Description
Delightfully sweet and chewy Salted Caramel Apple Krispy Treats combine the classic crisp rice cereal and gooey marshmallows with rich homemade salted caramel and dried apple pieces for a perfect fall-inspired snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Salted Caramel:
- 1 Cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 Cup cold water
- 1/2 Cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 Tablespoons salted butter
- 1 Teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 Teaspoon vanilla extract
Krispy Treats:
- 4 Cups miniature marshmallows
- 4 Tablespoons butter
- 6 Cups rice krispies cereal
- 1 Cup dried apple pieces
- 1 Cup salted caramel (prepared from above)
Instructions
- Make the Salted Caramel: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar and cold water. Stir continuously until the mixture turns a medium to dark amber color, signaling the caramelization process.
- Add Butter: Add the salted butter to the caramel and stir well for 1-2 minutes until the butter is fully melted. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble up due to the temperature difference.
- Incorporate Cream: Slowly drizzle the heavy whipping cream into the caramel while stirring. Allow the caramel to boil gently for 2 minutes to create a smooth, rich sauce.
- Finish Caramel: Remove the saucepan from heat, then stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt. Let the caramel cool and thicken before using in the next step.
- Prepare Krispy Treat Base: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the miniature marshmallows along with 1 cup of the prepared salted caramel, stirring continuously until the marshmallows are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Remove the saucepan from heat, then fold in the rice krispies cereal and dried apple pieces. Stir thoroughly so all the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow and caramel mixture.
- Set and Serve: Pour the mixture into a prepared pan (lightly greased or lined with parchment paper) and press down firmly to form an even layer. Drizzle additional salted caramel on top as desired. Allow the treats to cool completely before cutting into squares for serving.
Notes
- When adding butter and cream to the caramel, expect bubbling; stir carefully to avoid splatters or burns.
- Use dried apple pieces for best texture; fresh apples would add too much moisture.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to help treats hold together well.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- To soften caramel drizzle for topping, gently warm before drizzling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: salted caramel, apple, krispy treats, rice krispies, marshmallow dessert, fall treats, homemade caramel, no bake dessert
