Name: Marshmallow Crispy Cookies: A Chewy, Buttery Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 23 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Salted Butter (can substitute with melted butter); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (adds caramel notes); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (balances sweetness); 1 large Egg (should be at room temperature); 1 teaspoon Vanilla (vanilla paste can be used for stronger flavor); 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1/4 teaspoon Salt (balances flavor); 1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour (substitute with gluten-free flour if needed); 3 cups Rice Krispie Cereal (adds crunch); 1 cup Mini Marshmallows (can substitute with chocolate chips); flaked Salt (to sprinkle on top before baking)

The tantalizing aroma wafting through my kitchen last weekend transported me right back to blissful family gatherings, where crispy treats were a staple. As I melted the butter, watching it turn a beautiful shade of brown, I felt that familiar excitement bubble within. These Brown Butter Marshmallow Crispy Cookies are a homage to the classic Costco treat, but with a personal twist that elevates their charm. The best part? They come together quickly and require no chilling, making it easy to whip up a fresh batch whenever the craving strikes. Plus, they’re a perfect dessert for gatherings, guaranteed to have everyone reaching for seconds. Are you ready to transform your ordinary baking into something extraordinary? Let’s bring that nostalgia to life!

Why are Marshmallow Crispy Cookies irresistible?

Unforgettable flavor: The rich, nutty taste of brown butter harmonizes beautifully with the chewy marshmallows, creating a dessert that’s simply unforgettable.

Quick & easy: With no chilling required, these cookies come together in no time, perfect for spontaneous cravings or last-minute gatherings.

Versatile options: Feel free to swap the mini marshmallows for chocolate chips or nuts for a delightful twist, much like my favorite Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Crowd-pleasing appeal: Bring these to your next gathering and watch them disappear! Just like the popular treats from Costco, they’re sure to be a hit with friends and family.

Chewy with a crunch: The delightful combination of crispy rice and soft marshmallows gives every bite a satisfying texture, making these cookies stand out from traditional varieties.

Make-ahead bliss: Prepare the cookie dough in advance and store it in the freezer, so you can bake fresh cookies whenever the mood strikes!

Marshmallow Crispy Cookies Ingredients

These delightful cookies come together quickly and require no chill time, making them an easy treat for any occasion!

For the Cookie Dough

Salted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; you can substitute with melted butter if desired.
Brown Sugar – Infuses deep caramel notes and moisture for that chewy texture.
Granulated Sugar – Balances sweetness and helps achieve a crispy exterior.
Large Egg – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture; ensure it’s at room temperature for optimal mixing.
Vanilla – Enhances flavor; vanilla paste provides a more intense taste if you have it on hand.
Baking Soda – Creates a lovely rise, yielding a soft and chewy texture.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the overall flavor of the cookies.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free 1:1 flour for a gluten-free version.

For the Mixed Ingredients

Rice Krispie Cereal – Adds that signature crunch and is essential for the cookie’s character.
Mini Marshmallows – Imparts chewiness and sweetness; feel free to swap for chocolate chips if you prefer a chocolatey twist!
Flaked Salt – Sprinkled on top to enhance flavor just before baking—definitely elevates these marshmallow crispy cookies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marshmallow Crispy Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet
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. This will serve as the perfect surface for your marshmallow crispy cookies, ensuring they bake evenly and release easily once done.

Step 2: Brown the Butter
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt ½ cup of salted butter. Continue to cook the butter, stirring constantly, until it turns a rich golden brown and emits a nutty aroma, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning, then transfer the saucepan to cool for about 10 minutes in the fridge or freezer.

Step 3: Mix Sugars and Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled browned butter with ½ cup of brown sugar and ½ cup of granulated sugar. Beat together until the mixture is smooth, which should take around 30 seconds. Add in one large room-temperature egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract; mix until everything is well incorporated and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually add ½ teaspoon of baking soda, a pinch of salt, and 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour into the wet mixture. Gently mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix; this ensures your marshmallow crispy cookies will be soft and chewy rather than tough.

Step 5: Fold in Rice Krispies and Marshmallows
Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in 3 cups of Rice Krispie cereal and 1 cup of mini marshmallows into the dough. This will add the delightful crunch and chewiness that makes these cookies irresistible. Be sure to mix until evenly distributed, but don’t overwork the dough.

Step 6: Scoop and Shape the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, form large balls of dough and place them about 4-5 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. The size of each scoop will influence the texture and thickness of your marshmallow crispy cookies, so feel free to adjust according to your preference.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-13 minutes, or until the edges are light golden brown and the centers look slightly soft. Remember, the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so be careful not to overbake them for that chewy center.

Step 8: Add Finishing Touches
Once out of the oven, immediately sprinkle the warm cookies with flaked salt to enhance their flavor. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This will help your marshmallow crispy cookies achieve the perfect texture!

