Caramel Turtle Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Introduction

Caramel Turtle Rice Krispie Treats are a delicious twist on the classic favorite, combining crispy cereal, gooey caramel, rich chocolate, and crunchy pecans. This layered dessert is perfect for satisfying sweet cravings with its gooey texture and nutty flavor.

Ingredients

• 6 cups Rice Krispie Cereal
• 1 (14-16 oz) bag mini marshmallows, plus some reserved for topping decoration
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 14 oz caramels (about 45 small caramel squares)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or evaporated milk, divided
• 6 oz chocolate chips, plus more for topping decoration
• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted for more flavor (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare a 9×13-inch pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. In a large saucepan, melt the butter and mini marshmallows over medium-low heat, stirring constantly to prevent scorching, until smooth.
2. Step 2: Stir in the Rice Krispie cereal until well coated. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan. For thicker treats, use a slightly smaller pan.
3. Step 3: Melt the caramels, vanilla extract (if using), and 1/4 cup of heavy cream over a double boiler, stirring occasionally until smooth. This should take about 10 minutes. Pour the caramel evenly over the Rice Krispie layer. Refrigerate the pan for about 5 minutes to set.
4. Step 4: In the microwave, melt the chocolate chips with the remaining 1/4 cup of heavy cream for about 1 minute, stirring halfway through. Spread the melted chocolate over the caramel layer.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle toasted chopped pecans and additional chocolate chips over the chocolate. Drizzle any reserved caramel and chocolate over the top for decoration. Chill until fully set, then cut into squares and serve.

Tips & Variations

• Toast pecans before chopping to bring out their flavor and add a nice crunch.
• Use evaporated milk as a substitute for heavy cream for a lighter option.
• For extra gooey treats, add a little more butter when melting marshmallows.
• If you like nuts, walnuts make a great alternative to pecans.

Storage

Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat gently in the microwave to soften before serving if desired.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different cereals instead of Rice Krispies?

Yes, crispy cereals similar in texture to Rice Krispies work well, but keep in mind that buttery or flavored cereals may change the taste.

How do I prevent the caramel from hardening too much?

Make sure to melt the caramel with cream gently over a double boiler and pour it warm over the treats. Refrigerating briefly helps it set but keeps it pliable for drizzle and cutting.

Caramel Turtle Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 78 reviews

Caramel Turtle Rice Krispie Treats are a decadent twist on the classic crispy marshmallow treat, layered with gooey caramel, melted chocolate, and crunchy toasted pecans for a rich, indulgent dessert perfect for any occasion.

• Author: Joe
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 24 squares 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Rice Krispie Treats

• 6 cups Rice Krispie Cereal
• 1 14-16 oz. bag mini marshmallows (reserve some for topping decoration)
• 6 Tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Caramel Layer

• 14 oz. caramels (about 45 little caramel squares)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or evaporated milk (divided)

Chocolate Layer and Topping

• 6 oz chocolate chips plus more for topping decoration
• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted for more flavor (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the pan: Grease a 9×13 inch pan generously and optionally line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later. This sets the foundation for shaping the treats.
2. Melt marshmallows and butter: In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt 6 tablespoons of butter and the bag of mini marshmallows together. Stir constantly to prevent scorching until smooth and fully combined.
3. Mix in the cereal and press: Remove the pot from heat, stir in all 6 cups of Rice Krispie cereal until evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan to form a thick base layer.
4. Melt caramels: Using a double boiler, melt the 14 oz. of caramel squares with 1/4 cup of heavy cream and the optional vanilla extract. Stir frequently until the caramel mixture is completely smooth, which should take about 10 minutes. Pour this warm caramel evenly over the Rice Krispie base. Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 5 minutes to set the caramel layer.
5. Prepare chocolate topping: Melt 6 oz chocolate chips with the remaining 1/4 cup of heavy cream in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until fully smooth and melted. Spread this chocolate layer evenly over the set caramel layer.
6. Add toppings and chill: Sprinkle the toasted chopped pecans and extra chocolate chips generously over the chocolate layer. Optionally drizzle with any remaining caramel and chocolate. Chill the entire pan in the refrigerator until fully set, about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
7. Serve: Once set, cut into squares and serve. Keep refrigerated to maintain texture.

Notes

• For easier removal, line the pan with parchment paper extending over the edges.
• Use toasted pecans for deeper flavor and crunch.
• If you prefer a thicker treat, use a slightly smaller pan than 9×13.
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge to keep fresh up to 1 week.
• The caramel can also be melted carefully in the microwave if a double boiler is unavailable, using short bursts and stirring frequently.

Keywords: Caramel Turtle Rice Krispie Treats, Rice Krispie Treats, caramel dessert, chocolate treats, pecan dessert, no bake dessert