Twisted Scotcheroos
235
18
1.30k
Twisted Scotcheroos are a delightful dessert that brings together the sweet, gooey goodness of marshmallows and peanut butter, finished off with luscious chocolate and butterscotch topping. These treats are a nostalgic favorite for many and are perfect for any casual gathering, holiday celebration, or simply to satisfy a sweet tooth on a weeknight! I remember making them with friends on cozy evenings, and the kitchen would instantly fill with delicious aromas that made anticipation palpable. What’s even better? They’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them ideal for bakers of all skill levels.
Why you’ll love this dish
One of the biggest draws of Twisted Scotcheroos is their irresistible combination of flavors. The creamy peanut butter pairs perfectly with the sweetness of mini marshmallows, while the chocolate and butterscotch toppings add an extra layer of richness. And let’s not forget the crunch of the rice cereal that ties everything together!
Not only are these bars a crowd-pleaser, but they are also budget-friendly and quick to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, they can be ready in no time, making them perfect for spontaneous get-togethers or a last-minute dessert for a potluck. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone looking for a quick treat, this recipe fits right into any lifestyle.
“These Twisted Scotcheroos disappeared in minutes at my last family gathering! They were the perfect balance of chewy and crunchy, and everyone was asking for the recipe.” – Happy Baker
Preparing Twisted Scotcheroos
Creating these tasty treats is straightforward and rewarding. First, you will melt together the butter, marshmallows, and peanut butter, which creates a creamy, sweet base. Then, you’ll stir in the crispy rice cereal which not only adds texture but also helps bind everything together. After pressing this mix into your baking dish, the fun begins with the chocolate and butterscotch drizzle, resulting in a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- ¼ cup butter
- 10 oz mini marshmallows (about 5 cups)
- ½ cup peanut butter
- 6 cups rice cereal (Rice Krispies work beautifully)
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup butterscotch chips
- 2 tsp coconut oil, divided
Feel free to experiment with these ingredients as well. For example, almond butter can substitute for peanut butter if you’re seeking a different flavor, or you could use dairy-free chocolate chips for a healthier alternative!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside. This will ensure your Scotcheroos remain intact and easy to cut later.
- Melt the Base: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add in the mini marshmallows and peanut butter. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine with Cereal: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the Rice Krispies until they are evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
- Press into the Pan: Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish. To avoid stickiness, lightly spray your hands or a spatula with nonstick spray while pressing it down evenly.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil in short bursts (20-30 seconds), stirring between each burst until smooth.
- Spread the Chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed cereal mixture, smoothing it out into an even layer.
- Melt the Butterscotch: In another microwave-safe bowl, melt the butterscotch chips with the remaining 1 teaspoon of coconut oil in the same way.
- Drizzle and Swirl: Drizzle the butterscotch over the chocolate in thin zigzags or swirls. Use a toothpick or chopstick to lightly swirl the two together for a marbled effect. Be careful not to overmix!
- Set and Slice: Allow the topping to cool in the fridge for about an hour until completely set. Once set, slice into squares and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
These Twisted Scotcheroos can stand on their own as a delightful dessert or snack. For a fun twist, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa, making them the ultimate treat for a cozy night in. For gatherings, you can plate the squares on a decorative platter, perhaps adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an added flavor contrast.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store your Twisted Scotcheroos, simply keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can also freeze them. Make sure to layer the squares between parchment paper in an airtight container, and they should keep well in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just let them thaw at room temperature.
Extra advice
One crucial tip is to be patient when melting the chocolate and butterscotch. Melting in short bursts and stirring in between prevents scorching, ensuring a smooth, glossy finish. If you’re having trouble getting a smooth drizzle, a tiny splash of additional coconut oil can do wonders to bring it back to life!
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Consider swapping out the semisweet chocolate for dark chocolate or adding a sprinkle of sea salt for an enticing flavor contrast. You could also try mixing in some chopped nuts or M&Ms to introduce another texture and taste. For a seasonal variant, peppermint extract can bring a refreshing twist around the holidays!
Common Questions
Q: How much time should I allocate for preparation?
A: You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation, plus an additional hour for the bars to set in the fridge.
Q: Can I make these Scotcheroos ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! They can be made a day in advance and will stay fresh in an airtight container.
Q: What can I use as a substitute for peanut butter?
A: Sunflower seed butter is a great alternative for those with nut allergies, providing a similar texture without compromising on flavor.
Now that you know all the ins and outs of making Twisted Scotcheroos, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get started. Enjoy the simple pleasure of creating and sharing this crowd-pleasing treat!
Twisted Scotcheroos
Ingredients
Method
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add mini marshmallows and peanut butter, stirring continuously until smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in Rice Krispies until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish, pressing it down evenly.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil in short bursts, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed cereal mixture and smooth it out.
- In another microwave-safe bowl, melt the butterscotch chips with the remaining 1 teaspoon of coconut oil similarly.
- Drizzle butterscotch over the chocolate in zigzags or swirls, using a toothpick to create a marbled effect.
- Allow the topping to cool in the fridge for about an hour until set. Slice into squares and enjoy.
