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Butterscotch Bars

These chewy butterscotch bars are a nostalgic treat filled with rich flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 24 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter Use a brand like Jif or Skippy for a smooth texture.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Sweetness is key here!
  • 1 large egg, room temperature Bringing it to room temperature helps it mix better.
  • 1 package mini marshmallows (10 ounces) Look for fresh marshmallows for the best puff.
Topping Ingredients
  • 1 package butterscotch chips (11 ounces) Go for Ghirardelli or Nestle for great flavor.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (1/2 stick) Softened, not melted, for better mixing.
  • 2/3 cup light corn syrup Adds sweetness and helps with the chewy texture.
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract Pure extract makes a world of difference.
Cereal Base
  • 5 cups crispy rice cereal, like Rice Krispies Make sure it’s fresh; stale cereal won’t give that crunch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some to hang over the edges for easy removal later.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and the room temperature egg. Stir until well combined and smooth.
  4. Spread the mixture evenly into the lined baking dish and bake for 14-15 minutes.
  5. Sprinkle mini marshmallows over the top and return to the oven for another 7 minutes until the marshmallows are puffy and just starting to brown.
Butterscotch Mixture
  1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt together butterscotch chips, unsalted butter, light corn syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  2. Remove the pot from heat and gently fold in crispy rice cereal until evenly coated.
Assembly and Cooling
  1. Pour the cereal mixture over the marshmallow layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  2. Press down lightly to make it stick and let it cool at room temperature for 8-12 hours.
  3. Once cool and set, lift the bars out using the parchment paper, cut into squares, and serve.

Notes

Keep these Butterscotch Bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for about a week.