Simple Scotcheroos
Scotcheroos are sweet, chewy, and absolutely packed with flavor, making them the kind of dessert you might accidentally eat all by yourself (no judgment here!).
Got a potluck coming up? Need an easy treat that everyone will devour? Look no further than these dreamy, chocolatey, peanut-buttery simple Scotcheroos!
With just a few simple ingredients and zero need to turn on the oven, these bars are a quick and delightful option that will have everyone at the table reaching for seconds. Scotcheroos are sweet, chewy, and absolutely packed with flavor, making them the kind of dessert you might accidentally eat all by yourself (no judgment here!).
Made with Rice Krispies, peanut butter, and an irresistible chocolate-butterscotch topping, this no-bake recipe is perfect for beginners or anyone craving something fuss-free. Plus, these squares are just fancy enough to impress but still super easy to whip up in less than 15 minutes! Let’s dive in and make some easy Scotcheroos magic.
- What are Scotcheroos?
- Why you’ll love this easy Scotcheroos recipe
- What tools do you need to make this recipe?
- Ingredients you’ll need
- How to make this simple Scotcheroos recipe… you’ve got this!
- How to store leftovers of Scotcheroos
- Frequently asked questions about this recipe
- Other recipes to try
- Simple Scotcheroos Recipe
What are Scotcheroos?
Simple Scotcheroos are a no-bake dessert bar made with Rice Krispies cereal, peanut butter, and a gooey chocolate-butterscotch topping. Originating in the Midwest, these treats are famous for their sweet and salty flavor profile and chewy-crunchy texture. With only six ingredients and no baking time, Scotcheroos are a perfect last-minute dessert that everyone will love.
Why you’ll love this easy Scotcheroos recipe
- So Satisfying: The chewy, peanut-buttery base topped with melty chocolate is dessert heaven.
- Quick & Easy: With no baking required, this recipe takes just 15 minutes to prep, plus some chill time.
- Kid-Friendly: Simple ingredients mean even little ones can help make (and eat!) these tasty bars.
- Perfect for Potlucks: These Scotcheroos are a crowd-pleaser and travel well, making them an ideal choice for parties.
- Customizable: Double the chocolate or swap in dark chocolate for a twist on the classic!
What tools do you need to make this recipe?
You’ll only need a few basics to whip up these simple Scotcheroos:
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- A large saucepan
- Large mixing bowl
- 8” x 8” baking pan
- Microwave-safe bowl(s) for melting chocolate
RELATED: Classic Oatmeal Cookies with Raisins – these oatmeal raisin cookies are the epitome of simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in no time.
Ingredients you’ll need
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light or dark corn syrup
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
Be sure to check out the full ingredient list and printable recipe in the recipe card below.
How to make this simple Scotcheroos recipe… you’ve got this!
- Prep the pan: Line an 8” x 8” pan with parchment paper and give it a quick spray of non-stick cooking spray. Set it aside.
- Cook the syrup: In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and corn syrup, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then remove it from the heat.
- Add peanut butter: Stir in the peanut butter until smooth and well-blended.
- Combine with cereal: In a large bowl, pour the peanut butter mixture over the Rice Krispies and mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Spread in the pan: Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Set aside.
- Melt the topping: In a microwave-safe bowl (or two bowls if you’re separating them), melt the chocolate and butterscotch chips. Heat for 1 minute, then stir. Continue to microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.
- Pour & chill: Spread the chocolate-butterscotch mixture over the Rice Krispies layer. Pop the pan in the fridge for about 2 hours, or until the topping is firm.
- Slice and serve: Once set, slice the Scotcheroos into 9 squares and enjoy!
Make this simple Scotcheroos recipe then check out my Simple Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies and more of my simple cookie recipes.
How to store leftovers of Scotcheroos
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If it’s hot where you are, store them in the fridge to keep the chocolate topping firm.
Frequently asked questions about this recipe
Can I use natural peanut butter?
It’s best to stick with regular creamy peanut butter, as natural peanut butter can be too runny.
How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing?
Melt the chocolate in short intervals and stir between each to keep it smooth and lump-free.
Can I freeze Scotcheroos?
Absolutely! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
What can I substitute for butterscotch chips?
If you don’t have butterscotch, try white chocolate chips for a slightly different flavor twist!
Why are my Scotcheroos hard?
Avoid letting the syrup boil for too long; just bring it to a rolling boil and remove it from the heat.
And there you have it—a perfectly easy-to-make, no-bake recipe that’s both nostalgic and delicious! Scotcheroos are the ultimate fuss-free dessert for potlucks, parties, or simply when you need a sweet treat in a hurry. Grab your ingredients, and in no time, you’ll be serving up a batch of these yummy, chewy bars. Happy baking… or rather, non-baking!
Other recipes to try
- list of other recipes
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Simple Scotcheroos Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 c. granulated sugar
- 1 c. corn syrup light or dark
- 1 c. creamy peanut butter
- 6 c. Rice Krispies
- 1 c. semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 c. butterscotch chips
Instructions
- Line an 8” x 8” pan with parchment paper and spray with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
- Heat granulated sugar and corn syrup in a large, heavy saucepan over medium heat, stirring continually, until mixture comes to a rolling boil.1 c. granulated sugar, 1 c. corn syrup
- Stir in peanut butter and remove from heat. Set aside.1 c. creamy peanut butter
- Add Rice Krispies to a large bowl. Pour peanut butter mixture over the cereal and mix to combine.6 c. Rice Krispies
- Spread the Rice Krispies mixture evenly in the prepared baking pan. Set aside.
- In the microwave, melt the chocolate and butterscotch chips in a large glass bowl (or two separate bowls, if preferred). Heat for 1 minute and then stir. Then, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chips are completely melted.1 c. semisweet chocolate chips, 1 c. butterscotch chips
- Pour chocolate-butterscotch mixture over the cereal mixture in the baking pan and spread out evenly. Refrigerate for 2 hours or until chocolate hardens.
- Remove from refrigerator and slice into 9 sections before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- To prevent lumps when melting the butterscotch chips, melt them in a separate bowl.
- For a thicker chocolate-butterscotch topping, double the amount chocolate chips and butterscotch chips.