Caramel Rolo Rice Krispie Treats: A Decadent Twist on a Classic
Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable experience with Caramel Rolo Rice Krispie Treats. These outrageously delicious, gooey, and chewy bars are a delightful, over-the-top upgrade from the classic childhood confection. This no-bake recipe is not only incredibly easy to assemble but even easier to devour, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
Imagine the crispy texture of puffed rice cereal, bound together by a luscious, buttery marshmallow mixture, then elevated with swirls of rich caramel and generous chunks of chocolate-covered Rolos. It's a symphony of textures and flavors that will transport you straight back to your happiest childhood memories, but with a sophisticated, irresistible twist.
Why These Caramel Rolo Rice Krispie Treats Are a Must-Make
There are countless reasons to whip up a batch of these extraordinary treats. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, these bars promise joy with minimal effort.
- A Dream for Caramel and Chocolate Lovers: If you find yourself reaching for anything with caramel or chocolate, then these Krispie Treats are about to become your new obsession. The combination of sweet, buttery caramel sauce woven into the marshmallow base, coupled with the chewy Rolo candies, creates an unparalleled depth of flavor. It’s the perfect marriage of two beloved indulgences in one bite.
- Marshmallow Skeptic Approved: For those who aren’t typically fond of marshmallows, don't let the base ingredient deter you. The addition of rich caramel sauce and chopped Rolos transforms the texture and flavor profile significantly. The marshmallows melt down to create a sticky, binding agent, but the dominant flavors become the caramel and chocolate, making them palatable even for the most discerning palates. In our household, I was once a marshmallow naysayer, but these treats won me over, along with my husband, kids, and even our dog!
- Effortless & No-Bake Perfection: Life is busy, and sometimes you need a delicious dessert that doesn't require hours in the kitchen or turning on the oven. These Caramel Rolo Rice Krispie Treats are the epitome of simplicity. They come together in minutes, making them ideal for last-minute gatherings, quick dessert cravings, or a fun activity with kids.
- A Wholesome Treat (Relatively!): While certainly a confection, Rice Krispie cereal is often fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. So, while we're not claiming these are a health food, they're a delightful option to pack in a lunch box or enjoy as a sweet pick-me-up without feeling entirely guilty. It’s a treat that offers a hint of nutritional value from the cereal, making it a slightly better choice than many other candy bars.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From school lunchboxes to holiday parties, these treats fit right in. That first week back to school can be stressful for both parents and kids. What better way to share some love and bring a smile to everyone's face than with something extra special like these homemade Caramel Rolo Rice Krispie Treats? They’re also fantastic for potlucks, birthday parties, or simply as an everyday snack.
Essential Ingredient Notes for Optimal Flavor
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, but selecting quality ingredients can make all the difference in achieving that perfect gooey, chewy texture and rich flavor.
- Butter: Always opt for unsalted butter. It forms the base of your gooey marshmallow mixture and contributes significantly to the rich flavor. Avoid using margarine, as it can lead to a rubbery texture due to its different fat and water content. Real butter provides the best taste and consistency.
- Rice Krispies Cereal: The star of the show! This recipe calls for 6 cups of the classic puffed rice cereal. Ensure your cereal is fresh for maximum crispiness. While classic Rice Krispies are recommended, you can experiment with other crispy rice cereals for a slight variation, but always check for freshness.
- Caramel or Butterscotch Sauce: This is where a lot of the decadent flavor comes from. Use a high-quality, thick caramel sauce. Look for brands that list butter and cream among their primary ingredients, as these will provide the richest, most authentic caramel flavor and a smoother texture. You can even try making your own homemade caramel sauce if you’re feeling ambitious!
- Rolos (Chocolate Coated Caramels): These iconic candies are the secret weapon for an extra burst of chocolate and chewy caramel. You will need an 8-ounce bag of mini Rolos, which should be frozen and then cut in half. Freezing them prevents them from melting completely into the warm marshmallow mixture, ensuring distinct chunks of chocolate and caramel in every bite.
- Marshmallows: Freshness is paramount here! You will need approximately 40 large marshmallows. Old, dry marshmallows will not melt properly, leading to a hard or clumpy texture. Always use fresh, soft marshmallows for the best, most pliable binding mixture. Mini marshmallows can also be used; typically, one 10-ounce bag of mini marshmallows is equivalent to 40 large marshmallows.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Caramel Rolo Rice Krispie Treats
Making these treats is incredibly straightforward, but following these steps carefully will ensure perfect results every time.
