Chex Scotcheroos Recipe

The Perfect Chex Scotcheroos Recipe: Sweet & Crunchy Bliss

Sticky chex scotcheroos have become my secret weapon for instant dessert happiness.

Sweet kernels of corn and crispy rice cereal create an irresistible base for this nostalgic treat.

Chocolate and butterscotch chips melt into a glossy coating that makes every bite pure magic.

Peanut butter adds unexpected richness to the classic no-bake dessert.

Childhood memories rush back with each sugary, crunchy square.

Delightful textures and flavors combine in a way that guarantees smiles around the table.

Make these and watch everyone ask for seconds.

Why Chex Scotcheroos Win Hearts

  • Quick and Convenient: Create a delicious dessert in just a few easy steps, perfect for busy families or spontaneous sweet cravings without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Combines the irresistible crunch of Chex cereal with rich chocolate and butterscotch, making it a guaranteed hit at parties, potlucks, and family gatherings.
  • No-Bake Delight: Enjoy a scrumptious dessert without turning on the oven, ideal for warm days or when you want a hassle-free sweet treat that doesn't require baking expertise.

Chex Scotcheroos Ingredient List

Base Ingredients:
  • Chex Cereal: A crispy rice cereal that forms the crunchy foundation of the dessert.
  • Peanut Butter: Creamy and rich, adding a nutty flavor to the recipe.
  • Light Corn Syrup: Provides sweetness and helps bind the ingredients.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds extra sweetness to the mixture.
Chocolate Topping:
  • Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips, Butterscotch Chips: A smooth, melted combination that creates a delicious chocolate layer.
Additional Flavor Enhancers:
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, sweet flavor to the dessert.
  • Cooking Spray or Butter: Helps prevent the mixture from sticking to the baking dish.

How to Prepare Chex Scotcheroos

Step 1: Prepare Chex Cereal Base

Grab a spacious mixing bowl and pour in the Chex cereal.

Set the bowl aside, ready for the sweet mixture that will transform these crispy flakes into a delightful treat.

Step 2: Create Sticky Syrup Blend

In a saucepan, combine light corn syrup and granulated sugar over medium heat.

Stir the mixture continuously, watching it bubble and blend until it reaches a rolling boil.

Step 3: Incorporate Creamy Peanut Butter

Remove the saucepan from heat and swirl in:
  • Creamy peanut butter
  • Vanilla extract

Stir until the mixture becomes silky smooth and fully integrated.

Step 4: Coat Chex Cereal

Pour the warm peanut butter concoction over the waiting Chex cereal.

Gently fold and mix, ensuring every single cereal piece gets a generous coating of the luscious mixture.

Step 5: Press Into Baking Dish

Transfer the coated cereal into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Use your hands or a spatula to press the mixture firmly and evenly across the entire surface.

Step 6: Melt Chocolate Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine:
  • Semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • Butterscotch chips

Melt the chips in 30-second bursts, stirring between each interval until the mixture becomes completely smooth and glossy.

Step 7: Spread Chocolate Layer

Pour the melted chocolate and butterscotch mixture over the cereal base.

Use a spatula to spread the topping evenly, creating a delectable chocolate blanket.

Step 8: Allow to Set

Let the Chex Scotcheroos rest at room temperature for 1-2 hours.

The chocolate topping will gradually firm up, creating the perfect texture.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Once the chocolate has set, slice the Scotcheroos into bars or squares.

Serve and enjoy this irresistible sweet treat that combines crunch, chocolate, and pure deliciousness.

Tips to Improve Chex Scotcheroos

  • Lightly grease your hands with cooking spray or butter when pressing the cereal mixture into the pan to avoid sticking and ensure an even layer.
  • Use a double boiler or microwave at 50% power to melt chocolate chips more gently, preventing burning and achieving a smoother consistency.
  • Refrigerate the Scotcheroos for 30 minutes to speed up the setting process and create a firmer chocolate topping.
  • Swap peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter for nut-free options, or use different chip combinations like milk chocolate and white chocolate.
  • Store Scotcheroos in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness and a slightly firmer texture.

Best Way to Store Chex Scotcheroos

  • Store covered in an airtight container for up to 5 days, placing wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
  • Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe container for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before enjoying.
  • Keep bars in sealed container away from direct sunlight and heat, maintaining texture and flavor for 2-3 days.
  • Place a piece of bread in the container to absorb excess moisture and keep bars crisp and fresh.

Perfect Pairings for Chex Scotcheroos

  • Savor Sweet Sips: Complementary Beverage Pairings
  • Brew Creamy Milk Companions: Cold, rich milk creates a dreamy counterpoint to the sweet, nutty chocolate and butterscotch layers, neutralizing the dessert's intense sweetness.
  • Craft Coffee Contrast: Bold espresso or smooth cappuccino cuts through the rich chocolate, providing a sophisticated balance that enhances the Scotcheroos' complex flavor profile.
  • Mix Caramel Smoothie Fusion: Homemade caramel smoothie with vanilla undertones mirrors the butterscotch chips, creating a harmonious taste experience that elevates the dessert's decadence.
  • Blend Nutty Chai Complement: Warm, spiced chai latte with its creamy texture and subtle nutmeg notes beautifully echoes the peanut butter and chocolate elements, offering a comforting and indulgent pairing.

