Scotcheroos

### Instructions:

#### 1. **Prepare the Pan**:
Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal. This will prevent the Scotcheroos from sticking to the pan when they set.

#### 2. **Make the Peanut Butter Mixture**:
In a large saucepan, combine the sugar and corn syrup over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture begins to boil. Once it’s bubbling, remove it from the heat and immediately stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract. Stir until the peanut butter is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.

#### 3. **Combine with Cereal**:
Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the peanut butter mixture, stirring gently until all the cereal is evenly coated. Be careful not to crush the cereal too much—it should stay crispy to give the bars their satisfying crunch.

#### 4. **Press into the Pan**:
Transfer the cereal mixture to the prepared baking dish and gently press it down into an even layer using a spatula or your hands. Try to make sure it’s compact but not too tightly pressed, as you want to maintain a bit of air in the bars for texture.

#### 5. **Melt the Topping**:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips and butterscotch chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chips are completely melted and the mixture is smooth. This can also be done in a double boiler if you prefer.

#### 6. **Spread the Topping**:
Once the chocolate and butterscotch chips are melted and smooth, pour the mixture over the pressed cereal bars. Use a spatula to spread the chocolate evenly over the surface, making sure every corner is covered.

#### 7. **Let the Scotcheroos Set**:
Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer them to the refrigerator for an additional 1-2 hours to fully set. The chocolate topping should be firm, and the bars should hold together nicely.

#### 8. **Slice and Serve**:
Once the Scotcheroos are completely set, cut them into squares or rectangles. Serve and enjoy the crunchy, sweet, and peanut-buttery goodness!

### Tips for Perfect Scotcheroos:

– **Don’t Overheat the Peanut Butter Mixture**: When heating the sugar and corn syrup, make sure to remove it from the heat once it begins to bubble to avoid burning the sugar or making the bars too hard.
– **Use Fresh Cereal**: For the best texture, use fresh Rice Krispies or any crispy rice cereal. Stale cereal won’t hold up as well in the bars.
– **Customize the Chocolate**: You can experiment with different chocolate types like milk chocolate or white chocolate chips, depending on your preference. A mix of dark chocolate and peanut butter chips is also delicious if you like a more intense chocolate flavor.
– **Make Ahead**: Scotcheroos store well in an airtight container for up to a week, making them perfect for preparing ahead of time for parties, picnics, or snacking throughout the week.
– **Add Toppings**: Feel free to add toppings like chopped nuts, sprinkles, or a drizzle of extra melted chocolate for a fun and personalized touch.

### Why Scotcheroos Are a Must-Try:

Scotcheroos are the ideal treat for anyone who loves the combination of peanut butter and chocolate. The crispy Rice Krispies give these bars a satisfying crunch, while the rich peanut butter and gooey chocolate topping create a perfect harmony of flavors. They’re easy to make, require no baking, and can be whipped up in just under an hour.

Whether you’re craving something sweet for yourself or need a dessert to bring to your next gathering, Scotcheroos are sure to please. These no-bake bars are perfect for kids and adults alike, offering a balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy in every bite.

### Conclusion:

**Scotcheroos** are the ultimate dessert for peanut butter lovers and anyone with a sweet tooth. With their simple ingredients, quick preparation, and irresistible combination of flavors, these bars are guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Easy to make and impossible to resist, Scotcheroos are the perfect treat for any occasion—from casual snacking to special celebrations. Try them today and enjoy the sweet, peanut-buttery goodness!