Introduction

These Chocolate Caramel Rice Krispie Squares are a delightful twist on the classic treat, combining the crunch of Rice Krispies with smooth caramel and rich chocolate layers. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, they are easy to make and sure to impress at any gathering.

The image shows a close-up of rectangular dessert bars placed on a textured brown burlap cloth over a white marbled texture background. Each bar has three distinct layers: the bottom layer is a thick, white and light tan crispy rice cereal base with a fluffy texture; the middle layer is a smooth, light caramel-colored layer; the top layer is a glossy, dark brown chocolate coating with thin caramel drizzle lines running across horizontally. The bars rest on small white round paper liners, adding contrast and neatness to the presentation. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 1/2 tablespoons butter
2 cups mini marshmallows or about 20 large
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
4 cups Rice Krispies cereal
7 ounces caramels (about 25 caramels, half a bag)
1 tablespoon water
3/4 cup smooth peanut butter, divided (1/2 cup for caramel layer, 1/4 cup for chocolate layer)
8 ounces milk chocolate, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Grease a 9 x 9 inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, melt the butter in the microwave just until melted. Add the marshmallows and stir to coat them with the butter. Microwave until the marshmallows are melted, stirring after 40 seconds. This should take about 1 to 1 ½ minutes.
Step 3: Remove from the microwave and stir in the vanilla extract. Then combine with the Rice Krispies cereal and mix well.
Step 4: Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form an even layer.
Step 5: Remove the wrappers from the caramels and place them in a small non-stick saucepan. Add the water and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, just until the caramels melt. Be careful not to burn the mixture.
Step 6: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1/2 cup of peanut butter until smooth. Pour this caramel mixture evenly over the Rice Krispie layer and spread gently.
Step 7: Place the chopped milk chocolate in a small non-stick saucepan and melt over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid overheating.
Step 8: Remove from heat and stir in the remaining 1/4 cup of peanut butter until well combined. Pour the chocolate peanut butter mixture over the caramel layer and spread evenly.
Step 9: Refrigerate the pan to allow the chocolate layer to set.
Step 10: Once set, cut into squares. Serve at room temperature for the best texture.

Tips & Variations

Use parchment paper to line the pan for easy removal of the bars once set.
Swap milk chocolate for dark chocolate if you prefer a richer flavor.
Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate layer for a sweet and salty contrast.
For a nut-free version, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.

Storage

Store the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before serving, allow them to come to room temperature to soften the caramel layer for the best taste and texture.

How to Serve

The image shows three square treats placed on pieces of white paper over a coarse brown textured cloth. Each treat has three layers: the bottom layer is a light beige, crunchy rice cereal mixed with a white marshmallow-like binder, giving it a bumpy texture; the middle layer is a smooth golden caramel; the top layer is a shiny, dark chocolate coating accented with thin, wavy caramel lines. The treats are positioned diagonally, with two in focus in the front and one slightly blurred in the background on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini ones?

Yes, you can use large marshmallows. Approximately 20 large marshmallows will equal 2 cups of mini ones.

Do I have to refrigerate these bars?

Refrigerating helps the chocolate layer set nicely, but you can enjoy them immediately. Just be mindful that the caramel layer may be softer if not chilled.