New Ways Chex Scotcheroos

  • Gluten-Free Scotcheroos: Replace Chex cereal with gluten-free rice cereal or certified gluten-free Chex for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
  • Vegan Chocolate Version: Swap peanut butter with almond butter, use dairy-free chocolate chips, replace corn syrup with brown rice syrup, and choose plant-based sweeteners for a completely vegan treat.
  • Nut-Free Alternative: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter for individuals with nut allergies, maintaining the same creamy texture and sweet flavor profile.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Use sugar-free chocolate chips, replace corn syrup with sugar-free syrup, and incorporate stevia or monk fruit sweetener to reduce overall sugar content while preserving the classic Scotcheroos taste.

FAQs

  • What makes Chex Scotcheroos different from traditional Rice Krispie Treats?

Chex Scotcheroos use Chex cereal instead of Rice Krispies, creating a slightly different texture and nutty flavor from the peanut butter mixture. The chocolate and butterscotch topping also sets these treats apart from classic marshmallow-based bars.

  • Can I use a different type of cereal if I don't have Chex?

While Chex works best, you can substitute with other sturdy cereals like Rice Krispies or corn flakes. Just ensure the cereal can hold up to the sticky peanut butter mixture without getting too soggy.

  • Is it necessary to use both chocolate and butterscotch chips?

The combination of chocolate and butterscotch chips creates a unique flavor profile, but you can use just chocolate chips if you prefer. Using both adds a rich, complex taste that makes these treats extra special.

  • How can I prevent the bars from becoming too sticky?

Let the bars cool completely at room temperature and ensure the chocolate topping is fully set before cutting. If they’re still sticky, you can briefly refrigerate them to help firm up the chocolate layer.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Chex Scotcheroos Recipe

Chex Scotcheroos Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 39 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Chex scotcheroos deliver a delightful blend of crispy cereal, smooth peanut butter, and chocolate magic. Sweet layers of nostalgia create a midwest classic that brings pure happiness right to your dessert plate.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 6 cups Chex cereal (rice or corn)
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light corn syrup

Chips and Flavoring:

  • 1 1/2 cups (255 grams) semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 1/2 cups (255 grams) butterscotch chips

Binding and Flavoring:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare a spacious mixing bowl and gently cascade the crisp Chex cereal into it, creating a golden foundation for the treat.
  2. Select a medium saucepan and combine light corn syrup with granulated sugar, stirring continuously as the mixture transforms and bubbles with enthusiasm.
  3. Once boiling, immediately remove the saucepan from heat and introduce creamy peanut butter and fragrant vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture achieves a silky, uniform consistency.
  4. Tenderly pour the glossy peanut butter blend over the waiting cereal, using a gentle folding technique to ensure each crisp piece becomes thoroughly coated.
  5. Transfer the cereal mixture into a prepared baking dish, using careful pressure to create an even, compact layer that will serve as the dessert’s robust base.
  6. Employ a microwave-safe vessel to melt semi-sweet chocolate chips and butterscotch chips, using short intervals and intermittent stirring to prevent scorching.
  7. Gracefully drizzle and spread the molten chocolate-butterscotch mixture across the cereal foundation, ensuring a smooth, even coverage.
  8. Allow the confection to rest and solidify at ambient temperature, permitting the chocolate topping to set into a firm, glossy shell over approximately 1-2 hours.
  9. Once completely cooled and stabilized, slice the creation into individual bars or squares, ready to delight eager taste buds.

Notes

  • Choose crisp, fresh Chex cereal for the best texture and crunch in your Scotcheroos.
  • Use a non-stick spatula or greased hands to press the cereal mixture evenly without sticking.
  • Melt chocolate chips carefully to prevent burning by using short microwave intervals and stirring frequently.
  • For a gluten-free version, confirm your Chex cereal is certified gluten-free and use alternative nut butters if needed.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 202
  • Sugar: 17 g
  • Sodium: 37 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
Angelina Wiles

Angelina Wiles

Content Editor & Culinary Enthusiast

Expertise

Food Writing and Editing, Vegetarian and Vegan Cuisine, Baking and Pastry Arts, Sustainable Cooking Practices​

Education

Portland Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Emphasis on sustainable cooking practices, vegetarian cuisine, and food writing.​

​Oregon Culinary Institute
Diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts
Focus: Specialized training in artisanal baking, pastry techniques, and dessert presentation.


Angelina’s love for cooking started with handwritten family recipes and weekend trips to farmers’ markets around Portland. She followed her passion with a Certificate in Culinary Arts from Portland Community College, then perfected her sweet side with a Diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts at Oregon Culinary Institute.
Angelina believes recipes should feel like a conversation, not a science project. She’s all about helping readers trust themselves in the kitchen with simple steps, fresh ideas, and easy twists on classic meals.
When she’s not editing recipes, she’s baking bread, sipping coffee, or getting inspired by the changing seasons.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star