Chocolate Salted Caramel Scotcheroos

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a Chocolate Salted Caramel Scotcheroo. This treat is a delightful combination of crispy rice cereal, gooey salted caramel, and a luscious layer of chocolate. Perfect for gatherings, parties, or a cozy night in, these bars are a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. With the balance of sweet and salty, they embody everything that makes a dessert utterly irresistible. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delectable dessert in no time!

Why It’s My Go-To

Chocolate Salted Caramel Scotcheroos have earned their spot as a go-to recipe in my kitchen for a multitude of reasons. Firstly, they’re incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal cooking skills and time. The combination of textures—from the crispiness of the rice cereal to the smooth, rich chocolate layer—creates a delightful eating experience. Plus, these bars are always a hit at potlucks and gatherings, making them a perfect treat to share. Whether you’re looking for something to satisfy your sweet tooth or impress your friends, these scotcheroos are the answer!

Gather These Ingredients

To make your own Chocolate Salted Caramel Scotcheroos, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup Karo syrup
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 cup salted caramel chocolate hazelnut spread
• 6 cups crispy rice cereal (plain or cocoa flavored)
• 1 cup salted butter
• 2 tablespoons Karo syrup
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Make sure you have everything ready before you start; it makes the process smoother and more enjoyable!

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before we get cooking, here’s a quick list of what you’ll need to make these scrumptious bars:

• Large saucepan – for melting the ingredients smoothly.
• Mixing spoon or spatula – to combine everything well.
• 9×13-inch baking dish – where you’ll press the mixture.
• Parchment paper – for easy removal and cleanup.
• Microwave-safe bowl – to melt the chocolate chips.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.

Having the right gear will make your Chocolate Salted Caramel Scotcheroos come together effortlessly!

From Start to Finish: Chocolate Salted Caramel Scotcheroos

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get started on making these irresistible bars!

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Begin by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish or lining it with parchment paper. This will ensure that your Chocolate Salted Caramel Scotcheroos come out easily once they’ve set.

Step 2: Melt the Sugars and Syrup

In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of Karo syrup, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of packed light brown sugar. Stir these ingredients together until they’re fully dissolved and begin to boil. This should take about 3-5 minutes.

Step 3: Mix in the Butter and Hazelnut Spread

Once the mixture is boiling, add in 1 cup of salted butter and 1 cup of salted caramel chocolate hazelnut spread. Stir continuously until everything is melted and combined into a smooth mixture.

Step 4: Combine with the Cereal

Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly fold in the 6 cups of crispy rice cereal. Make sure the cereal is evenly coated with the mixture. This step is crucial for the texture of your Chocolate Salted Caramel Scotcheroos.

Step 5: Press into the Baking Dish

Pour the cereal mixture into your prepared baking dish. Using a spatula or your hands (lightly greased with butter or oil), firmly press the mixture into an even layer. It’s important to pack it down well so that the bars hold together once set.

Step 6: Prepare the Chocolate Layer

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 2 cups of semisweet chocolate chips, 2 tablespoons of Karo syrup, and 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.

Step 7: Spread the Chocolate Mixture

Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the pressed cereal layer in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly over the top. For an extra touch, feel free to sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt on top for that perfect sweet-salty combination!

Step 8: Let It Set

Allow your Chocolate Salted Caramel Scotcheroos to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator to set completely for at least 1 hour. This will help the chocolate layer firm up nicely.

Step 9: Cut and Serve

Once set, remove from the refrigerator and lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper. Cut into squares or rectangles, and serve! These treats are sure to impress anyone who tries them.

Flavor-Forward Alternatives

If you’re looking to mix things up or add a personal twist to your Chocolate Salted Caramel Scotcheroos, consider these alternatives:

• Use flavored crispy rice cereal, like cocoa or cinnamon, to enhance the flavor.
• Substitute the semisweet chocolate chips with milk chocolate or dark chocolate for different sweetness levels.
• Add chopped nuts, such as peanuts or almonds, for a crunchy texture.
• Incorporate a layer of peanut butter on top of the cereal before adding the chocolate for a delicious twist.

Feel free to get creative and make these bars your own!

Chef’s Notes

• For a thicker chocolate layer, increase the amount of chocolate chips to 3 cups.
• Ensure that you pack down the cereal mixture firmly; this will help your bars hold their shape when cut.
• If you have leftovers (if that’s even possible), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• For a more indulgent flavor, drizzle extra melted chocolate over the top before serving.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

These Chocolate Salted Caramel Scotcheroos are perfect for freezing! Just wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply remove from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before indulging.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use a different type of cereal?

Absolutely! While crispy rice cereal is traditional, you can experiment with other cereals like cornflakes or even granola for a different texture and flavor.

What can I substitute for salted caramel chocolate hazelnut spread?

If you can’t find salted caramel chocolate hazelnut spread, you can use regular chocolate hazelnut spread and add a tablespoon of caramel sauce to achieve a similar flavor.

How do I ensure my bars are cut cleanly?

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for the best results.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Just ensure that the crispy rice cereal and any other ingredients you use are labeled gluten-free. Most brands of crispy rice cereal are naturally gluten-free.

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Let’s Eat

Now that you have your own batch of Chocolate Salted Caramel Scotcheroos ready, it’s time to dig in! These bars are perfect for sharing with friends or savoring all by yourself. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures, and don’t forget to share your creations with loved ones. Happy baking!