If you’re looking for a dessert that’s quick, chewy, crunchy, and chocolatey all in one bite, you can’t go wrong with Scotcheroos. This Midwest classic, made with just six pantry-friendly ingredients, is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a bake sale, family gathering, or just a cozy night in, these bars hit the sweet spot every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 6 cups crispy rice cereal
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prep the Pan
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes serving easier later.
Step 2: Make the Syrup Mixture
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and corn syrup.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture just begins to bubble.
⚠️ Important: Don’t let it boil—boiling makes Scotcheroos hard instead of chewy.
Step 3: Stir in Peanut Butter
- Remove the saucepan from heat.
- Add the creamy peanut butter and stir until smooth and fully blended.
Step 4: Mix with Cereal
- Pour the crispy rice cereal into the mixture.
- Stir gently until every piece is well coated.
Step 5: Press into Pan
- Quickly transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Use a spatula or wax paper to press it evenly and firmly into the pan.
Step 6: Make the Topping
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butterscotch chips.
- Melt in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and glossy.
Step 7: Spread the Topping
- Pour the melted chocolate-butterscotch mixture over the cereal base.
- Spread evenly with a spatula for a smooth finish.
Step 8: Set and Slice
- Let the bars cool at room temperature until the topping sets.
- For quicker results, chill in the fridge for 20–30 minutes.
- Cut into squares or rectangles and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Scotcheroos
- Don’t overheat the sugar mixture: Once it bubbles, remove it immediately. Overcooking makes the bars too hard.
- Use creamy peanut butter: Natural varieties with oil separation don’t set as well.
- Line the pan with parchment paper: Makes removal and cleanup a breeze.
- Customize the topping: Try white chocolate + peanut butter chips, or dark chocolate + caramel drizzle.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Fun Variations
- Salted Scotcheroos: Sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top before the chocolate sets.
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped peanuts or almonds to the cereal mixture.
- Holiday Version: Top with festive sprinkles or colored candy melts.
- Extra Gooey: Add ½ cup marshmallows to the peanut butter mixture before mixing with cereal.
Serving Ideas
Scotcheroos are versatile and fit any occasion:
- Pack them in lunchboxes as a sweet surprise.
- Slice into bite-sized squares for party platters.
- Wrap individually for bake sales or gifts.
- Pair with a cup of coffee for the perfect afternoon treat.
FAQs
1. Why are my Scotcheroos hard instead of chewy?
You likely boiled the sugar-corn syrup mixture too long. Remove it from heat as soon as it starts bubbling.
2. Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes! It adds a fun crunch, but the bars may be slightly less cohesive.
3. Can I freeze Scotcheroos?
Definitely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
4. Can I substitute corn syrup?
Honey or maple syrup can be used, but the flavor and texture will change slightly. Corn syrup gives the classic chewy consistency.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just use a larger sheet pan (like 11×15) to spread the mixture evenly.
Conclusion
The Best Ever Scotcheroos are proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create an unforgettable dessert. With the perfect balance of chewy peanut butter crunch and smooth chocolate-butterscotch topping, they’re a treat that never goes out of style.
Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these no-bake bars are guaranteed to disappear fast—so you might want to double the batch!