Easy Scotcheroos – A Sweet and Chewy Classic Treat

Easy Scotcheroos – A Sweet and Chewy Classic Treat

If you’re craving a nostalgic dessert that’s irresistibly chewy, rich, and sweet, look no further than these homemade Scotcheroos. Combining the classic flavors of peanut butter, chocolate, and butterscotch, these no-bake bars are perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or whenever you need a quick and easy treat. Best of all, they’re made lighter without sacrificing the classic taste you know and love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor – Peanut butter, chocolate, and butterscotch come together in every bite.
Quick & Easy – No baking required, ready in under 30 minutes.
Family Favorite – Loved by kids and adults alike.
Lighter Option – Crafted with smart swaps to keep it mindful.

Ingredients

  • ¾ cup creamy peanut butter (natural or reduced-fat)
  • ½ cup light corn syrup
  • ⅓ cup sugar substitute (like erythritol or monk fruit)
  • 3 cups crispy rice cereal
  • ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or sugar-free chocolate chips)
  • ½ cup butterscotch chips (use lighter versions if available)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

Prepare the Base

In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the peanut butter, corn syrup, and sugar substitute. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and just begins to bubble. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla and a pinch of salt.

Mix with Cereal

Gently fold in the crispy rice cereal until fully coated with the peanut butter mixture.

Press into Pan

Lightly coat an 8×8-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. Press the cereal mixture evenly into the dish, using a spatula or clean hands.

Melt the Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butterscotch chips. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.

Top and Chill

Spread the melted chocolate-butterscotch mixture over the cereal base. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until set.

Cut and Serve

Once firm, slice into 16 squares and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (Per Square – Approximate)

  • Calories: 160
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 7g
  • Carbs: 22g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 9g

Tips for Success

  • Use Fresh Cereal: Old cereal can become stale and ruin the texture.
  • Don’t Overcook: Heat the peanut butter mixture just until smooth to prevent hardening.
  • Customize the Topping: Try dark chocolate or add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a flavor twist.

Why This Recipe Works

Scotcheroos balance sweet, salty, and creamy flavors with a delightful crispy texture. With a few mindful ingredient swaps, you can enjoy a lighter version of this classic dessert without missing any of the indulgence.

These Scotcheroos are proof that you don’t have to give up your favorite nostalgic treats to stay on track with your goals. Quick, simple, and satisfyingly delicious, they’re destined to become a favorite in your home. Perfect for sharing—or for keeping all to yourself!

Easy Scotcheroos – A Sweet and Chewy Classic Treat
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Easy Scotcheroos – A Sweet and Chewy Classic Treat

Servings

16

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

5

minutes
Calories

160

kcal

Scotcheroos are chewy, crispy dessert bars layered with the rich flavors of peanut butter, chocolate, and butterscotch. This lighter version offers the same nostalgic, sweet satisfaction with a few smart ingredient swaps, making them perfect for guilt-free indulging. Quick to make and no oven needed, they’re a fantastic treat for parties, lunchboxes, or whenever you need a quick bite of something delicious.

Ingredients

  • ¾ cup creamy peanut butter (natural or reduced-fat)

  • ½ cup light corn syrup

  • ⅓ cup sugar substitute (like erythritol or monk fruit)

  • 3 cups crispy rice cereal

  • ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or sugar-free chocolate chips)

  • ½ cup butterscotch chips (use lighter versions if available)

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  • Prepare the Base
    In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the peanut butter, corn syrup, and sugar substitute. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and just begins to bubble. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla and a pinch of salt.
  • Mix with Cereal
    Gently fold in the crispy rice cereal until fully coated with the peanut butter mixture.
  • Press into Pan
    Lightly coat an 8×8-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. Press the cereal mixture evenly into the dish, using a spatula or clean hands.
  • Melt the Topping
    In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butterscotch chips. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
  • Top and Chill
    Spread the melted chocolate-butterscotch mixture over the cereal base. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until set.
  • Cut and Serve
    Once firm, slice into 16 squares and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use Fresh Cereal: Old cereal can become stale and ruin the texture.
    Don’t Overcook: Heat the peanut butter mixture just until smooth to prevent hardening.
    Customize the Topping: Try dark chocolate or add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a flavor twist.

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