I usually think of Rice Krispie treats when dealing with a large group of kids; but this recipe with brown butter and coarse sea salt transforms the kid-friendly favorite into a true grown-up treat.

I’ve had this recipe tucked away for a long time and finally gave it a try. The results are absolutely delicious. Still simple to make, but by browning the butter you get a rich, nutty and unique flavor to really love. You could make these grown-up treats to serve at a luncheon or wrap them up cute for an easy, but fun take-home at your next party or baby shower.

Salted Brown Butter Rice Krispie Bars

Ingredients

4 ounces (1/4 pound or 1 stick) unsalted butter, plus extra for the pan

1 10-ounce bag marshmallows

Heaping 1/4 teaspoon coarse sea salt

6 cups Rice Krispies cereal (about half a 12-ounce box)

Instructions

Butter (or coat with non-stick spray) an 8-inch square cake pan

In a large pot, melt butter over medium-low heat. It will melt, then foam,  then turn clear golden and finally start to turn brown and smell nutty. Stir frequently, scraping up any bits from the bottom as you do.   Don’t take your eyes off the pot as while you may be impatient for it to start browning, the period between the time the butter begins to take on color and the point where it burns is often less than a minute.

As soon as the butter takes on a nutty color, turn the heat off and stir in the marshmallows. The residual heat from the melted butter should be enough to melt them, but if it is not, turn it back on low until the marshmallows are
smooth.

Remove the pot from the stove and stir in the cereal. Quickly spread and press lightly into prepared pan. Sprinkle with salt. Cool and enjoy!

Recipe adapted slightly from Smitten Kitchen