- Prepare Your Pan: First, line a 9x9-inch baking pan with non-stick foil or parchment paper, ensuring there's an overhang on the sides for easy removal. If using regular foil, butter or grease it generously to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for cleanly removing and cutting your finished treats.
- Melt the Marshmallows and Butter: In a large microwave-safe bowl (or a large saucepan over low heat on the stovetop), melt the butter. Once melted, add the marshmallows. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second increments, stirring well after each interval, until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat, as this can lead to hard treats. On the stovetop, stir constantly over medium-low heat until fully melted and creamy.
- Incorporate the Caramel Sauce: Once the marshmallows and butter are smoothly combined, stir in the 1/4 cup of caramel sauce until it is fully incorporated into the mixture. This adds a beautiful swirl of flavor and an extra layer of gooeyness.
- Combine Cereal and Rolos: In a separate, very large bowl, combine the 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal with the frozen, halved Rolo candies. Gently toss the Rolos with the cereal. This step helps to coat the sticky, cut surfaces of the Rolos with cereal, preventing them from clumping together too much and ensuring even distribution.
- Mix and Press: Pour the warm marshmallow and caramel mixture over the cereal and Rolo combination. Using a buttered spatula or spoon, gently mix until the cereal and Rolos are evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can crush the cereal. Once combined, transfer the mixture into your prepared pan. Using buttered hands or a piece of wax paper, gently but firmly press the mixture evenly into all corners of the pan. Avoid compacting it too tightly, as this can result in harder treats.
- Cool, Cut, and Enjoy: Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to an hour, or chill in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to speed up the setting process. Once firm, use a sharp knife (heated under hot water and dried for cleaner cuts) to slice into squares or bars. Then, it's time to dig in!
Expert Tips for Perfect Caramel Rolo Rice Krispie Treats
- PRO-Tip: Use Fresh Marshmallows: The quality of your marshmallows is critical. Fresh, soft marshmallows melt perfectly, creating a smooth, pliable, and gooey binder. Old, hardened marshmallows will not melt as uniformly and can lead to a tough or crumbly texture.
- Gentle Melting is Key: Whether you're using the stovetop or microwave, low and slow is the way to go. On the stovetop, melt butter first over medium-low heat, then add marshmallows and stir frequently until smooth. In the microwave, melt butter, then add marshmallows and heat in 30-second increments, stirring well after each, until just melted. Overheating the marshmallow mixture is a common culprit for hard Krispie Treats.
- PRO-Tip: Freeze Your Chocolate Add-ins: To prevent Rolos (or any other chocolate candy you might add) from melting into a messy puddle when stirred into the warm Krispie treat mixture, always freeze them beforehand. This ensures they maintain their shape and provide distinct bursts of flavor and texture.
- Prepare Your Pan Properly: Always grease your pan well or line it with non-stick foil or parchment paper. This simple step makes removing and cutting the treats incredibly easy and mess-free. Non-stick foil is particularly effective.
- Adjust Pan Size for Desired Thickness: For extra thick, hearty Rice Krispie Treats, consider using a slightly smaller pan than the recommended 9x9-inch. A 8x8-inch pan will yield thicker bars, while a 9x13-inch pan will produce thinner, crispier treats.
- PRO-Tip: Prevent Sticky Hands: To avoid a sticky situation when pressing the mixture into the pan, grease your hands lightly with butter or cooking spray. Alternatively, use a square of wax paper or parchment paper placed over the mixture, then press down with your hands. This keeps your hands clean and allows for even pressing.
- For Extra Gooeyness: If you prefer your Rice Krispie Treats extra soft and gooey, consider adding a few extra marshmallows to the melting mixture. This increases the binder-to-cereal ratio, resulting in a more indulgent, chewy texture.
- Chill for Cleaner Slices: While they can be eaten warm, chilling the treats for about 30 minutes to an hour before cutting yields cleaner, more defined squares. For the best results, use a sharp knife, and try heating the blade under hot running water (and drying it thoroughly) before each slice to cut through the sticky caramel and marshmallow with ease.
