Introduction
Dive into the world of Scotcharoos, a delightful treat that marries the nutty richness of peanut butter with the smooth allure of chocolate and butterscotch. This dessert, a perfect blend of sweet and savory, promises to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, the simplicity and deliciousness of Scotcharoos will have you coming back for more. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure and discover how to create these irresistible bars.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, or as needed
- 1 ½ cups peanut butter
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup white sugar
- 6 cups crisp rice cereal
- ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup butterscotch chips
Directions
1️⃣ Prepare Pan: Start by generously buttering a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure easy removal of the bars once they’re set. Keep this pan aside for later use.
2️⃣ Cook Peanut Butter Mixture: In a large pot, combine the peanut butter, corn syrup, and sugar. Cook and stir this mixture over medium heat until the peanut butter melts and the ingredients are well combined. Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove it from the heat.
3️⃣ Add Rice Cereal: Stir in the rice cereal into the peanut butter mixture until everything is thoroughly combined. Transfer this mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use buttered hands to pat down the mixture evenly across the pan.
4️⃣ Melt Chocolate and Butterscotch Chips: In a medium saucepan, melt the chocolate chips and butterscotch chips together over medium-low heat, stirring until the mixture is smooth. Once melted, spread this chocolate-butterscotch mixture evenly over the top of the cereal layer in the pan.
5️⃣ Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool completely, which should take about 20 minutes. Once cooled, cut the mixture into 24 squares for serving.
Notes and Tips
- For an even layer of chocolate and butterscotch, use a spatula to spread the mixture smoothly over the cereal base.
- If you’re in a rush, placing the pan in the refrigerator can speed up the cooling process, but be sure to let it come to room temperature before cutting to avoid cracking.
- Customization is key! Feel free to add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty twist or mix in some nuts or crispy bacon bits into the cereal mixture for added texture.
Nutritional Information & Health Benefits
Nutrition details
- Serving: 1 square
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 2 mg
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 25 g
- Vitamin D: 0.1 µg
- Calcium: 20 mg
- Iron: 0.8 mg
While Scotcharoos are a treat best enjoyed in moderation, they do offer some nutritional benefits. The peanut butter provides protein and healthy fats, while the cereal adds a crunch that’s not just satisfying but also a source of iron. Remember, it’s all about balance!
FAQs
Q: Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter? A: Absolutely! Almond butter can be a delicious alternative for those with peanut allergies or preferences.
Q: How long can Scotcharoos be stored? A: Scotcharoos can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, ensuring they remain fresh and delicious.
Q: Can Scotcharoos be frozen? A: Yes, you can freeze Scotcharoos for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag.
Q: Are Scotcharoos gluten-free? A: While the main ingredients are gluten-free, some brands of crisp rice cereal and butterscotch chips may contain gluten. Always check the labels if you need to ensure the treat is gluten-free.
Scotcharoos are more than just a dessert; they’re a testament to the joy of mixing simple ingredients to create something truly magical. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just as a treat for yourself, these bars are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. So, why wait? Grab your ingredients, and let’s make some Scotcharoos!