Scotcheroos

Welcome to your new favorite no-bake dessert, Scotcheroos. This classic Midwest dessert is an irresistible combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and butterscotch combined with crunchy rice cereal.

If you’ve never scotcheroos, you’re in for a treat. These no-bake bars are a favorite in many households, particularly in the Midwest. They combine crispy rice cereal with a sweet, gooey mixture of peanut butter, sugar, and honey (or corn syrup), topped off with a rich layer of melted chocolate and butterscotch chips. The result is a deliciously addictive dessert that’s incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a party, a potluck, or just a weekday treat, scotcheroos are always a hit.

What Makes This So Great?

Scotcheroos stand out for several reasons. First, they’re no-bake, which means you don’t have to turn on your oven, making them perfect for hot summer days or when you’re short on time. The combination of crispy rice cereal with the sweet and sticky peanut butter mixture creates a delightful texture contrast. And let’s not forget the topping of chocolate and butterscotch chips, which adds a creamy, sweet finish that’s hard to resist.

Another great thing about scotcheroos is their versatility. You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs, and they always turn out delicious. Plus, they’re a nostalgic treat for many, evoking memories of childhood and family gatherings.

What Kitchen Items Do You Need To Make This?

Making scotcheroos requires just a few basic kitchen items:

1. 9 x 13-inch pan: For setting the bars.
2. Parchment paper or cooking spray: To line or grease the pan.
3. Large bowl: For mixing the crispy rice cereal.
4. Large saucepan: For combining the sugar, honey, and peanut butter.
5. Microwave-safe bowl: For melting the chocolate and butterscotch chips.
6. Spatula: For spreading the mixture and the chocolate topping.

These items are common in most kitchens, so you likely already have everything you need.

What Ingredients Are Needed For This Recipe?

Here’s the simple ingredient list for making scotcheroos:

1. 6 cups crispy rice cereal
2. 1 cup white sugar
3. 1 cup honey or light corn syrup
4. 1 cup creamy peanut butter
5. 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
6. 12 oz butterscotch chips

These ingredients are easy to find at any grocery store, and you might already have most of them in your pantry.

How To Make It

Making scotcheroos is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare the Pan: Line a 9 x 13-inch pan with parchment paper or grease it well. This will make it easier to remove the bars once they’re set.
2. Mix the Cereal: Place the crispy rice cereal in a large bowl and set it aside.
3. Heat the Sugar and Honey: In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and honey (or corn syrup). Stir continuously until the mixture reaches a low boil, then remove it from the heat.
4. Add the Peanut Butter: Stir the peanut butter into the sugar and honey mixture until it’s smooth and well combined.
5. Combine with Cereal: Pour the peanut butter mixture over the crispy rice cereal and stir until the cereal is evenly coated.
6. Press into Pan: Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
7. Melt the Chips: Combine the butterscotch and chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on low for about 2 minutes, stopping to stir every 30 seconds, until the chips are melted and smooth.
8. Spread the Topping: Spread the melted chocolate and butterscotch mixture over the cereal layer in the pan. Use a spatula to smooth it out evenly.
9. Cool and Serve: Let the scotcheroos sit at room temperature until completely cooled and set. Once they’re firm, cut them into bars and serve.

What Is The History Behind This Recipe?

Scotcheroos have a long history, particularly in the Midwest, where they’re a beloved treat at potlucks, bake sales, and family gatherings. The recipe was first introduced in the 1960s, appearing on the back of a Rice Krispies cereal box. It quickly gained popularity due to its simplicity and delicious combination of ingredients.

The name “scotcheroos” comes from the butterscotch chips used in the topping. Over the years, the recipe has remained largely unchanged, a testament to its enduring appeal. Today, scotcheroos are enjoyed by people of all ages and have become a staple in many households.

What Can I Switch Up To Make This Different If I Have Dietary Needs (Vegan/Vegetarian/Gluten-Free)?

Scotcheroos can be easily adapted to suit various dietary needs. Here are some tips for making them vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free:

• Vegan/Vegetarian: Use a vegan alternative for the butter and choose dairy-free chocolate and butterscotch chips. You can also substitute honey with a plant-based syrup like maple syrup or agave nectar.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure that the crispy rice cereal you use is certified gluten-free. Some brands may contain barley malt, which is not gluten-free.

These substitutions won’t compromise the taste or texture, allowing everyone to enjoy this delicious treat.

What are Scotcheroos made of?

Scotcheroos are made from crispy rice cereal, sugar, honey (or light corn syrup), creamy peanut butter, and a topping of melted semi-sweet chocolate and butterscotch chips. This combination of ingredients creates a sweet, crispy, and gooey treat that’s hard to resist.

Are scotcheroos a Midwest thing?

Yes, scotcheroos are particularly popular in the Midwest. They’re a common sight at potlucks, bake sales, and family gatherings in states like Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Their popularity has spread over the years, but they’re still most closely associated with Midwestern cuisine.

What’s the difference between special K bars and Scotcheroos?

The primary difference between Special K bars and scotcheroos is the type of cereal used. Special K bars are made with Special K cereal, which is a flake cereal, while scotcheroos use crispy rice cereal. Additionally, Special K bars often include a caramel-like mixture, whereas scotcheroos use a peanut butter and honey (or corn syrup) mixture.

What are the different names for Scotcheroos?

Scotcheroos are sometimes known by other names, depending on the region or the person making them. Some common alternative names include:

• Rice Krispie Bars: A nod to the main ingredient, crispy rice cereal.
• Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats: Highlighting the peanut butter used in the recipe.
• No-Bake Bars: Emphasizing the fact that these treats don’t require baking.

Regardless of what they’re called, the delicious combination of ingredients remains the same.

How Should I Store This?

To keep your scotcheroos fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, although they may become a bit harder.

For longer storage, you can freeze scotcheroos. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours.

Scotcheroos are a classic, no-bake treat that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or make some tweaks to suit your dietary needs, you’re sure to enjoy these sweet, crispy, and gooey bars. So next time you’re in the mood for a quick and easy dessert, give scotcheroos a try – you won’t be disappointed!