Scotcheroos are the perfect no-bake treat that combines the flavors of peanut butter, chocolate, and butterscotch in a delightful, crunchy bar. Whether you’re preparing for a party, looking for an easy dessert, or simply craving something sweet, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. This recipe is straightforward and only requires a few ingredients, making it a quick and convenient option for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal: Provides the crispy texture that is a hallmark of Scotcheroos.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: Adds a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the other ingredients.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the mixture and helps bind the cereal together.
- 1 cup corn syrup: Acts as a sweetener and binder, ensuring that the bars hold their shape.
- 1 ½ cups chocolate chips: Melts into a smooth, creamy layer that tops the bars.
- 1 cup butterscotch chips: Adds a distinct butterscotch flavor that complements the chocolate and peanut butter.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pan:
- Start by lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This will make it easier to remove the Scotcheroos once they’ve set.
- Melt the Peanut Butter Mixture:
- In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar has dissolved.
- Be careful not to let the mixture boil, as this can cause the sugar to crystallize and make the bars too hard.
- Once the sugar has dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the creamy peanut butter until smooth and fully combined.
- Mix in the Rice Krispies:
- Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the peanut butter mixture.
- Stir until the cereal is evenly coated with the peanut butter mixture. The goal is to ensure that every piece of cereal is covered, so the bars hold together well.
- Press into the Pan:
- Pour the cereal mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Using a spatula or your hands, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan.
- Make sure the mixture is packed tightly to create a solid base for the chocolate and butterscotch topping.
- Melt the Chocolate and Butterscotch Chips:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butterscotch chips.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chips are fully melted and smooth.
- Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chocolate to seize.
- Spread the Topping:
- Pour the melted chocolate and butterscotch mixture over the cereal base.
- Use a spatula to spread the topping evenly across the surface.
- This layer should be smooth and cover the entire surface of the cereal mixture.
- Set the Scotcheroos:
- Allow the Scotcheroos to cool at room temperature until the chocolate and butterscotch topping is fully set.
- This can take about 1-2 hours. For quicker results, you can place the dish in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Cut and Serve:
- Once set, cut the Scotcheroos into squares or bars.
- The size of the pieces can vary based on your preference. They are rich and sweet, so smaller pieces can be more manageable.
Tips for Perfect Scotcheroos:
- Avoid Overheating the Syrup: When heating the sugar and corn syrup, be careful not to let the mixture boil. Overheating can make the bars too hard and difficult to cut.
- Even Coating: Make sure the Rice Krispies are evenly coated with the peanut butter mixture. This ensures that the bars will hold together well and have a consistent texture.
- Patience with Setting: Let the bars set completely before cutting them. If you’re in a hurry, refrigerating the dish can speed up the process, but be careful not to let the bars get too cold, as this can make them harder to cut.
Variations:
- Add a Crunch: For added texture, mix in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or mini marshmallows with the Rice Krispies.
- Double the Chocolate: If you’re a chocolate lover, consider adding an extra 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the topping or drizzle melted chocolate over the set bars for an extra layer of chocolatey goodness.
- Use White Chocolate: For a different flavor profile, replace the semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate chips. This adds a sweet, creamy topping that pairs well with the peanut butter and butterscotch.
Scotcheroos are a beloved classic for a reason – they’re easy to make, incredibly tasty, and perfect for any occasion. The combination of crispy Rice Krispies, rich peanut butter, sweet chocolate, and butterscotch creates a dessert that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a potluck, or just a sweet treat at home, these bars are sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade Scotcheroos!
