Scotcharoo Recipe: If you love sweet and chewy treats with a perfect balance of crunch, then Scotcheroos are for you! These no-bake bars combine peanut butter, chocolate, and butterscotch flavors with crispy rice cereal, making them an easy and irresistible dessert. Originally popularized in the Midwest, Scotcheroos have stood the test of time as a favorite homemade snack.
The best part? You don’t need an oven! In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of rich, chewy bars ready to enjoy. Let’s get started!
Ingredients Needed
Before you start, gather all the necessary ingredients:
- 6 cups crispy rice cereal (like Rice Krispies)
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
Substitutions and Variations:
- Corn syrup substitute: Honey or brown rice syrup
- Crunchier texture: Use chunky peanut butter
- Different flavors: Swap chocolate chips for white chocolate or dark chocolate
- Nut-free version: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter
Kitchen Tools Required
- Large saucepan
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Parchment paper (optional, for easy cleanup)
Step 1: Preparing the Base
Heat the Sugar and Corn Syrup:
- In a large saucepan, combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup light corn syrup over medium heat.
- Stir constantly until the mixture starts to bubble—DO NOT boil! Overheating will make the bars hard instead of chewy.
Add the Peanut Butter:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 cup peanut butter until smooth and fully combined.
- This helps create the chewy, sticky texture that holds the bars together.
Step 2: Mixing in the Cereal
Choose the Right Cereal:
- Classic Rice Krispies are the best option, but other puffed rice cereals work too.
Mix Well:
- Add 6 cups of crispy rice cereal to the peanut butter mixture.
- Stir quickly to coat all the cereal evenly before it starts to harden.
Step 3: Spreading the Mixture into the Pan
Prepare the Baking Pan:
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Evenly Spread the Mixture:
- Pour the cereal mixture into the pan and use a spatula to press it down firmly but gently.
- Avoid pressing too hard, as it can make the bars too dense.
Step 4: Making the Chocolate-Butterscotch Topping
Melt the Chocolate and Butterscotch Chips:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup chocolate chips and 1 cup butterscotch chips.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until fully melted and smooth.
Alternative Melting Method:
- Use a double boiler for a more controlled melting process to prevent burning.
Step 5: Spreading the Topping Over the Bars
Evenly Distribute the Topping:
- Pour the melted chocolate-butterscotch mixture over the pressed cereal base.
- Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
Let It Set:
- Allow the bars to sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours or place them in the fridge for faster setting.
Step 6: Cooling and Cutting the Bars
- Ensure Proper Cooling: Let the Scotcheroos fully set before cutting to avoid a sticky mess.
- Cut Even Squares: Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into even squares or rectangles.
Tips for Perfect Scotcheroos
- Don’t overheat the sugar mixture – it makes bars too hard.
- Press the cereal mixture gently – too much force can make the bars dense.
- Store properly to keep them chewy.
Serving and Storage Suggestions
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week.
- For longer storage, freeze in layers separated by parchment paper for up to 3 months.
FAQs about Scotcharoo Recipe
1. What are Scotcharoos made of?
Scotcharoos are no-bake dessert bars made with crispy rice cereal, peanut butter, sugar, and a delicious chocolate and butterscotch topping.
2. Why are my Scotcharoos too hard?
Overcooking the sugar mixture can make Scotcharoos too hard. To keep them soft and chewy, remove the sugar and corn syrup from heat as soon as it starts to bubble—don’t let it boil.
3. Can I make Scotcharoos without corn syrup?
Yes! You can substitute honey, maple syrup, or a simple sugar-water mixture to achieve a similar texture. However, the classic chewiness may vary slightly.
4. How do I store Scotcharoos?
Store Scotcharoos in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container with parchment paper between layers.
5. Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely! While the traditional recipe uses semi-sweet chocolate and butterscotch chips, you can swap in dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even peanut butter chips for a unique twist.
6. Why won’t my chocolate and butterscotch chips melt properly?
If the mixture is seizing or clumping, try melting the chocolate and butterscotch chips over low heat or using a microwave in 20-second increments, stirring in between. Adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil can also help smooth it out.
7. Are Scotcharoos gluten-free?
Most versions are gluten-free, but always check the labels on your crispy rice cereal and butterscotch chips, as some brands may contain gluten.
8. Can I make Scotcharoos healthier?
Yes! Try reducing the sugar, using natural peanut butter, or replacing the corn syrup with honey for a slightly healthier version.
Conclusion
Scotcheroos are a classic treat that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. With their chewy texture and rich, chocolatey topping, they’re perfect for any occasion. Try different variations to find your favorite version!
