Scotcharoo Bars Recipe

Oh my gosh, you guys! Have you ever tried a Scotcharoo bar? They’re like a little bite of heaven—crunchy, chocolatey, and super sweet!

I first made these bars last weekend, and wow—they were a hit. The peanut butter and chocolate mix just melts in your mouth, and the crispy bottom is so fun to bite into.

I knew I had to make them again and share the recipe. Imagine having a sweet, chewy, chocolatey treat ready in no time—yum!

Stick with me, and I’ll show you exactly how to make these easy and delicious Scotcharoo bars at home. You’re going to love them!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: With just a stovetop and a few simple steps, you’ll have a dessert ready in under 30 minutes.
• Kid-Friendly: Perfect for involving kids in the kitchen; they’ll love mixing and assembling the layers.
• Crowd-Pleasing: These bars are a nostalgic favorite that appeals to all ages.
• Customizable: Easily swap out ingredients to suit dietary preferences or creative flavor twists.

Required Kitchen Tools

To make these Scotcharoo Bars, you’ll need the following:

• A large saucepan
• A wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• A 9×13-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper or non-stick cooking spray
• A microwave-safe bowl

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create these delicious bars. (Exact measurements are in the recipe card below.)

Main Ingredients

• Rice Krispies or Special K cereal (6 cups): Provides the crispy texture that makes these bars irresistible.
• Brown sugar (1 cup): Adds a subtle molasses flavor and sweetness.
• White corn syrup (1 cup): The sticky base that holds everything together.
• Peanut butter (1½ cups): Creamy peanut butter gives richness and a nutty flavor.

Chocolate & Butterscotch Layer

• Semi-sweet chocolate chips (6 ounces): For the classic chocolatey topping.
• Butterscotch chips (6 ounces): The key to the unique flavor of Scotcharoos.

Flavor Enhancer

• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the mixture.

Variations for Scotcharoo Bars

Scotcharoo Bars are incredibly versatile, and here are a few fun ways to mix them up:

• Nut-Free Option: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or almond butter.
• Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor profile.
• Add Some Crunch: Mix in chopped peanuts, pretzel pieces, or mini marshmallows.
• Festive Twist: Decorate the top with sprinkles or candy pieces for special occasions.
• Healthier Swaps: Use honey instead of corn syrup and opt for natural peanut butter.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Baking Pan

Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or spray it with non-stick cooking spray. This will make removing and slicing the bars much easier.

2. Make the Peanut Butter Mixture

1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar and white corn syrup. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble slightly (do not let it boil vigorously).
2. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and peanut butter until smooth.

3. Add the Cereal

1. Gradually fold the cereal into the peanut butter mixture. Mix until all the cereal is evenly coated.
2. Quickly transfer the mixture into the prepared pan, pressing it down evenly with a spatula.

4. Create the Chocolate-Butterscotch Topping

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and butterscotch chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.
2. Pour the melted chocolate-butterscotch mixture over the cereal layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

5. Let It Set

Allow the Scotcharoo Bars to cool and set at room temperature. For faster results, you can place them in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes.

6. Slice and Serve

Once the bars have set, use a sharp knife to slice them into squares or rectangles. Serve and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Scotcharoo Bars are perfect as:

• Dessert Bars: Serve them on a platter at parties or gatherings.
• Lunchbox Treats: Pack a square in your kid’s lunch for a fun surprise.
• After-School Snack: Pair with a glass of milk for a satisfying treat.

Storing Scotcharoo Bars

• Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Refrigerator: To keep them fresher for longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezer: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	~240 kcal
Total Fat	11g
Saturated Fat	4g
Carbohydrates	32g
Protein	4g
Sugar	18g
Fiber	1g

Conclusion

Scotcharoo Bars are the ultimate no-bake treat, combining nostalgic flavors with modern convenience. With just six main ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is a surefire way to impress.

FAQs About Scotcharoo Bars

Why are my bars too hard?

Overheating the sugar mixture can make the bars overly firm. Be sure to heat the sugar and syrup mixture until just bubbling lightly, not boiling.

Can I use another cereal besides Rice Krispies?

Yes! Special K, Cheerios, or cornflakes can be great alternatives.

How do I prevent the topping from cracking?

Allow the bars to come to room temperature before slicing to avoid cracking the chocolate layer.