Crack Rice Krispies Recipe

Introduction

Crack Rice Krispies are an irresistible treat that combines gooey caramel, marshmallows, and crispy cereal for the ultimate sweet snack. This layered dessert is easy to make and perfect for sharing at any gathering.

Ingredients

• 14 oz KRAFT Caramels (unwrapped)
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup butter
• 10 cups Rice Krispies, divided
• 10 cups mini marshmallows, divided
• 12 tablespoons butter, divided

Instructions

1. Step 1: Make the caramel center by placing caramels, sweetened condensed milk, and 1/2 cup butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 3 minutes until melted and smooth.
2. Step 2: In another bowl, melt 6 tablespoons butter with 4 cups mini marshmallows in the microwave for 1 minute. Stir until smooth.
3. Step 3: Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over 5 cups of Rice Krispies. Stir well to coat the cereal.
4. Step 4: Press this mixture into a greased 9×13-inch pan to form the bottom layer.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle 2 cups of mini marshmallows evenly over the cereal layer, then carefully pour the caramel mixture on top. Refrigerate until set.
6. Step 6: Once chilled and firm, repeat Step 2 by melting 6 tablespoons butter with the remaining 4 cups of mini marshmallows. Stir until smooth.
7. Step 7: Stir the melted marshmallows into the remaining 5 cups of Rice Krispies and press this mixture over the set caramel layer to create the top layer.
8. Step 8: Chill the assembled dessert until firm before cutting into 12-15 servings.

Tips & Variations

• Use a greased spatula or wax paper to press the Rice Krispie layers firmly without sticking.
• For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel layer before adding the top Rice Krispies layer.
• Substitute classic Rice Krispies with gluten-free crispy rice cereal if needed.

Storage

Store Crack Rice Krispies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best chewy texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without a microwave?

Yes, you can melt the caramels, butter, and marshmallows over low heat in a saucepan, stirring constantly until smooth.

Why do the Rice Krispies layers need to be pressed firmly?

Pressing the layers firmly ensures they hold together well and creates a sturdy bar that won’t crumble when cut or served.

Crack Rice Krispies Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 101 reviews

Crack Rice Krispies is a decadent layered treat featuring a gooey caramel center sandwiched between two crispy marshmallow and Rice Krispie cereal layers. This no-bake dessert combines the classic flavors of caramel and marshmallows for an irresistibly sweet and crunchy snack perfect for parties or anytime indulgence.

• Author: Daniel
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes (microwaving in increments)
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 12–15 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Caramel Center

• 14 oz KRAFT Caramels, unwrapped
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup butter

Rice Krispie Layers

• 10 cups Rice Krispies cereal, divided
• 10 cups mini marshmallows, divided
• 12 Tbsp butter, divided

Instructions

1. Make the Caramel Center: Place the 14 oz of unwrapped caramels, 14 oz of sweetened condensed milk, and 1/2 cup butter into a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 3 minutes, then stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Prepare the Bottom Rice Krispie Layer: In another microwave-safe bowl, melt 6 tablespoons of butter with 4 cups of mini marshmallows for 1 minute. Stir well until smooth. Pour this marshmallow mixture over 5 cups of Rice Krispies cereal and stir until the cereal is coated evenly.
3. Press the Bottom Layer: Transfer the coated cereal mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, pressing it down firmly and evenly.
4. Add Marshmallows and Caramel Layer: Sprinkle 2 cups of mini marshmallows evenly on top of the pressed cereal layer. Carefully pour the prepared caramel mixture over the marshmallows, spreading gently to cover them. Refrigerate the pan to allow the caramel layer to set completely.
5. Prepare the Top Rice Krispie Layer: After the caramel has chilled and set, repeat the process of melting 6 tablespoons butter with the remaining 4 cups of mini marshmallows for 1 minute. Stir until smooth and combine this mixture with the remaining 5 cups of Rice Krispies cereal.
6. Assemble the Final Layer: Press this second cereal and marshmallow mixture firmly over the chilled caramel layer, ensuring a solid, even top.
7. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the entire dish until firm, approximately 1-2 hours. Once set, cut into squares to yield 12-15 servings and enjoy.

Notes

• Use a greased pan or line with parchment paper for easier removal of the bars.
• Microwave times may vary; adjust as needed to avoid burning the butter or marshmallows.
• Press cereal mixtures firmly to avoid crumbly bars.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Let bars come to room temperature briefly before eating for softer texture if desired.

Keywords: Rice Krispies Treats, Caramel Dessert, Marshmallow Bars, No Bake Dessert, Snack Bars