Scotcheroos
A classic Midwestern treat! Chewy, crispy rice cereal bars held together with a sweet peanut butter mixture, all topped with a dreamy layer of melted chocolate and butterscotch. A no-bake favorite for potlucks and parties.
For 24 servings
5 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Pan and Cereal
- b.Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
- c.Measure 6 cups of crisp rice cereal into a very large, heatproof mixing bowl.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Create the Peanut Butter Syrup
- b.In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and light corn syrup.
- c.Place over medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture begins to bubble around the edges and comes to a full boil.
- d.As soon as it reaches a boil, immediately remove the saucepan from the heat. Do not over-boil, as this will result in hard, dry bars.
- e.Quickly stir in the creamy peanut butter until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Combine and Press the Base
- b.Pour the hot peanut butter syrup over the crisp rice cereal in the large bowl.
- c.Using a greased spatula or wooden spoon, work quickly to gently fold the mixture together until the cereal is evenly coated.
- d.Transfer the coated cereal to the prepared 9x13 inch pan.
- e.Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan. You can use the back of your greased spatula or place a piece of wax paper on top and press down with your hands.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Melt the Topping
- b.In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and butterscotch morsels.
- c.Microwave on 50% power for 60 seconds. Remove and stir well. Continue to microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring after each one, until the chips are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- d.Alternatively, melt the chips in a double boiler over simmering water, stirring until smooth.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Finish and Set the Bars
- b.Pour the melted chocolate and butterscotch mixture over the cereal base.
- c.Use an offset spatula to spread the topping into a smooth, even layer, covering the entire surface.
- d.Allow the Scotcheroos to set at room temperature for at least 2-3 hours, or until the topping is completely firm.
- e.Once set, use a sharp knife to cut into 24 bars. For cleaner cuts, you can run the knife under hot water and wipe it dry between slices.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1The most critical step is to remove the sugar syrup from the heat the moment it boils. Over-boiling caramelizes the sugar and will make your bars hard instead of chewy.
- 2Work quickly when mixing the hot syrup with the cereal. The mixture will stiffen as it cools, making it harder to mix and press.
- 3For easy, non-stick pressing, lightly grease your spatula or hands with butter or cooking spray.
- 4For the cleanest cuts, allow the bars to set completely at room temperature. Refrigerating can make the topping brittle and prone to cracking when cut.
- 5Store leftover Scotcheroos in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
Topping Twist
Use all semi-sweet chocolate, all milk chocolate, or a mix of peanut butter chips and chocolate chips for the topping.
Salty & SweetSalty & Sweet
After spreading the topping, sprinkle a light layer of flaky sea salt over the top for a delicious sweet and salty contrast.
Add InsAdd-Ins
Gently fold in 1/2 cup of mini M&Ms, chopped peanuts, or mini marshmallows along with the cereal for extra texture and flavor.
Cereal SwapCereal Swap
While classic Scotcheroos use crisp rice cereal, you can experiment with corn flakes or Chex cereal for a different texture.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Quick Energy Boost
The combination of sugar, corn syrup, and carbohydrates from the cereal provides a rapid source of energy, making it a satisfying treat when you need a quick pick-me-up.
Mood Enhancer
The delicious combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and butterscotch can be a delightful comfort food, providing a sense of satisfaction and potentially boosting your mood.
Frequently asked questions
This is the most common issue and it's almost always caused by over-boiling the sugar and corn syrup mixture. The moment the mixture comes to a rolling boil, it must be removed from the heat immediately. Boiling it for even 30 seconds longer will result in hard, crunchy bars instead of chewy ones.