As I strolled through the aisles of my local grocery store, the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cookies wafted by, drawing me in like a magnet. Inspired by those delightful treats, I couldn’t resist recreating Brown Butter Marshmallow Crispy Cookies, a delicious Costco copycat that brings the nostalgia of classic snacks right into my kitchen. These cookies boast a toasty, caramel-like richness from the brown butter and the perfect crunch from Rice Krispies, making them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, there’s no need to chill the dough, allowing for quick prep that fits perfectly into even the busiest of days. Are you ready to indulge in a homemade twist on your favorite treat? Let’s dive into this cookie adventure!
Why are these cookies so irresistible?
Nostalgic flavors come alive in every bite, reminding you of favorite childhood treats. Quick and Easy to make, there’s no chilling required, perfect for satisfying those sudden sweet cravings. Versatile in nature, feel free to swap in chocolate chips for a delightful twist or reduce the marshmallows for a crunchier cookie. Crowd-Pleaser status is practically guaranteed, making them an instant hit at gatherings or family fun nights. If you love creative cookies, check out my Raspberry Cookies Sweet or Chocolate Blossom Cookies for more delicious inspiration!
Marshmallow Crispy Cookies Ingredients
• Here’s what you need to create these delightful Marshmallow Crispy Cookies!
For the Cookies
- Salted Butter – imparts a rich flavor; for dairy-free, use vegan butter.
- Brown Sugar – gives a deep caramel taste, enhancing the overall sweetness.
- Granulated Sugar – balances the flavors and contributes to the cookie’s crispness.
- Egg – binds the ingredients; ensure it’s at room temperature for perfect mixing.
- Vanilla Extract – adds a warm, sweet undertone; try vanilla paste for richer flavor.
- Baking Soda – acts as a leavening agent for a delightful puffiness in the cookies.
- Salt – enhances all flavors and curbs the sweetness.
- All-Purpose Flour – provides structure and a chewy texture; replace with gluten-free flour as needed.
- Rice Krispie Cereal – adds a satisfying crunch, choose gluten-free if necessary.
- Mini Marshmallows – delivers gooey sweetness; adjust the amount based on your preference.
- Flaked Salt – for topping, it contrasts the sweetness with a savory hint.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brown Butter Marshmallow Crispy Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This will prepare your space for the delicious Brown Butter Marshmallow Crispy Cookies that are about to fill your kitchen with warmth and sweetness.
Step 2: Brown the Butter
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the salted butter, stirring frequently. Watch closely as it transforms from melted to golden brown, developing a nutty fragrance—this should take about 5 minutes. Once the butter is browned, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly, allowing those rich flavors to deepen before mixing.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown butter with both brown sugar and granulated sugar. Blend the mixture well until fluffy, about 2 minutes. Next, crack in the room temperature egg and add the vanilla extract. Beat everything together until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated; the sweetness will be deliciously alluring!
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. This step is crucial for ensuring your Brown Butter Marshmallow Crispy Cookies have a lovely structure without overworking the dough.
Step 5: Fold in the Textures
Gently fold in the Rice Krispies and mini marshmallows to the dough with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix, as you want those delightful marshmallows to remain intact for that gooey, chewy texture in every bite. The combination of crunchy and soft will make these cookies irresistibly good!
Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop, portion out large balls of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving adequate space between each dough ball to allow for spreading during baking. This makes sure your Brown Butter Marshmallow Crispy Cookies will bake evenly, resulting in perfectly shaped treats that look as good as they taste.
Step 7: Bake
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 10-13 minutes. Keep a close eye on them—the edges should turn light golden brown while the centers remain slightly soft. Once done, remove them from the oven and sprinkle flaked salt on top for a delightful contrast, enhancing the flavor just as they start to cool.
What to Serve with Brown Butter Marshmallow Crispy Cookies
Imagine a cozy kitchen filled with the sweet scent of freshly baked cookies, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying solo!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness melts beautifully over warm cookies, creating a delightful contrast of textures.
- Chocolate Milk: Creamy and indulgent, this classic drink pairs perfectly with the sweet, buttery flavors of the cookies.
- Hot Chocolate: Cozy and comforting, a warm cup of hot chocolate enhances the nostalgic feeling of these delightful treats.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing tartness that balances the sweetness of the cookies well.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling a bit of this over each cookie takes them from delicious to decadently divine.
- Coffee: The rich, bold flavors of coffee complement the sweetness of the cookies, perfect for an afternoon treat.
- Toasted Nuts: Chopped toasted almonds or pecans add a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft, chewy cookies.
- Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai enhance the buttery caramel flavor of the cookies, making for a comforting pairing.
- Fruit Salad: A light, fruity medley brings freshness to the table, balancing the sweetness of the Marshmallow Crispy Cookies.
