1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Start by buttering a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure that your treats won’t stick. This will also help you to easily lift them out once they’ve set.
2. Make the Rice Krispie Base: In a large saucepan, melt 5 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter has started to melt, add the marshmallows, stirring continuously. Keep stirring until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth. Remove the mixture from the heat, then stir in the vanilla extract to add that deliciously fragrant layer of flavor.

In a large bowl, add the Rice Krispie cereal. Pour the marshmallow mixture over the cereal and mix well, ensuring that every piece of cereal is coated in the gooey marshmallow goodness. Once thoroughly mixed, pour the Rice Krispie mixture into the prepared baking dish. Press it down gently to ensure an even layer. Set it aside to cool slightly.

3. Make the Salted Caramel Layer: In another saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, 5 tablespoons of butter, and the unwrapped caramels. Melt over medium heat, stirring constantly to ensure the caramels dissolve completely into the butter and milk. Once melted and smooth, remove from heat. Pour the caramel mixture directly over the Rice Krispie base, spreading it out evenly to cover the treats completely. To finish off the caramel layer, sprinkle a generous amount of sea salt on top. This salt adds a contrast to the sweetness, enhancing the flavor profile of the entire treat. Allow the caramel to cool for about 15 minutes.
4. Make the Chocolate Drizzle: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to bubble. Once it starts to simmer, remove from heat. Place the milk chocolate chips in a separate bowl and slowly pour the warm cream over them. Stir gently as you add the cream, allowing the chocolate to melt into the cream until it forms a smooth, thick sauce. If needed, continue to add the cream in small amounts until it reaches a drizzling consistency. Let the chocolate mixture cool for a few minutes, and then drizzle it generously over the caramel layer.
5. Add the Final Touches: After drizzling the chocolate, finish by sprinkling a little more sea salt over the top for that perfect balance of sweet and salty. The salt helps to cut through the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

Allow the Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats to cool completely before slicing into squares. These treats are best enjoyed when they’re slightly chilled, as the caramel and chocolate layers set perfectly, making each bite a chewy, gooey indulgence.