Classic Scotcharoos are a no-bake, sweet and salty treat that’s been a family favorite for years. With a crunchy Rice Krispies base, a creamy peanut butter filling, and a decadent layer of chocolate and butterscotch, these bars are the perfect combination of textures and flavors. Whether you’re looking for an easy dessert or a crowd-pleasing snack, Scotcharoos hit the spot every time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Scotcharoos are incredibly easy to make with just a few ingredients, and they come together in no time. The combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and butterscotch creates a flavor profile that’s both nostalgic and irresistible. Plus, these bars require no baking—just melt, mix, and chill for a quick treat that everyone will love. They’re perfect for parties, bake sales, or just a sweet snack at home.
Ingredients
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1 cup sugar
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1 cup corn syrup
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1 cup peanut butter
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6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
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1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
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1 cup butterscotch chips
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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In a large saucepan, heat sugar and corn syrup over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil. Remove from heat.
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Stir in the peanut butter until smooth and fully combined.
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Add the Rice Krispies to the peanut butter mixture, stirring until the cereal is completely coated.
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Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, spreading it evenly and firmly.
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In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate and butterscotch chips together. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth.
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Pour the melted chocolate and butterscotch mixture over the cereal layer, spreading it evenly to cover.
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Let the bars set at room temperature for about 30 minutes or until firm.
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Once set, cut into squares and serve!
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 24
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Chill Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
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Add nuts: Stir in chopped peanuts or other nuts into the Rice Krispies mixture for added crunch.
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Make them peanut-free: Use sunflower butter or almond butter as a substitute for peanut butter.
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Use white chocolate: Substitute the semi-sweet chocolate with white chocolate chips for a different flavor twist.
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Top with sprinkles: Add colorful sprinkles or crushed candy on top of the chocolate layer for extra fun.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store Scotcharoos in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
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Freezing: Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature.
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Reheating: These bars are best enjoyed at room temperature—no reheating necessary.
FAQs
Can I use different cereals?
Yes, you can substitute Rice Krispies with other crispy cereals like Cornflakes or even Cheerios, though the texture will be slightly different.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Scotcharoos store well and actually taste even better after a day of chilling.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, using crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture, but smooth peanut butter is more traditional for this recipe.
Can I make these bars without corn syrup?
You can substitute corn syrup with honey or maple syrup, though the texture and flavor will be slightly different.
How do I prevent the chocolate layer from hardening too much?
If you prefer a softer chocolate topping, let the melted chocolate and butterscotch mixture cool slightly before spreading it over the bars.
How do I know when the bars are ready?
The bars should set at room temperature after about 30 minutes. If they’re firm to the touch, they’re ready to cut into squares.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Feel free to add in mini marshmallows, raisins, or coconut flakes for extra flavor and texture.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, Rice Krispies are available in a gluten-free variety. Be sure to check all ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking pan, adjusting the baking time if necessary.
Are these bars very sweet?
They have a perfect balance of sweetness from the butterscotch and chocolate, but you can adjust the sugar by reducing the corn syrup if needed.
Conclusion
Classic Scotcharoos are the ultimate treat when you’re craving something sweet, salty, and satisfying. With a perfect blend of crunchy, gooey, and creamy textures, these bars are easy to make and impossible to resist. Whether you’re enjoying them at a gathering or sneaking a bite as an afternoon snack, Scotcharoos are sure to be a hit!
Print
Classic Scotcharoos
Classic Scotcharoos are a delicious no-bake treat that combines crunchy Rice Krispies, creamy peanut butter, and a decadent layer of chocolate and butterscotch. Perfect for parties, bake sales, or a sweet snack at home, these bars offer the ultimate balance of sweet and salty flavors with minimal effort.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 squares
Ingredients
1 cup sugar
1 cup corn syrup
1 cup peanut butter
6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup butterscotch chips
Instructions
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Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture: In a large saucepan, heat sugar and corn syrup over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in the peanut butter until smooth and fully combined.
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Combine with Rice Krispies: Add the Rice Krispies to the peanut butter mixture, stirring until the cereal is completely coated.
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Press into Baking Pan: Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, spreading it evenly and firmly.
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Melt the Chocolate and Butterscotch Chips: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate and butterscotch chips together. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth.
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Top the Cereal Layer: Pour the melted chocolate and butterscotch mixture over the cereal layer, spreading it evenly to cover.
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Let Set: Let the bars set at room temperature for about 30 minutes or until firm.
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Cut and Serve: Once set, cut into squares and serve.
Notes
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Add nuts: Stir in chopped peanuts or other nuts into the Rice Krispies mixture for added crunch.
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Make them peanut-free: Use sunflower butter or almond butter as a substitute for peanut butter.
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Use white chocolate: Substitute the semi-sweet chocolate with white chocolate chips for a different flavor twist.
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Top with sprinkles: Add colorful sprinkles or crushed candy on top of the chocolate layer for extra fun.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
