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The scotcharoo is a classic no-bake dessert that everyone loves! These soft and chewy bars combine crispy rice cereal with a sweet peanut butter mixture, topped with a creamy layer of melted butterscotch and chocolate. This easy recipe is sure to become a favorite, perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or a quick treat at home.
The Chemistry of Scotcharoos
Making the perfect scotcharoo requires just a few simple steps, but understanding the science behind the ingredients ensures success every time:
- Corn Syrup’s Role: Corn syrup acts as a sweetener and a binding agent, holding the cereal mixture together while keeping it soft and chewy.
- Peanut Butter: The creamy texture of peanut butter blends seamlessly with the sugar mixture, creating a rich flavor that complements the chocolate and butterscotch topping.
- Melting the Topping: Melting chocolate and butterscotch chips in 30-second intervals prevents overheating, ensuring a smooth and glossy finish.
- Rice Cereal as the Base: The crispy texture of rice cereal provides the perfect contrast to the chewy peanut butter mixture, making each bite satisfying and balanced.
What is in a Scotcharoo?
Light Corn Syrup and Sugar
It provides sweetness and binding, creating a chewy base.
Creamy Peanut Butter
Adds richness and helps bind the cereal together.
Rice Cereal
The crispy element that forms the body of the bars.
Butterscotch Chips
Add a sweet, creamy flavor.
Milk Chocolate Chips
Provide the classic chocolate topping. Substitute with semi-sweet chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips for a less sweet option.
How do you make soft scotcharoos?
- Prepare the cereal. Measure 5 3/4 cups of rice cereal into a large bowl and set aside.
- Cook the peanut butter mixture. Combine 1 cup corn syrup (also known as Karo Syrup) and 1 cup granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth. Do not let it boil.
- Add the peanut butter to the corn syrup mixture. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 cup of creamy peanut butter until thoroughly combined.
- Mix with cereal. Pour the peanut butter mixture over the rice cereal and gently stir until the cereal is evenly coated. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cereal’s texture intact.
- Melt the chocolate and butterscotch. Combine 2 cups butterscotch chips and 2 cups milk chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each, until the mixture is smooth and melted.
- Press the cereal mixture. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray and line with parchment paper. Press the cereal mixture evenly into the dish.
- Add the topping. Pour the melted chocolate and butterscotch mixture over the cereal layer. Use an offset spatula to spread it into an even layer.
- Set and slice. Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature until the topping hardens. Slice into squares and enjoy!
Storage Tips
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. You can freeze individual bars in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Transporting Tips
Layer bars with parchment paper in a sturdy container to prevent sticking or melting during transport.
Making Ahead
Sctocharoos are an excellent make-ahead dessert. Prepare the bars a day in advance and let them set overnight. Store sliced bars in an airtight container for easy serving at parties or events.
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Why make a scotcharoo bars?
Scotcharoos bring back so many fond childhood memories. My sister used to whip up a batch for a sweet treat on a Sunday afternoon. The combination of peanut butter, crispy cereal, and a luscious chocolate butterscotch topping was irresistible. I love making them with my kids – they’re quick, delicious, and always a hit.
Soft and chewy scotcharoos are the perfect no-bake dessert for any occasion. An easy dessert, with their crispy, chewy base and rich chocolate-butterscotch topping, they’re a treat that everyone will love. Easy to make and even easier to eat, these bars are destined to become a family favorite!
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter?
While natural peanut butter can be used, it may affect the consistency of the bars due to its oil separation. Stick to creamy peanut butter for best results.
How do I keep Scotcharoos soft?
Avoid overcooking the corn syrup and sugar mixture, which can make the bars hard. Stir just until the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat.
Can I substitute butterscotch chips?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of butterscotch, use all chocolate chips or mix of chocolate and peanut butter chips for a different flavor profile.
How do I store Scotcharoos?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For more extended storage, freeze the bars in a freeze-safe container for up to 3 months.
Recipes You May Love
- Shaped Scotcharoos
- Scotcharoo Cookies
- Classic Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- Browned Butter Rice Krispie Treats
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Soft and Chewy Scotcharoos
Ingredients
- 1 cup karo syrup
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 5 3/4 cups rice krispie cereal
- 2 cups butterscotch chips
- 2 cups milk chocolate chips
Instructions
Rice Krispie Treat
- Measure out cereal into a bowl
- Add karo syrup, sugar & peanut butter to a medium sauce pan and place on medium heat
- Stir as it melts down, once melted and smooth, take off heat
- Pour peanut butter mixture over cereal, stir until completely coated (don’t over stir)
Topping
- Measure out chocolate & butterscotch chips in a glass bowl
- Place in microwave for 30 seconds
- Stir, repeat 1-2 more times until chocolate mixture is melted and smooth
Assemble
- Pour the cereal mixture into a 9×13 pan greased and lined with parchment paper
- Pour the chocolate mixture on top and spread into an even layer with an off-set spatula
- Allow the chocolate to harden fully before slicing. Enjoy!
Nutrition
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