Scotcheroo Truffles are the no-bake answer to your peanut butter and chocolate cravings, blending the iconic Midwestern flavors of classic Scotcheroos into irresistible, poppable bites. These truffles capture all the nostalgia of the original bar—creamy peanut butter, sweet butterscotch, a snap of crisped rice, and a rich chocolate finish—but morph the classic pan treat into elegant, bite-sized confections.
They’re sweet, a little salty, crispy, and gloriously rich, destined to disappear as fast as you can set them on the table.
As holiday gifts, potluck stars, lunchbox treats, or game day sweets, Scotcheroo Truffles go anywhere and please everyone.
You need just a handful of pantry ingredients and absolutely no oven time, making these truffles a true win for busy bakers and last-minute dessert heroes. With easy make-ahead prep, a fun rolling process, and that satisfying dunk in chocolate, they’re as fun to make as they are to eat. If you’re hankering for the classic cereal desserts of childhood with a little grown-up twist, these truffles hit every note with flair.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 cups crisped rice cereal (like Rice Krispies)
- 1/2 cup butterscotch chips, melted
- 1 1/4 cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips (for coating)
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or vegetable shortening (for smoother chocolate)
- Pinch of flaky salt, chopped peanuts, or sprinkles (optional for topping)
The Story and Allure of Scotcheroos
Born from Midwestern kitchens in the 1960s, Scotcheroos were invented as a pan “bar” dessert mixing peanut butter, Rice Krispies, and a rich chocolate-butterscotch topping. They’re sweet, chewy, and a little crisp, becoming a staple of potlucks, bake sales, and kids’ parties for their dead-simple prep and unreasonably addictive taste.
This truffle version takes everything you love about the original—peanutty chew, butterscotchy undertones, chocolate cap—and transforms it into a fancy, portable treat that fits right in with the swishest truffle assortment or most casual snack tray.
Bite-sized Scotcheroos channel childhood nostalgia but add a modern, sharable twist. Mixing up these truffles (and resisting licking the bowl) is half the fun.
No-Bake Step-by-Step: From Pantry to Party Plate
To start, place peanut butter, corn syrup, and sugar in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until mixture is just warm and smoothly combined, but not boiling—usually about 1 to 1 1/2 minutes total.
Add the melted butterscotch chips (melt in a separate small bowl, microwaving in 20-second bursts and stirring until smooth). Stir to blend, then fold in crisped rice cereal. The mixture should become thick and sturdy, holding shape when pressed. Let cool slightly for easier handling.
Line a baking sheet with waxed paper. Using a tablespoon or small scoop, portion mixture and roll into firm 1-inch balls (wet hands or a bit of oil prevents sticking). Place balls on the tray and chill for at least 30 minutes, or freeze for 15 if you’re short on time.
Meanwhile, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) together in the microwave in short bursts or over a double boiler, stirring until smooth and glossy.
Dip each chilled Scotcheroo ball into the chocolate, swirling to coat. Lift out with a fork, letting excess chocolate drip off, then return to the tray. Immediately sprinkle with flaky salt, chopped peanuts, or festive sprinkles, if desired. Let the truffles set at cool room temperature or in the fridge until firm.
Variations and Mix-Ins
The recipe is wide open for personalization. Use dark chocolate in place of milk or semisweet. Add a touch of espresso powder or vanilla to the peanut butter for depth. Mix in chopped roasted peanuts with the cereal for a chunkier bite, or stir melted white chocolate into half the base for a “blonde” version.
For extra butterscotch kick, drizzle finished truffles with melted butterscotch chips, or dip half the truffle in chocolate and the other half in butterscotch. Spice things up with a dash of cinnamon, cayenne, or chili powder in the chocolate for grown-up flair. For gluten-free truffles, be sure to use certified GF crisped rice and butterscotch chips.
To make these treats more elegant, sprinkle with gold or silver sugar before the chocolate sets, or box up minis in mini cupcake papers as homemade candy gifts.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing
Scotcheroo Truffles are true make-ahead wonders. Once molded and dipped, truffles keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks or in the freezer for up to three months. Separate layers with parchment or waxed paper. Thaw in the fridge before serving for the right creamy-crispy bite.
Arrange on platters at room temp for parties, or keep cold for extra crunch—both ways are delightful. These truffles ship well for gifting, too.
Serving and Pairing Ideas
Pile Scotcheroo Truffles high on a dessert tray for game days, birthdays, Christmas, or family picnics. They’re at home alongside brownies, fudge, cookies, or even as a playful addition to a holiday cookie box.
Pair with ice-cold milk, hot cocoa, or strong coffee (the peanut butter–chocolate–coffee combo is heaven). For adult treats, serve with a glass of bourbon or a nightcap liqueur—they’re dreamy alongside sweet, strong drinks.
Hand out in mini cupcake liners as party favors or wedding treats, or for a bake sale, package in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for an irresistible edible gift.
Troubleshooting and FAQs
Why are my truffles crumbly? Be sure the peanut butter and syrup mixture is well combined before adding cereal, and work in batches for thicker mixtures.
Why does my chocolate coating crack? Let the balls warm for a few minutes from the fridge before dipping; super-cold truffles can cause chocolate to seize or crack as it sets.
Can I use natural peanut butter? Yes, but choose a creamy, no-stir kind, as some natural peanut butters can separate and be too oily or dry for the base to come together.
Do I have to use butterscotch chips? For classic flavor, yes—but you can sub in more chocolate, peanut butter chips, or caramel chips if preferred.
What if I don’t have coconut oil? Use shortening, or skip it for a thicker chocolate cap.
Nutrition and Sweet Nostalgia
Scotcheroo Truffles, like any holiday or nostalgia treat, are rich—intended for sharing, savoring, and celebrating. Each bite packs a punch of protein, sweet and salty satisfaction, and a reminder of why classic combos endure.
Enjoy as a small treat, pair with fruit or coffee, and keep these on hand for moments that beg for a little candy magic.
The Final Word
Scotcheroo Truffles bring together everything comforting, fun, and a little bit magical about childhood treats—remade into something sophisticated enough for adults but easy and fast enough for any kitchen, any time. Whether you’re prepping for a party, looking for edible gifts, or just want to relive the best after-school sweets, this no-bake recipe rewards every cook and every craving. Roll, dip, and share the fun—these are bound to become your “can you share the recipe?” standard for years to come.
