without scorching.
- Add Caramels, Vanilla, and Salt: Add 20 soft caramels to the pot and continue stirring until they are completely melted and smooth. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and ¾ teaspoon salt, mixing evenly throughout the caramel base.
- Melt Majority of Marshmallows: Add 6½ cups of mini marshmallows to the pot (reserve the other 2 cups for later). Stir constantly until the marshmallows are fully melted and incorporated into the caramel mixture.
- Combine with Cereal and Remaining Marshmallows: Remove the pot from heat. Fold in 9 cups of Rice Krispies cereal along with the remaining 2 cups of mini marshmallows using a rubber spatula. Mix thoroughly until all cereal and marshmallows are evenly coated with the caramel mixture.
- Press Into Pan: Transfer the coated cereal mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use another piece of parchment paper to gently press the mixture evenly into the pan, ensuring it is compact.
- Add Toppings and Set: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle with flakey salt if desired. Allow the treats to cool and set at room temperature for 30 minutes before slicing into 15 squares and serving.
Notes
- Use low heat throughout to prevent burning the caramel mixture.
- Reserve some mini marshmallows to maintain a chewy texture in the treats.
- For best results, press the treats firmly but gently to avoid crushing the cereal.
- Optional caramel sauce and flakey salt toppings add extra flavor contrast.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
