Indulge your sweet tooth with these irresistible Scotcharoos! This classic American treat is the perfect combination of chewy, crispy, and oh-so-delicious. Whip up a batch today and watch them disappear in no time!
**Ingredients:**
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 6 cups crispy rice cereal
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
**Instructions:**
- In a large saucepan, combine sugar and corn syrup over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar is dissolved.
- Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter until smooth.
- Add crispy rice cereal and mix well.
- Press mixture into a greased 9×13 inch pan.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate and butterscotch chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
- Spread chocolate mixture over the cereal mixture in the pan.
- Let cool before cutting into squares and serving.
**Nutrition Information:**
- Serving size: 1 square
- Calories: 180
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 105mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 29g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 2g
**Popular questions:**
1. **Can I substitute crunchy peanut butter for creamy?**
– Generally, creamy peanut butter works best for the texture of Scotcharoos, but you can experiment with crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a different consistency.
2. **How long do Scotcharoos stay fresh?**
– Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
3. **Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet?**
– Yes, you can use dark chocolate if you prefer a richer flavor.
4. **What can I use as a substitute for corn syrup?**
– You can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute for corn syrup in this recipe.
5. **Can I freeze Scotcharoos?**
– Yes, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just make sure to thaw them before serving.
6. **How can I make these Scotcharoos gluten-free?**
– Use gluten-free crispy rice cereal to make this recipe gluten-free.
7. **Can I add chopped nuts to the mixture?**
– Yes, adding chopped nuts like almonds or pecans can add extra texture and flavor to the Scotcharoos.
8. **Can I double the recipe?**
– Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch of Scotcharoos.
9. **How can I prevent the chocolate topping from cracking when cutting?**
– Allow the chocolate topping to set completely before cutting into squares to prevent cracking.
10. **Is it necessary to use both chocolate and butterscotch chips?**
– The combination of chocolate and butterscotch chips adds a unique flavor to Scotcharoos, but you can use one type of chip if you prefer.
**Helpful tips:**
- Try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty flavor contrast.
- For a festive touch, decorate Scotcharoos with colorful sprinkles or chopped nuts.
- Drizzle melted white chocolate over the top for an extra decadent twist.
- Experiment with different nut butter varieties like almond or cashew for a flavor variation.
- Cut into smaller pieces for bite-sized treats perfect for parties or gatherings.
- Store Scotcharoos in the refrigerator for a firmer texture if desired.
- Add a tablespoon of vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture for added depth of flavor.
- Substitute dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for a different taste profile.
- Toast the crispy rice cereal in the oven for a few minutes before mixing for a more robust flavor.
- Double the chocolate and butterscotch topping for an extra thick layer of sweetness.
**Expert Secrets:**
- When pressing the mixture into the pan, use parchment paper or plastic wrap to prevent sticking.
- For a shiny finish on the chocolate topping, add a teaspoon of vegetable oil when melting the chips.
- Allow the Scotcharoos to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, even squares.
- For a marbled effect, swirl the chocolate and butterscotch layers together with a knife before cooling.
- Experiment with adding a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the chocolate mixture for a coffee-flavored twist.
- For a nut-free version, substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter and omit any nut toppings.
- Make mini Scotcharoo bites by pressing the mixture into a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners.
- Get creative with toppings like shredded coconut, crushed pretzels, or caramel drizzle for a unique twist.
- For a more indulgent treat, sprinkle chopped candy bars or mini marshmallows over the chocolate layer before cooling.
- Customize the recipe by mixing in dried fruits like chopped apricots or raisins for a fruity burst of flavor.