- Gifting and Sharing: These treats are perfect for sharing! When my son, Nick, was invited to a lake house for the weekend, I knew these hungry college boys would appreciate some homemade goodies. I whipped up a batch of these caramelly delights, and he reported they were a huge hit, drawing much praise. Though a wee bit sticky, wrapping each bar individually in plastic wrap or a small baggie makes them the perfect portable lunchbox snack, party favor, or thoughtful gift.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rice Krispie Treats
Hard Rice Krispie treats are typically caused by overheating the butter and marshmallow mixture. When marshmallows are cooked at too high a temperature or for too long, they can become tough once cooled. To avoid this, melt the butter first, then add marshmallows and melt them gently over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently, until just smooth.
A rubbery texture often results from using too much butter or, crucially, from substituting margarine for butter. Margarine has a different composition and can react differently with the marshmallows. Always use real butter for the best flavor and texture.
The most common reason for marshmallows not melting well is that they are old, dry, or dehydrated. Always ensure you are using a fresh bag of soft, pliable marshmallows. Check the expiration date and squeeze the bag; they should feel soft to the touch. Fresh marshmallows melt smoothly and easily.
Prevention is key! Make sure your pan is thoroughly greased or lined with non-stick foil or parchment paper. When handling the mixture, butter your hands or the rubber spatula you're using. Another excellent technique is to scrape the mixture into the prepared pan, then place a square of wax paper or parchment paper over the top. Use your hands to press down and spread the mixture evenly without directly touching the sticky treats.
For the best results and cleanest cuts, allow your Caramel Rolo Rice Krispie Treats to cool at room temperature for at least an hour. If you're in a hurry, you can place them in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes, but avoid chilling them for too long, as this can make them too firm.
Store these treats covered tightly at room temperature. They are best enjoyed within 2 days, but will remain delicious for up to a week. For longer storage, Rice Krispie Treats can be frozen. Wrap individual bars well in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 6 weeks. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
You May Also Love These Decadent Dessert Recipes
If you're a fan of the irresistible combination of crispy, gooey, and sweet, explore these other delightful recipes:
- Stuffed Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats
- Cookie Dough Rice Krispie Treats
- Cream Caramels will give you your ultimate caramel fix!
- Butterfinger Rice Krispie Treats
- Browse all my Best Dessert Recipes for more sweet inspiration!
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Caramel and Rolo Rice Krispie Treats
20 minutes
20 minutes
9 bars
The classic Rice Krispie Treats pushed over the top with chewy caramels and delightful Rolo candies!
Loved by 7 reviewers with a 5-star rating!
"You found a way to make rice krispie treats even more perfect! These are amazing!" - Wilhelmina
"This was a huge hit with my kids! I will definitely make it again!" - Toni
"If you love caramel, you'll adore these RKTs!" - Liz
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 40 large marshmallows (or one 10-ounce bag mini marshmallows)
- 1/4 cup quality caramel sauce
- 6 cups Rice Krispie cereal
- 8-ounce bag mini Rolos, cut in half and frozen
Instructions
- Line a 9 x 9-inch pan with non-stick foil or parchment paper (or use regular foil and butter/grease well). Set aside.
- Melt marshmallows and butter in a large microwave-safe bowl, starting with 45 seconds. Stir well, then heat and stir at 30-second intervals until marshmallows are completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, melt over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring constantly.
- Mix in the 1/4 cup caramel sauce until fully combined.
- In a separate large bowl, add the 6 cups of Rice Krispie cereal and the frozen Rolo halves. Toss the Rolos gently so that their sticky cut surfaces are covered with cereal.
- Pour the warm marshmallow mixture over the cereal and Rolo halves. Gently mix until the cereal and Rolos are evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Using a buttered spatula, buttered hands, or a piece of wax paper, gently press the warm mixture until it fills all corners of the pan and is level. Avoid pressing too firmly.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before cutting for cleaner slices.
- To pack for lunch boxes, wrap each square individually in plastic wrap. To serve for guests, you can drizzle with melted chocolate chips and top with an additional Rolo candy for an extra flourish.
Notes
Do not overheat the marshmallow and butter mixture, as this can lead to hard treats.
Store treats covered tightly at room temperature for 2 days for optimal freshness, though they will remain tasty for up to a week.
These treats can also be frozen for up to 6 weeks if wrapped well. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Recommended Products
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- Silicone Spatulas
- Nonstick Foil
- 9 x 9-inch Baking Pan
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
9
Serving Size:
1 bar
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 227
Total Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 185mg
Carbohydrates: 47g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 26g
Protein: 2g
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