Caramel Turtle Rice Krispies Treats Recipe
Indulge in these decadent Caramel Turtle Rice Krispies Treats, featuring classic crispy marshmallow cereal bars topped with a luscious layer of rich caramel, melted semi-sweet chocolate, and crunchy chopped pecans. This easy no-bake dessert combines the nostalgic texture of Rice Krispies treats with the irresistible flavors of caramel turtles for a perfect sweet treat.
- Author: Lisa
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 to 15 squares 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Rice Krispies Treats
- 7 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 16 oz mini marshmallows (about 8 cups)
- 4 tbsp butter
Caramel
- 3/4 lb store-bought individual caramels
- 2 tbsp water
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Chocolate
- 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate
Topping
- Prepare the pan and cereal: Spray a 9″ x 13″ casserole dish or cake pan with non-stick spray and set aside. Measure 7 cups of Rice Krispies cereal into a large bowl and set aside.
- Melt marshmallows and butter: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of butter and 16 oz mini marshmallows. Microwave for about 3 minutes until marshmallows are puffy and mostly melted. Carefully stir to fully combine the butter and melted marshmallows. Alternatively, melt them together in a large pot on the stove if preferred.
- Mix with cereal: Quickly pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the Rice Krispies cereal. Use a spatula sprayed with non-stick spray to gently fold and combine all ingredients evenly. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and use the spatula to press it down evenly and flatten the surface. Allow to cool for about 20 minutes.
- Melt the caramel: Using a double boiler, melt 3/4 lb caramels with 2 tablespoons water and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir occasionally; it will take about 10 minutes to melt completely into a smooth caramel sauce.
- Caramel layer: Pour most of the melted caramel evenly over the cooled Rice Krispies treats, reserving a small amount in the double boiler for decoration. Spread to cover the surface evenly. Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 5 minutes to set the caramel slightly.
- Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth and fully melted.
- Chocolate layer: Remove the caramel-topped treats from the refrigerator and spread the melted chocolate evenly over the caramel layer.
- Add pecan topping: Sprinkle 3/4 cup chopped pecans evenly over the melted chocolate layer. Rewarm the reserved caramel and drizzle it over the pecans for extra lusciousness.
- Set and serve: Place the pan back in the refrigerator or leave it on the counter if cool enough, allowing the chocolate to fully set. Once firm, cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- You can melt marshmallows and butter on the stovetop instead of the microwave if preferred.
- Use a spatula sprayed with non-stick spray to prevent sticking when mixing the marshmallow and cereal.
- Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for longer freshness.
- For an extra chocolatey twist, use dark or milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet.
- Be careful when melting chocolate and caramel to avoid overheating and burning.
Keywords: Rice Krispies treats, caramel turtle treats, no bake dessert, marshmallow cereal bars, chocolate pecan caramel treats