Peanut Butter Scotcheroo Bars

Peanut Butter Scotcheroo Bars are rich, chewy no-bake treats made with crispy rice cereal, peanut butter, and a luscious topping of melted chocolate and butterscotch chips. These bars are a nostalgic favorite and a staple in Midwest kitchens.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy and requires no baking. The combination of creamy peanut butter, sweet butterscotch, and crispy cereal delivers irresistible texture and flavor. Ideal for quick desserts, lunchbox treats, or potlucks, these bars come together in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Crispy rice cereal
• Creamy peanut butter
• Granulated sugar
• Light corn syrup
• Butterscotch chips
• Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
• Butter or oil (optional, for smoother topping)

Directions

1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine corn syrup and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to boil.
2. Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter until smooth.
3. Add the crispy rice cereal and mix until evenly coated.
4. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch pan using a spatula or wax paper.
5. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate and butterscotch chips together in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
6. Pour the chocolate mixture over the bars and spread evenly.
7. Let the bars cool at room temperature or refrigerate until the topping is set.
8. Cut into squares and serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 24 bars
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 20–30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
• Add a pinch of salt or sea salt flakes on top for contrast.
• Mix in chopped nuts or mini marshmallows with the cereal.
• Use dark chocolate for a less sweet version.

Storage/Reheating

Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
To soften refrigerated bars, let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving. These bars are not meant to be reheated.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but choose a creamy, no-stir version to ensure the mixture sets properly.

Why are my bars too hard?

Boiling the sugar mixture too long can make the bars overly firm. Remove from heat as soon as it starts to boil.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

What if I don’t have butterscotch chips?

You can substitute with more chocolate chips, though the traditional flavor will be altered.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal and verify all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How do I spread the mixture evenly in the pan?

Use a greased spatula or press with wax paper to flatten the top evenly.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger pan or make two batches if needed.

Are these bars good for bake sales?

Absolutely. They are easy to transport, store well, and are a crowd-pleaser.

What can I add for extra crunch?

Chopped peanuts, pretzels, or toffee bits are great additions.

How long do these take to set?

About 20–30 minutes at room temperature, or quicker if refrigerated.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Scotcheroo Bars are a timeless, no-bake dessert that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Perfectly chewy and rich, they strike a delicious balance between peanut butter and chocolate. These bars are ideal for any occasion and guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.

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