If you’ve ever craved a dessert that’s quick, easy, and absolutely addictive, look no further than Scotcheroos. These classic no-bake bars have stood the test of time for a reason: they deliver the perfect trifecta of sweet, salty, and crunchy goodness in every bite. With a chewy peanut butter base, crispy cereal for crunch, and a luscious topping of melted chocolate and butterscotch, these bars are guaranteed to disappear fast—so don’t expect leftovers!
Whether you’re making them for a potluck, holiday tray, or just a weeknight treat, Scotcheroos are an easy win. Let’s dive into exactly how to make this crowd-pleasing favorite.
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Ingredients You’ll Need (and Why They Matter)
6 cups crispy rice cereal – The light, crunchy foundation that gives Scotcheroos their signature texture.
1 cup light corn syrup – Provides sweetness and helps bind the cereal mixture without baking.
1 cup granulated sugar – Adds structure and sweetness to the peanut butter mixture.
1 cup creamy peanut butter – The rich, nutty glue that holds the bars together while balancing sweetness with savory depth.
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – Brings a smooth, chocolaty top layer that pairs perfectly with peanut butter.
1 cup butterscotch chips – Sweet, buttery notes that blend with chocolate for a melt-in-your-mouth finish.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare your pan – Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Cook the base mixture – In a large saucepan, combine the corn syrup and sugar. Heat over medium, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture just begins to bubble. Do not let it boil, or the bars will turn hard instead of chewy.
3. Add the peanut butter – Remove the pan from heat and stir in the peanut butter until smooth and fully incorporated.
4. Mix in the cereal – Pour the crispy rice cereal into the peanut butter mixture. Stir until every piece is evenly coated.
5. Press into the pan – Quickly transfer the mixture into your prepared dish. Press down firmly with a spatula or lightly greased hands to create an even layer.
6. Make the topping – In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butterscotch chips. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely melted and smooth.
7. Spread the topping – Pour the melted mixture over the cereal base and smooth it out with a spatula.
8. Set and slice – Let the bars cool at room temperature until firm. Once set, cut into squares or rectangles and serve.
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Why Everyone Loves Scotcheroos
No-bake convenience – Perfect for hot days or busy schedules.
Balanced flavor – Sweet chocolate, buttery butterscotch, nutty peanut butter, and crispy cereal in every bite.
Crowd-pleaser – A nostalgic treat that appeals to both kids and adults.
Make-ahead friendly – Stores well in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Scotcheroos
Don’t overheat the sugar mixture – Boiling will make your bars hard instead of chewy.
Press gently – Packing too firmly can make the base dense. Aim for even, light pressure.
Customize the topping – Add a sprinkle of sea salt, drizzle with white chocolate, or swirl in peanut butter for extra flair.
Cut while slightly warm – Makes slicing into neat bars much easier.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve Scotcheroos as:
A sweet finish to a casual dinner of grilled burgers and fries.
A party tray dessert alongside cookies, brownies, and fudge.
A lunchbox treat paired with fresh fruit for balance.
A quick pick-me-up snack with coffee or a glass of cold milk.
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Final Thoughts
Scotcheroos are the ultimate dessert bar: easy, no-bake, and guaranteed to satisfy. With just a handful of pantry staples and less than 20 minutes of effort, you can create a nostalgic treat that’s always a hit. Their perfect combination of chewy, crunchy, chocolaty, and nutty flavors makes them irresistible, and once you make them, you’ll understand why they’ve remained a beloved classic for decades.
So, the next time you need a foolproof dessert that everyone will rave about, w
hip up a batch of Scotcheroos—they’re proof that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most unforgettable.
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