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Imagine biting into a chewy, chocolatey, and butterscotchy bar that’s as satisfying as it is wholesome. Healthy Scotcheroos with Honey take a classic treat and give it a nutritious twist, making it perfect for anyone who wants a little indulgence without the guilt. This easy recipe will become your go-to snack for kids, parties, or a midday pick-me-up.
Why Choose Healthy Scotcheroos?
If you’re looking for a dessert that balances sweetness with health benefits, these Scotcheroos are perfect for you. By swapping out processed ingredients for more natural ones, you can enjoy all the flavor without compromising on your nutritional goals. Plus, they’re quick to make and don’t require baking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of everything required for Healthy Scotcheroos with Honey:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Sugar | 1 cup |
Light Corn Syrup | 1 1/3 cups |
Peanut Butter | 1 1/3 cups |
Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
Rice Krispies | 6 cups |
Chocolate Chips | 1 cup |
Butterscotch Chips | 1 cup |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan
Spray a 9 x 13-inch pan with non-stick spray and set it aside. This ensures your bars won’t stick and makes cleanup easier.
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2. Get the Rice Krispies Ready
Pour 6 cups of Rice Krispies into a large mixing bowl. Set this aside while you prepare the wet mixture.
3. Heat Sugar and Corn Syrup
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and light corn syrup. Place the pan over low heat and stir until the mixture is just warm, not hot. Overheating can cause the mixture to harden too quickly.
4. Mix in Peanut Butter and Vanilla
Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
5. Combine with Rice Krispies
Pour the warm mixture over the Rice Krispies. Use a large spatula to mix until every piece is evenly coated.
6. Transfer to Pan
Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly to fill all corners.
7. Prepare the Topping
Combine the chocolate chips and butterscotch chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is melted and smooth.
8. Spread and Cool
Pour the melted topping over the Rice Krispies mixture. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Let it cool and harden completely before cutting into bars.
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 Bar) |
---|---|
Calories | 220 |
Protein | 4g |
Fat | 10g |
Carbohydrates | 30g |
Fiber | 1g |
Sugar | 18g |
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the specific brands and portions used.
Healthier Ingredient Alternatives
If you’re looking to make this recipe even healthier, here are some swaps:
- Honey Instead of Sugar: Replace the sugar with an equal amount of honey for a more natural sweetness.
- Dark Chocolate Chips: Use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for added antioxidants.
- Organic Peanut Butter: Opt for natural peanut butter with no added sugar or hydrogenated oils.
- Brown Rice Cereal: Substitute Rice Krispies with a whole-grain brown rice cereal for more fiber.
Tips for Perfect Scotcheroos
- Avoid Overheating: Keep the sugar and corn syrup mixture warm but not hot to maintain a chewy texture.
- Press Firmly but Gently: Compact the mixture in the pan without crushing the cereal to retain its airy crunch.
- Allow Topping to Set: Be patient while the chocolate hardens to ensure clean, even slices.
- Store Properly: Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions
- For Parties: Cut into smaller, bite-sized squares for easy sharing.
- As a Snack: Pair with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a satisfying treat.
- Dessert Platter: Arrange alongside fruit, cookies, and other bars for a festive display.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
1. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, just ensure you use gluten-free rice cereal and verify that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
2. How do I prevent the bars from sticking to my hands?
Use a piece of parchment paper or lightly buttered hands to press the mixture into the pan.
3. Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter works well and adds a slightly different flavor.
4. What if I don’t have butterscotch chips?
You can use all chocolate chips or replace butterscotch chips with white chocolate chips for a sweeter topping.
5. Can I make these vegan?
Yes! Use vegan chocolate chips, substitute corn syrup with agave, and opt for a plant-based nut butter.
6. How do I cut the bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife and warm it slightly under hot water. Wipe it dry before slicing for clean edges.
Conclusion: Why Healthy Scotcheroos with Honey Should Be Your Next Treat
Healthy Scotcheroos with Honey are the perfect combination of nostalgic flavors and modern nutrition. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and loved by all ages, these bars are a must-try for anyone seeking a sweet yet wholesome indulgence.
Ready to make your own batch? Gather your ingredients today and enjoy this healthy twist on a classic favorite!
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Healthy Scotcheroos with Honey: A Sweet Treat You Can Feel Good About
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 20 bars
Description
Chewy, chocolatey, and irresistibly sweet, these Healthy Scotcheroos with Honey put a wholesome twist on the classic treat. Perfect for snacks, parties, or a guilt-free indulgence, they’re easy to make and packed with natural goodness!
Ingredients
- 1 cup honey
- 1 1/3 cups natural peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 cups puffed rice cereal
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over low heat, warm the honey and peanut butter together. Stir until smooth and just combined—avoid overheating to maintain the mixture’s chewiness.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine with Cereal: Place the puffed rice cereal in a large mixing bowl. Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the cereal and mix until evenly coated.
- Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press it down firmly and evenly using a spatula or lightly buttered hands.
- Make the Topping: Melt the chocolate chips and butterscotch chips together in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring between each until smooth.
- Spread the Topping: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Cool and Set: Let the Scotcheroos cool at room temperature or in the refrigerator until the topping hardens.
- Slice and Serve: Once set, cut into bars and enjoy!
Notes
- For a firmer texture, store the bars in the refrigerator.
- Substitute almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a peanut-free version.
- Use gluten-free puffed rice cereal to make the recipe gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert/Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American