Chex Scotcheroos: The Perfect No-Bake Family Treat
Chex Scotcheroos: The Perfect No-Bake Family Treat
If you’re looking for a treat that brings back warm memories of childhood baking days, Chex Scotcheroos are the answer. These delicious bars have been a staple in my kitchen for years, and they always seem to disappear as quickly as I can make them! They’re the perfect combination of crunchy cereal, creamy peanut butter, and that irresistible topping of chocolate and butterscotch.
What I love most about Chex Scotcheroos is how easy they are to make. You don’t need to turn on the oven, and the entire recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a bake sale, or just because you’ve got a sweet craving, this treat is guaranteed to please everyone.
Plus, with a sweet and salty mix of peanut butter, sugar, chocolate, and butterscotch, it’s the kind of treat that gets better with each bite. Whether you’re indulging with a hot cup of coffee or packing them in a lunchbox, these bars are a little slice of nostalgia and comfort, making them the perfect snack for any time of day.
Chex Scotcheroos Recipe
Ingredients:
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6 cups rice or corn Chex
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1 cup light corn syrup
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1 cup sugar
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1 1/2 cups peanut butter
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2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
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2 cups butterscotch chips
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1/2 cup peanut butter
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1 teaspoon vanilla
Directions:
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Grease a large round bowl and pour the cereal in. Set aside.
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Grease a 9×13 inch pan and set aside.
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In a pan on the stove, combine the corn syrup and sugar. Stir over medium-high heat until it comes to a boil.
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Immediately remove from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of peanut butter. Then, immediately pour this mixture over the cereal and fold it in. Pour into the greased 9×13 pan.
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In a microwaveable 4-cup measuring cup, combine the butterscotch chips, chocolate chips, 1/2 cup of peanut butter, and vanilla. Microwave for 30 seconds at a time.
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Make sure to stir very well after each interval until it is completely melted and smooth. This should take about 1 minute and a half.
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Pour the melted chocolate-butter mixture over the bars. Allow to cool completely at room temperature before cutting.
Why You’ll Love Chex Scotcheroos
These bars are a treat that checks all the boxes: quick, easy, and most importantly, delicious! There’s something about the combination of crunchy Chex cereal, gooey peanut butter, and that decadent chocolate-butterscotch topping that makes these bars irresistible. Each bite is like a little moment of pure bliss, and they’re the perfect snack for all ages.
The best part? You don’t need to be a seasoned baker to make them. This no-bake recipe is simple enough for kids to help with, and the prep time is minimal. Plus, the result is a sweet, crunchy, and oh-so-satisfying treat that’s ready to enjoy in no time.
I remember making these Chex Scotcheroos with my mom when I was younger. It was one of our go-to recipes for bake sales, school parties, or just a fun family treat. We’d spend the afternoon stirring the peanut butter and corn syrup, waiting for the moment we could pour the melted chocolate and butterscotch topping over the cereal base. Those memories still make me smile, and now I love sharing this easy recipe with my own family.
Cooking Tips & Substitutions
While the recipe itself is simple, a few tweaks and tips can make it even better!
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Cereal Options: You can use either rice or corn Chex. Both will work, but rice Chex tends to give a slightly lighter crunch, while corn Chex offers a heartier bite. I love rice Chex for a lighter, airier texture, but the choice is yours!
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Peanut Butter: Smooth peanut butter is the best for these bars, as it combines easily with the sugar and corn syrup mixture. However, if you’re a fan of crunchy peanut butter, feel free to use that for extra texture. Just keep in mind that it will affect the smoothness of the chocolate topping.
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Chocolate & Butterscotch Chips: If you’re not a fan of butterscotch, you can skip it and double the chocolate chips. Alternatively, you can try white chocolate chips for a different twist or even peanut butter chips if you want to amp up the peanut flavor.
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Corn Syrup Substitutes: If you’re looking for a more natural option, you can try substituting the corn syrup with honey or maple syrup. However, it may slightly alter the texture of the bars, making them a little chewier and less firm.
Serving Ideas & When to Enjoy
Chex Scotcheroos are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in so many ways. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve them:
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For Family Gatherings: These bars are perfect for potlucks, picnics, or any gathering. Cut them into small squares to make them easy to share!
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A Sweet Snack: Whether you’re craving a snack at the office or need something to nibble on during a movie night, these bars are a go-to treat.
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In Lunchboxes: Wrap them individually for a quick and easy lunchbox treat that kids and adults alike will enjoy. They also make a great addition to a school bake sale.
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With a Cup of Coffee: There’s nothing better than enjoying a chewy Chex Scotcheroo with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
Storage & Freezing Tips
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Room Temperature: Store your Chex Scotcheroos in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They’ll stay fresh and chewy with that perfect crunch.
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Freezing: If you want to make a batch in advance, Chex Scotcheroos freeze beautifully. Simply wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just let them thaw at room temperature.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of cereal for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While Chex is traditional, you can use other cereals like Crispix or even a mix of cereals. Just make sure the texture holds up to the sticky peanut butter mixture.
Q: Do I need to refrigerate Chex Scotcheroos?
A: No, you don’t need to refrigerate them. They set perfectly at room temperature, and refrigeration could make them too firm. Just store them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for a week.
Q: Can I double this recipe?
A: Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a larger pan, such as a 10×15-inch baking pan. Just make sure you have enough space for the cereal mixture and melted topping.
Q: What should I do if the bars don’t set properly?
A: If your bars don’t set, it’s likely that the corn syrup and sugar mixture wasn’t boiled long enough. Be sure to bring it to a full boil before removing it from the heat, and let it cool slightly before pouring it over the cereal.
