Golden, Crunchy Scotcharoos Recipe: Sweet Treat Magic

Chocolate and butterscotch chips dance together in this irresistible scotcharoos recipe that promises pure indulgence.

Sweet memories of childhood treats blend effortlessly with the rich, crunchy layers of this classic dessert.

These no-bake bars deliver a perfect balance of crispy rice cereal, smooth peanut butter, and decadent chocolate coating.

Melted butterscotch and chocolate chips create a luxurious topping that elevates every single bite.

Each square offers a delightful crunch and sweet harmony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Prepare to seduce your taste buds with this simple yet spectacular dessert that comes together in minutes.

Grab a pan and let the magic begin!

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Calories: 295 kcal

Servings: 13

Scotcharoo Ingredient Must-Haves

• Corn Syrup: Provides silky sweetness and helps bind ingredients smoothly without crystallizing.
• Granulated Sugar: Creates structural sweetness and helps achieve perfect chewy texture.
• Peanut Butter: Delivers rich, creamy flavor and helps hold ingredients together with nutty undertones.

• Rice Krispies Cereal: Brings delightful crispy texture and light airiness to the treat, creating signature crackle.

• Chocolate Chips, Butterscotch Chips: Melt into luxurious, glossy layer that adds decadent sweetness and complex flavor profile, creating irresistible chocolate-caramel notes.

Equipment to Make These Chewy Chocolatey Bars

• Large Saucepan: Essential for mixing corn syrup, sugar, and peanut butter with heat control.
• Spatula: Perfect for folding cereal and spreading mixtures evenly in the pan.
• 9×13-inch Baking Pan: Key for creating and shaping the scotcharoos.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl: Necessary for melting chocolate and butterscotch chips smoothly.
• Measuring Cups: Help accurately measure corn syrup, sugar, and peanut butter.
• Parchment Paper (optional): Helps with easy removal of bars from the pan.

How to Mix and Press Scotcharoos

• Prep the Baking Surface

Grab a 9×13 pan and give it a quick spray or line with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

• Whip Up the Gooey Base

In a big pot, mix corn syrup and sugar over medium heat. Stir until it just starts bubbling, then pull it off the stove. Fold in peanut butter until silky smooth.

• Mix in the Crunch

Dump Rice Krispies into the pot and gently stir until every piece is coated with the nutty mixture.

• Create the First Layer

Transfer the cereal blend into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to press it down evenly, creating a solid foundation.

• Craft the Chocolate Topping

Toss chocolate and butterscotch chips into a microwave-safe bowl. Zap in short bursts, stirring between each, until completely melted and glossy.

• Drizzle and Spread

Pour the molten chocolate mixture over the cereal base. Smooth it out with a spatula, ensuring complete coverage.

• Set and Slice

Let the bars chill at room temperature until the topping hardens. Once firm, slice into bite-sized squares and enjoy your sweet creation.

Tips to Customize Scotcharoos with Texture

• Use cooking spray or softened butter for an effortless release, preventing sticky edges and making cutting squares a breeze.
• Allow ingredients like peanut butter and corn syrup to sit at room temperature for smoother mixing and more consistent texture.
• Stir chocolate and butterscotch chips gently during microwaving to prevent burning and ensure silky-smooth melting.
• Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts for clean, precise scotcharoo pieces that look professionally made.
• Swap regular Rice Krispies for gluten-free crispy rice cereal to make this dessert safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Serving Scotcharoos for Bake Sales or Snacks

• Sweet Celebration Platter: Arrange scotcharoos on a colorful dessert tray with fresh strawberries and mint leaves for an elegant presentation.
• Party Snack Centerpiece: Stack the bars in a pyramid shape on a rustic wooden board, perfect for casual gatherings and potlucks.
• Gifting Delights: Wrap individual squares in cellophane with a cute ribbon for homemade edible gifts that friends and family will adore.
• Coffee Companion: Serve alongside a hot espresso or cold milk for a delightful afternoon treat that satisfies sweet cravings instantly.

Keep Scotcharoos from Getting Too Hard

• Keep scotcharoos in an airtight container within the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Stack layers with wax paper between them to prevent sticking and maintain their delightful texture.
• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place inside a freezer-safe container. These treats can be frozen for 2-3 months, offering a delicious make-ahead dessert option that stays fresh and tasty.
• Store covered at room temperature for 3-4 days in a sealed container. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources to maintain their crisp, chewy consistency and prevent chocolate from melting.
• Prepare scotcharoos a day before serving for enhanced flavor development. Allow bars to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying, which helps soften the chocolate topping and brings out the rich, sweet flavors.

FAQs

• Are scotcharoos difficult to make?

No, they’re super easy! Most home cooks can make these in about 20 minutes with basic ingredients and simple mixing techniques.

• Can I use a different type of cereal?

Rice Krispies work best because they provide the perfect crispy texture, but you could try corn flakes or similar crisp cereals if needed.

• What if I don't have corn syrup?

You can substitute light corn syrup with honey or brown rice syrup, though the texture might be slightly different from the classic recipe.

• How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking when cutting?

Let the bars come to room temperature before cutting, and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for smooth, clean edges.

Crispy Scotcharoos Recipe

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4.8 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 13 1x

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Description

Irresistible scotcharoos blend peanut butter, chocolate, and crispy rice cereal into a classic Midwestern dessert. Nostalgic flavors and simple ingredients create a sweet treat you’ll savor with each delightful bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup (240g / 8.5 oz) creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup (200g / 7 oz) granulated sugar
• 6 cups (180g / 6.3 oz) Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 cup (240g / 8.5 oz) light corn syrup
• 1 cup (175g / 6.2 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup (175g / 6.2 oz) butterscotch chips

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Grease a 9×13-inch pan or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Syrup Base: In a large saucepan, heat corn syrup and sugar until bubbling, then remove from heat immediately.
3. Peanut Butter Fusion: Whisk peanut butter into the warm syrup until smooth and completely integrated.
4. Cereal Coating: Fold crispy rice cereal into the mixture, ensuring every piece is evenly coated and distributed.
5. Pan Settlement: Press the cereal mixture firmly into the prepared pan, creating a compact and level surface.
6. Chocolate Topping: Melt chocolate and butterscotch chips in short microwave intervals, stirring between each to prevent burning.
7. Topping Application: Spread the melted chip mixture evenly across the cereal base, covering the entire surface with a smooth layer.
8. Setting and Serving: Allow the scotcharoos to set at room temperature for 30-45 minutes, or refrigerate for faster setting. Cut into squares and serve at room temperature to enjoy optimal texture and flavor.

Notes

• Prevent Sticking Smartly: Generously spray or line the baking pan to ensure clean, easy removal of scotcharoos without any messy residue.
• Master the Syrup Technique: Remove the syrup mixture from heat immediately after first bubbles appear to prevent burning and maintain a perfect smooth texture.
• Fold Cereal Gently: Use a light folding motion when mixing cereal to avoid crushing the crispy kernels, preserving the signature crunch and airy texture.
• Chocolate Melting Pro Tip: Microwave chocolate and butterscotch chips in short 15-second bursts, stirring between each interval to prevent scorching and achieve a silky, glossy topping.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 13
• Calories: 295
• Sugar: 24 g
• Sodium: 40 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 41 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg