Introduction

Caramel Turtle Rice Krispies Treats are a delicious twist on the classic snack, combining the chewy texture of marshmallows with rich caramel, chocolate, and crunchy pecans. These treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing at parties.

A stack of six square rice crispy treats arranged in a small pyramid on a white plate. Each treat consists of one thick light beige layer of crispy rice cereal, topped with a thin dark brown chocolate layer and drizzled with a smooth medium brown caramel layer. The top is sprinkled with roughly chopped nuts in light tan and dark brown shades. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

7 cups Rice Krispies cereal
16 oz mini marshmallows (about 8 cups)
4 tbsp butter
3/4 lb store-bought individual caramels
2 tbsp water
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
6 oz semi-sweet chocolate
3/4 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

Step 1: Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish or cake pan with non-stick spray and set aside. Measure the Rice Krispies cereal into a large bowl.
Step 2: In a large microwave-safe bowl, heat the butter and mini marshmallows together for about 3 minutes. The marshmallows will expand, so use a big enough bowl. When puffy and mostly melted, carefully remove and stir to fully combine and melt the marshmallows and butter.
Step 3: Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the Rice Krispies cereal. Using a spatula sprayed with non-stick spray, quickly mix until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared dish and flatten as needed. Let cool for about 20 minutes.
Step 4: In the top of a double boiler, melt the caramels with water and vanilla extract over gentle heat, stirring occasionally until smooth (about 10 minutes). Reserve a small amount of caramel for later.
Step 5: Pour the melted caramel evenly over the Rice Krispies treats. Refrigerate the pan for about 5 minutes to set the caramel layer.
Step 6: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Remove the treats from the fridge and spread the melted chocolate evenly over the caramel layer.
Step 7: Sprinkle chopped pecans on top of the chocolate. Warm the reserved caramel and drizzle it over the pecans for a finishing touch.
Step 8: Chill the treats in the fridge or leave on the counter in cool weather until the chocolate sets. Cut into squares and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

Use salted pecans to add a nice contrast to the sweetness.
For a richer chocolate flavor, substitute semi-sweet with dark chocolate.
If you don’t have a double boiler, melt caramels gently in the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently.
Try adding a pinch of sea salt on top for a salted caramel twist.

Storage

Store these treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. If refrigerated, allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Reheating is not necessary.

How to Serve

The image shows three rectangular dessert bars placed side by side on a white marbled surface. Each bar has three layers: the bottom layer is thick and light tan with a crunchy, puffed rice texture, the middle layer is a thin, smooth, rich caramel color, and the top layer is a mix of dark brown chocolate and a generous sprinkle of chopped pecans, giving a rough and chunky texture. The caramel and chocolate are swirled together slightly on top, creating a glossy finish with the nuts adding a natural, uneven look. 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 marshmallows?

Yes, you can use regular marshmallows. Just measure the equivalent volume or weight, and melt using the same method.

How do I prevent the caramel from hardening too much?

Make sure to remove the caramel from heat once fully melted and pour it over the treats while still warm. Refrigerating briefly sets the caramel without making it too hard.