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- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal - 10 oz mini marshmallows - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - 1/2 cup apple cider - 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade) - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 2 medium tart apples (such as Granny Smith), diced - 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional) - Flaky sea salt for garnish

Caramel Apple Rice Krispie Treats

Discover the delightful fusion of flavors with our Caramel Apple Rice Krispie Treats! This easy recipe transforms the classic dessert into a scrumptious experience, combining crispy cereal with gooey marshmallows, rich caramel, and tart apples. Perfect for fall gatherings, these treats bring nostalgia and sweetness to any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dessert that’s sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy a taste of autumn in every bite!
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Ingredients
  

4 cups Rice Krispies cereal

1 cup mini marshmallows

½ cup unsalted butter

1 cup fresh apple cider (to be reduced to ½ cup)

1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ cup diced tart apples (such as Granny Smith)

½ cup chopped nuts (optional, such as walnuts or pecans)

Additional caramel sauce for drizzling

Flaky sea salt, for garnish

Instructions
 

Reduce the Apple Cider: In a small saucepan, pour in the apple cider and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat and allow it to simmer until the liquid thickens and reduces to about ½ cup, which will take approximately 10-15 minutes. Once achieved, remove from the heat and let it cool slightly.

    Prepare the Baking Dish: Line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring there is some overhang on the sides to facilitate easy removal later. Lightly grease the parchment paper with unsalted butter or cooking spray for easy release.

      Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once fully melted, add the mini marshmallows. Stir continuously until the marshmallows completely melt and the mixture is smooth and creamy.

        Combine with Cereal: Remove the saucepan from heat. Immediately stir in the reduced apple cider, caramel sauce, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Mix well until fully combined. Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until every piece is coated in the mixture.

          Incorporate Apples and Nuts: Add the diced apples and optional chopped nuts to the mixture. Fold carefully to ensure even distribution without crushing the Rice Krispies.

            Transfer to the Baking Dish: Pour the cereal mixture into the prepared baking dish. Using a buttered spatula or your lightly greased hands, press the mixture evenly into the pan. Ensure it’s compact but not packed too tightly.

              Allow to Set: Let the Rice Krispie treats cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or until they are fully set and firm to the touch.

                Drizzle with Caramel: Once set, lift the treats out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Drizzle extra caramel sauce generously over the top and finish with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a delightful contrast of flavors.

                  Cut and Serve: Slice the treats into squares or rectangles with a sharp knife. For an extra special presentation, consider garnishing with thin slices of fresh apple or a sprinkle of additional nuts.

                    Prep Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 12-16

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve the treats on a decorative platter, enhancing with a few whole apples alongside for a charming touch.