Expert Tips for Marshmallow Crispy Cookies
• Brown the Butter Perfectly: Watch the butter closely as it browns; stir often to prevent burning and ensure a rich, nutty flavor.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method for your flour to avoid dense cookies. Adding too much flour can lead to dryness!
• Don’t Overmix: When folding in Rice Krispies and mini marshmallows, mix gently to keep a delightful chewy texture in the finished Marshmallow Crispy Cookies.
• Check Baking Time: Start checking cookies at 10 minutes; aim for light golden edges and soft centers to achieve the perfect balance of crisp and chewy.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to swap in chocolate chips or nuts. Just remember, reducing marshmallows can make for a crunchier cookie.
Marshmallow Crispy Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Marshmallow Crispy Cookies and tailor them to your taste buds—the possibilities are endless!
Chocolate Chip: Swap mini marshmallows for chocolate chips to indulge in a rich, chocolatey treat. A heavenly combination that sure to please any chocoholic!
Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and depth of flavor, making each bite even more satisfying.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make these cookies gluten-free without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Fruity Twist: Toss in dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots to introduce a sweet and chewy fruity element to the mix—perfect for a refreshing change!
Reduced Marshmallows: Enjoy a crunchier cookie by reducing the number of mini marshmallows. This will also highlight the crispy element that Rice Krispies bring to the recipe.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry mixture for a warm, spiced aroma that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies.
Salted Caramel Drizzle: Finish your cookies with a drizzle of salted caramel sauce for a luxurious treat that adds an extra layer of gooeyness—pure decadence!
Mix and Match: Combine ½ cup of chocolate chips and mini marshmallows for a deliciously gooey and chocolaty surprise hidden within each cookie.
Take a moment to explore different combinations, and if you’re feeling adventurous, consider pairing your cookies with treats like Raspberry Sugar Cookies or enjoy them alongside my Pistachio Cream Cookies. Happy baking!
How to Store and Freeze Brown Butter Marshmallow Crispy Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and chewy, ready to be enjoyed anytime!
Fridge: If you want longer freshness, you can keep them in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: Freeze cookies in a single layer in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy warm.
Cookie Dough Balls: For fresh cookies anytime, freeze cookie dough balls individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a container. Bake straight from the freezer—just add a minute or two to the baking time!
Make Ahead Options
These Brown Butter Marshmallow Crispy Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade treats any time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their delightful texture, scoop the dough into balls before chilling; this way, they’re ready to bake straight from the fridge. Alternatively, if you have extra dough, freeze the dough balls for up to 3 months, and bake them fresh right from the freezer, adding an additional 1-2 minutes to the baking time. When you’re ready to satisfy your sweet tooth, simply follow the baking instructions, and you’ll achieve those warm, chewy cookies just as delicious as if made fresh!
Brown Butter Marshmallow Crispy Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, pick salted butter that’s soft but still cool; this will create the perfect base for browning. For the eggs, use ones that are at room temperature to help with smoother mixing. As for marshmallows, choose fresh mini marshmallows without any discoloration or hard spots for that signature gooeyness.
How should I store leftover cookies, and how long will they stay fresh?
To keep your Brown Butter Marshmallow Crispy Cookies deliciously fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember to allow them to come back to room temperature before indulging for the best experience!
Can I freeze the cookies, and if so, how?
Yes, freezing is a great option! Freeze your cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to airtight containers or freezer bags, where they can stay fresh for up to 2-3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave them for about 10-15 seconds for that freshly-baked warmth. If you’re freezing the cookie dough, scoop and freeze individual dough balls, then bake them straight from the freezer, adding just a minute or two to the baking time.
What if my cookies come out too hard or flat? Is there a way to troubleshoot?
Very much! If your cookies are too hard, it may be due to overbaking or adding too much flour. Ensure you measure flour accurately—using the spoon-and-level method is best. If they’re spreading too thin, try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps retain their shape, resulting in perfect, chewy Brown Butter Marshmallow Crispy Cookies.
Are there any dietary considerations with these cookies?
Of course! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For those with dairy allergies, swapping salted butter for a dairy-free or vegan alternative will keep the same rich flavor! Always check your ingredient labels, especially for marshmallows, as they can sometimes contain allergens.
Can I adjust the number of marshmallows in the recipe?
Yes! The great thing about these Brown Butter Marshmallow Crispy Cookies is their versatility. Feel free to reduce the amount of mini marshmallows if you prefer a crunchier texture. You can also mix in chocolate chips for a delightful combination, keeping the marshmallows’ chewy goodness with every scrumptious bite.
Brown Butter Marshmallow Crispy Cookies with a Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Melt the salted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until it turns golden brown.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar. Blend until fluffy, then beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt in another bowl. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the Rice Krispies and mini marshmallows with a spatula.
- Portion out large balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space for spreading.
- Bake for 10-13 minutes until the edges are light golden brown and centers are slightly soft. Sprinkle flaked salt on top after removing from oven.