Scotcharoos Recipe: Scotcharoos are a classic no-bake dessert that combines crunchy, sweet, and creamy flavors into one irresistible treat. Made with crispy rice cereal, peanut butter, and a rich chocolate-butterscotch topping, these bars are quick and easy to prepare. Popular at bake sales, potlucks, and family gatherings, Scotcharoos have been winning hearts for decades.
Why Are Scotcharoos So Popular?
The secret to their popularity lies in their simplicity and flavor. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a dessert that’s rich, chewy, and loaded with chocolatey goodness. Plus, since Scotcharoos don’t require baking, they’re perfect for last-minute treats or hot summer days when you’d rather not turn on the oven.
Ingredients Needed for Scotcharoos
To get started, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 6 cups crispy rice cereal
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
These simple ingredients create layers of flavor and texture that make Scotcharoos unforgettable.
Step 1: Preparing the Base Layer
Melting Sugar and Corn Syrup
Start by combining the sugar and corn syrup in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble slightly. Be careful not to let it boil too long, as this can make the bars hard instead of chewy.
Tip: Remove the pan from heat as soon as bubbles form. This prevents the sugar from crystallizing, ensuring a smooth texture.
Mixing in Peanut Butter
Once the sugar and corn syrup mixture is warm and smooth, stir in the peanut butter. Mix until it’s completely melted and well-blended. The peanut butter adds richness and helps bind the cereal later.
Step 2: Creating the Crispy Foundation
Combining Rice Cereal with the Mixture
Pour the peanut butter mixture over the crispy rice cereal in a large mixing bowl. Stir gently but quickly to ensure the cereal is evenly coated without crushing it.
Pro Tip: Use a silicone spatula for easy mixing and less mess.
Pressing the Mixture into the Pan
Transfer the coated cereal mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and press it down firmly with the back of a spatula or a sheet of wax paper. This step ensures a compact base that won’t fall apart when sliced.
Step 3: Making the Chocolate and Butterscotch Topping
Melting Chocolate and Butterscotch Chips
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butterscotch chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and creamy.
Alternatively, you can melt them over a double boiler for more controlled heat.
Spreading the Topping Evenly
Once melted, pour the chocolate-butterscotch mixture over the cereal base. Spread it evenly using a spatula. Be sure to work quickly before the mixture begins to cool and set.
Step 4: Cooling and Serving
Letting the Scotcharoos Set Properly
Allow the Scotcharoos to cool at room temperature until the topping firms up. For faster results, place the dish in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes.
Caution: Avoid freezing the bars, as this can make the topping brittle and difficult to cut.
Cutting Into Squares for Serving
Once set, use a sharp knife to cut the Scotcharoos into squares or rectangles. For clean edges, warm the knife slightly under hot water and wipe it dry before slicing.
Tips for Perfect Scotcharoos
Avoiding Overheating the Sugar Mixture
One of the most common mistakes when making Scotcharoos is overheating the sugar and corn syrup mixture. If the sugar boils too long, it hardens as it cools, leading to tough, brittle bars instead of soft and chewy ones.
How to Fix It?
- Heat the sugar and corn syrup over medium heat and stir constantly.
- Remove it from heat as soon as bubbles appear.
- Quickly mix in the peanut butter to keep the consistency smooth.
Choosing the Right Peanut Butter
The type of peanut butter you choose can make or break your Scotcharoos. Creamy peanut butter works best, as it provides a smooth texture and binds the ingredients effectively.
Pro Tips:
- Avoid natural peanut butter because it tends to separate and may create oily or crumbly bars.
- If you prefer crunchy peanut butter, it can add extra texture, but make sure to test the consistency first.
Variations and Add-ons
Adding Nuts, Marshmallows, or Coconut
For those who love experimenting, Scotcharoos can be customized with various add-ons to create a unique twist:
- Nuts – Chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts can add crunch and flavor.
- Marshmallows – Stir in mini marshmallows for an extra chewy texture.
- Coconut Flakes – Sprinkle shredded coconut on top of the chocolate layer before it sets for added flavor and visual appeal.
Making Scotcharoos with White Chocolate
For a different flavor profile, swap out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate chips. Combine them with butterscotch chips, or add a drizzle of caramel sauce to create a luxurious variation.
Storage and Shelf Life
Storing Scotcharoos for Freshness
To keep Scotcharoos fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They typically stay fresh for up to 5 days if stored properly.
Tips for Storage:
- Layer the bars with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or humid areas, as the topping can melt or soften.
Freezing Scotcharoos for Longer Shelf Life
If you want to make a batch ahead of time, Scotcharoos freeze surprisingly well.
Steps to Freeze Scotcharoos:
- Cut the bars into squares.
- Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thawing Tip: Let them sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving to restore their soft texture.
FAQs about Scotcharoos Recipe
What are Scotcharoos?
Scotcharoos are a classic no-bake dessert bar made with crispy rice cereal, peanut butter, and a sweet, chocolate-butterscotch topping. They are quick to prepare and perfect for parties, potlucks, or satisfying a sweet tooth.
How do you make Scotcharoos?
To make Scotcharoos, melt sugar and corn syrup in a saucepan, then stir in peanut butter. Mix with crispy rice cereal and press into a pan. Melt chocolate and butterscotch chips together and spread the mixture over the top. Allow it to cool and set before slicing into bars.
Can I make Scotcharoos without corn syrup?
Yes, you can substitute honey or maple syrup for corn syrup, although the texture may be slightly different. These alternatives can make the bars slightly softer but still delicious.
How long do Scotcharoos last?
Scotcharoos can last up to 5 days at room temperature in an airtight container. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can Scotcharoos be made gluten-free?
Yes, you can make Scotcharoos gluten-free by using certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal and double-checking that all other ingredients, such as chocolate chips and butterscotch chips, are gluten-free.
Why are my Scotcharoos hard?
If your Scotcharoos turn out too hard, you may have overcooked the sugar and corn syrup mixture. To keep them soft and chewy, remove the syrup from heat as soon as it starts to boil and stir in the peanut butter immediately.
Can I use different toppings?
Absolutely! While chocolate and butterscotch are traditional toppings, you can experiment with white chocolate, dark chocolate, or even add sprinkles, nuts, or caramel drizzle for variety.
Are Scotcharoos freezer-friendly?
Yes, Scotcharoos freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. Thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Conclusion
Scotcharoos are the perfect no-bake dessert for anyone who loves rich, chewy, and chocolatey treats. With just six ingredients and a few easy steps, you can whip up these crowd-pleasers in no time. Whether you’re making them for a party, bake sale, or just as a sweet snack at home, Scotcharoos never disappoint.
The best part? They’re endlessly customizable, so you can put your own spin on the recipe. From adding nuts and marshmallows to experimenting with white chocolate, there’s no limit to what you can create.
Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see why Scotcharoos have remained a timeless favorite for generations.