Expert Tips for Marshmallow Crispy Cookies

Brown the Butter Right: Ensure you continuously stir the butter while cooking to achieve a rich, nutty flavor without burning it for the best marshmallow crispy cookies.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining the dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to keep your cookies soft and chewy instead of tough.
Room Temperature Egg: Using a large egg at room temperature helps create a smoother batter and more uniform cookies.
Watch Bake Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; remove them when the edges are golden brown to maintain that perfect chewy center.
Adjust Scoop Size: A larger cookie scoop yields fewer, thicker cookies, while a smaller scoop results in more delicate, crispier cookies. Experiment to find your favorite texture!

Marshmallow Crispy Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these cookies and customize them to your heart’s content!

Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free 1:1 flour and ensure your rice krispies are gluten-free for a delightful alternative.
Chocolate Chip Twist: Replace mini marshmallows with chocolate chips for a classic flavor combination that will make your taste buds sing.
Nutty Delight: Fold in toasted nuts such as walnuts or pecans to add a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that elevates the cookies.
Cinnamon Spice: Incorporate a teaspoon of ground cinnamon into the dough for a lovely warm spice that pairs beautifully with the gooey marshmallows.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cooled cookies for an added layer of sweetness and an indulgent touch.
Rice Krispie Fun: Experiment with different flavored rice cereals, like Cocoa Rice Krispies, for a fun and unique twist on the original recipe.
S’mores Style: Add crushed graham crackers along with the marshmallows for a fun s’mores-inspired cookie!
Minty Fresh: Consider adding a few drops of peppermint extract to the dough for a refreshing twist, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Let your creativity unfold and enjoy tailoring these scrumptious cookies just the way you like! For more cookie inspiration, perhaps try these delightful Peppermint Kiss Cookies or indulge in some Thick Chewy Cookies.

How to Store and Freeze Marshmallow Crispy Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days to maintain freshness and prevent them from becoming stale.

Fridge: For extended freshness, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week, but this might affect their texture slightly.

Freezer: Freeze unbaked cookie dough for up to 2-3 months. Portion it out into balls and wrap tightly before placing in a freezer bag for easy baking later.

Reheating: To enjoy cookies fresh, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or briefly in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

What to Serve with Brown Butter Marshmallow Crispy Cookies

There’s something so comforting about creating a delightful feast around your freshly baked cookies, making every bite an experience to savor.

Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream melts beautifully alongside the warm cookies, enhancing the sweet flavors with its creaminess.
Milk: A classic pairing, a glass of cold milk washes down the sugary crunch perfectly, evoking childhood memories with every sip.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the cookies for an indulgent twist that will satisfy any sweet tooth. The rich chocolate pairs splendidly with the buttery notes of the cookies.
Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a cappuccino complements the sweetness while providing a delightful contrast, perfect for those cozy afternoons.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brings a refreshing balance to the richness of the cookies, adding vibrant flavors and textures that brighten up the meal.
Hot Chocolate: Enjoy a warm mug of hot chocolate, topped with whipped cream, to enhance the joy of this sweet treat, especially on a chilly day.
Caramel Sauce: For an even sweeter experience, serve these cookies topped with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce for that extra touch of indulgence.
Cheesecake Bites: These mini bites offer creamy richness, creating a delightful contrast to the crispy texture of the cookies.
Nutty Granola: Sprinkling some homemade granola adds a wholesome crunch and nutty flavor that beautifully complements the chewy marshmallows.

Make Ahead Options

These Brown Butter Marshmallow Crispy Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just scoop the dough into balls and place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you’re prepping even further ahead, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 2-3 months; simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven and follow the final steps—bake for 10-13 minutes, sprinkle with flaked salt, and enjoy fresh cookies anytime with minimal effort! This way, you’ll have delightful treats ready whenever a craving strikes!

Marshmallow Crispy Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of butter is best for these cookies?
I recommend using salted butter for its rich flavor and moisture. However, you can absolutely substitute with melted unsalted butter if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to adjust your salt accordingly!

How should I store my Marshmallow Crispy Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you want to keep them a little longer, refrigerating them in an airtight container will work for about a week, but this may slightly alter their texture.

Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze, scoop the unbaked cookie dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. Your dough can stay in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them straight into the oven—no thawing needed!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread too much, it’s often due to insufficient flour, or the dough being too warm. Make sure to measure your flour accurately, and if the dough feels overly soft, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before baking to help firm it up.

Can I substitute ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! To make gluten-free Marshmallow Crispy Cookies, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour. Also, ensure your Rice Krispies are gluten-free and check your marshmallows for hidden gluten. You can also use dairy-free butter and egg substitutes if needed!

How can I tell when my cookies are perfectly baked?
Keep an eye on the edges of your cookies while they bake. You’ll want to pull them out when the edges are light golden brown, while the centers remain slightly soft—they’ll continue to firm up as they cool. If they look set all the way through, they may be overbaked.