Peanut Butter Butterscotch Bars

Some recipes are just meant to be passed down—and this is one of them. These Peanut Butter Butterscotch Bars are rich, chewy, no-bake delights that come together with just a few pantry staples and a whole lot of flavor. They’re sweet, salty, crunchy, and smooth all in one bite—and they disappear fast!

Whether you need a quick dessert for a potluck, a nostalgic treat to remind you of grandma’s kitchen, or just something to satisfy your peanut butter craving, these bars are the answer. They’re no-fuss, freezer-friendly, and a guaranteed hit with everyone from toddlers to grown-ups.

Why You’ll Love Peanut Butter Butterscotch Bars
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Like licking the spoon as a kid. Or pulling a chilled tray from the fridge and sneaking a bite before it’s set.

No baking required – Just melt, mix, and chill!

Crazy easy to make – Five ingredients and done in 15 minutes.

Sweet + salty perfection – Peanut butter and butterscotch were made for each other.

Perfect for gifting or parties – Cut into bite-sized squares and watch them disappear.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Want to nail this dish on your very first try? Here are some insider secrets…

Don’t overheat the chips – Butterscotch can scorch fast, so melt low and slow.

Use smooth peanut butter for the best texture and mixability.

Chill thoroughly before slicing for the cleanest cuts.

Add a pinch of salt if using unsalted peanut butter to balance the sweetness.

Ingredients
Here’s everything you need for these chewy, irresistible bars:

1. Base & Filling:
   1 cup creamy peanut butter

1 bag (11 oz) butterscotch chips

1/4 cup butter

5–6 cups crispy rice cereal (like Rice Krispies)

Optional: pinch of salt

2. Optional Toppings:
   Melted chocolate drizzle

Chopped peanuts

Sea salt flakes

Crushed pretzels

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece…

1. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Set aside.
2. In a large saucepan over low heat, combine butterscotch chips, peanut butter, and butter. Stir constantly until melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in a pinch of salt (if using). Let it cool for 1–2 minutes.
4. Gently fold in crispy rice cereal, one cup at a time, until evenly coated and well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and press it down evenly using a spatula or clean hands.
6. Optional: Add toppings like melted chocolate drizzle, sea salt, or crushed pretzels for extra flair.
7. Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours or until set. Cut into bars or squares and enjoy!

Texture & Flavor Secrets
These bars strike the perfect balance—chewy from the peanut butter and rice cereal, melty and rich from the butterscotch, with just enough crunch to keep things interesting. They’re sweet but not over-the-top, and that buttery peanut flavor lingers in the best way.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Butterscotch Bars
These bars are the ultimate anytime treat. Serve them:

Chilled, straight from the fridge

As part of a holiday cookie platter

With a cup of hot cocoa or coffee

Topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream (oh yes)

Creative Leftover Transformations
Don’t let leftovers go to waste! You can…

Crumble over ice cream for a peanut-buttery sundae topping.

Chop and mix into trail mix or granola for a fun twist.

Use as a crust for a peanut butter pie or cheesecake.

Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips…

Make it nut-free by using sunflower seed butter or Wowbutter.

Want more texture? Stir in mini marshmallows, oats, or chopped nuts.

Store in layers with parchment to prevent sticking.

Make It a Showstopper (Presentation Ideas)
Want to wow your guests?

Drizzle with melted dark or white chocolate in a crisscross pattern.

Sprinkle crushed peanuts or pretzel dust on top before chilling.

Serve in mini cupcake liners for bite-sized elegance.

FAQ’s

1. Can I freeze these bars?
   Yes! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before eating.
2. Do I have to use crispy rice cereal?
   Nope—Cheerios, cornflakes, or puffed rice all work well too.
3. Can I use chunky peanut butter?
   Sure! It’ll add texture and some nutty crunch.
4. What if I don’t like butterscotch?
   Swap with white chocolate or a mix of semi-sweet chips for a different flavor profile.
5. How long do they last?
   Stored in the fridge, they’re good for up to 1 week (if they last that long!).
6. Can I make them vegan?
   Yes—use plant-based butter and dairy-free butterscotch chips (if available).
7. How do I keep them from getting too hard?
   Don’t pack the cereal too tightly, and don’t over-chill.
8. Are they gluten-free?
   If you use gluten-free cereal and verify chip ingredients—yes!
9. Can I add chocolate chips?
   Absolutely! Add 1/2 cup mini chips after the mixture has cooled slightly so they don’t melt.
10. Can kids help with this recipe?
    Yes! It’s a fun, easy recipe for little hands—just supervise during the melting step.

Conclusion
Peanut Butter Butterscotch Bars are the kind of nostalgic, crave-worthy dessert that checks every box—easy, no-bake, delicious, and ready to impress. Whether you’re whipping them up for a last-minute party, a sweet lunchbox surprise, or a “just because” treat, they deliver every single time. Go ahead—make a batch and taste the magic for yourself.

Print

Watch How to Make Peanut Butter Butterscotch Bars