Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with our irresistible Scotcheroos recipe! These gooey, crunchy treats are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to bake sales. Made with just a few simple ingredients, including Rice Krispies cereal, creamy peanut butter, and decadent chocolate and butterscotch chips, Scotcheroos are sure to become a new favorite in your dessert rotation. Join us as we explore the ingredients, instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this beloved classic.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 ½ cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pan:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Set aside.
- Mix the Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Rice Krispies cereal and creamy peanut butter. Stir until well combined.
- Make the Syrup Mixture:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and corn syrup over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Once boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat and pour the hot syrup mixture over the Rice Krispies and peanut butter. Stir until the cereal is evenly coated.
- Press into Pan:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press it evenly into the bottom using a spatula or the back of a spoon. Ensure the mixture is tightly packed.
- Melt the Chocolate and Butterscotch Chips:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butterscotch chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.
- Spread Over Bars:
- Pour the melted chocolate and butterscotch mixture over the top of the pressed cereal mixture in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Chill and Set:
- Place the baking dish in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours, or until the Scotcheroos are firm and set.
- Slice and Serve:
- Once set, remove the Scotcheroos from the refrigerator and slice into bars or squares using a sharp knife. Serve and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Crunch: For extra crunch and texture, try adding chopped nuts such as peanuts, almonds, or pecans to the cereal mixture before pressing it into the pan.
- Customize Toppings: Get creative with your toppings by using different types of chocolate chips or drizzling melted chocolate over the top for added flair.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: While traditional Scotcheroos are not keto-friendly due to the high sugar content, you can create a keto-friendly version by using sugar-free chocolate chips, a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia, and a low-carb syrup substitute such as sugar-free maple syrup or a monk fruit syrup.
- Low-Carb Version: Follow the keto substitutions mentioned above and ensure that all other ingredients used are low in carbohydrates. Adjust the portion sizes of the sweeteners and chocolate chips to fit your low-carb macros.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of cereal for this recipe? A: While Rice Krispies cereal is traditional for Scotcheroos, you can experiment with different types of cereal such as Corn Flakes or crispy rice cereal for a unique twist.
Q: How should I store Scotcheroos? A: Store Scotcheroos in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If the weather is warm, you may want to store them in the refrigerator to prevent the chocolate from melting.
Q: Can I freeze Scotcheroos? A: Yes, Scotcheroos can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I make Scotcheroos without peanut butter? A: Peanut butter is a key ingredient in Scotcheroos, but if you have a peanut allergy or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a similar result
Indulge in the irresistible sweetness and crunch of our Scotcheroos recipe, a classic treat that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, Scotcheroos are a fun and delicious dessert option for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them as an afternoon snack or a sweet ending to a meal, these gooey, chocolatey bars are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up a batch of these irresistible Scotcheroos today!
