If you’re looking for an easy dessert that doesn’t require turning on the oven, these Homemade Chex Scotcheroos are just what you need! Made with crispy Rice Chex cereal, creamy peanut butter, light corn syrup, and sugar, these delicious bars come together with simple ingredients and minimal preparation. The cereal mixture creates a wonderfully crunchy and chewy base that’s packed with sweet peanut butter flavor in every bite.

The best part of these homemade treats is the irresistible chocolate and butterscotch topping. Melted semi-sweet chocolate chips combine with sweet butterscotch chips to create a smooth, rich layer that perfectly complements the peanut butter cereal base. Once the bars have cooled and set, every square delivers a delicious combination of crunchy cereal, creamy peanut butter, and sweet chocolate goodness.

These Homemade Chex Scotcheroos are perfect for almost any occasion, whether you’re preparing treats for a holiday celebration, packing lunchbox snacks, or bringing something special to a family gathering. They’re easy to make ahead, simple to slice into individual portions, and always a crowd-pleaser. With their delicious flavor and no-bake preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your dessert collection.

Why You Will Love This Recipe:

No oven required: Enjoy a delicious homemade dessert without baking.
Simple ingredients: Made with easy-to-find ingredients you may already have in your pantry.
Perfect texture: Crispy Rice Chex cereal pairs beautifully with the chewy peanut butter mixture and smooth topping.
Chocolate and butterscotch goodness: The combination creates an irresistible sweet and rich flavor.
Quick preparation: Just 15 minutes of prep time before letting the bars set.
Great for sharing: Perfect for parties, potlucks, holiday celebrations, and lunchbox treats.
Make-ahead friendly: Prepare them in advance and keep them ready for whenever a sweet craving strikes.

Ingredients:

6 cups Rice Chex cereal
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup light corn syrup
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1½ cups butterscotch chips
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for a smoother topping)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the pan: Line a 9 × 13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Set aside.

2. Add the cereal: Place the Rice Chex cereal in a large mixing bowl.

3. Make the syrup mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the light corn syrup and granulated sugar. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture just begins to simmer. Avoid boiling for too long.

4. Add peanut butter: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Immediately stir in the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined.

5. Coat the cereal: Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the Rice Chex cereal. Gently fold until all the cereal pieces are evenly coated.

6. Transfer to the pan: Spoon the cereal mixture into the prepared baking pan. Using a buttered spatula or lightly greased hands, gently press it into an even layer without crushing the cereal.

7. Prepare the chocolate topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and optional butter. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval until completely melted and smooth.

8. Add the topping: Spread the melted chocolate and butterscotch mixture evenly over the cereal layer.

9. Let them set: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for 1–2 hours, or refrigerate for approximately 30 minutes until the topping is firm.

10. Slice and serve: Cut into 24 squares and enjoy your homemade Chex Scotcheroos!