There’s something delightful about whipping up a sweet treat that can bring back memories of childhood snacks while being entirely plant-based. I stumbled upon this recipe for Vegan Scotcheroos during a kitchen experiment gone awry—who knew that a few simple pantry staples could create such a nostalgic delight? With the perfect balance of crunchy brown rice crisps and creamy peanut butter topped with rich melted chocolate, these bars are a harmonious blend of flavor and texture that is sure to impress.
Whether you’re seeking a quick dessert for an upcoming gathering or a tasty pick-me-up during a busy week, these Vegan Scotcheroos come together effortlessly in about 20 minutes, plus a little time in the fridge. They’re not just easy to make; they’re also a crowd-pleaser that proves you don’t need to sacrifice flavor for health. So, let’s dive into this indulgent yet guilt-free recipe that might just become your new go-to sweet fix!
Why are Vegan Scotcheroos a must-try?
Indulgence without compromise: These bars are a guilt-free treat that keeps your sweet tooth satisfied. Quick prep time of just 10 minutes means you’ll have a delicious dessert ready in no time! Perfectly balanced flavors combine the nuttiness of peanut butter with the sweetness of chocolate. Kid-friendly and fun to make, they’re an excellent way to introduce little ones to healthy snacking. Plus, they’re an ideal dessert for gatherings, ensuring everyone can enjoy a bite without the guilt. For a full plant-based experience, check out our tips on how to make the best vegan desserts!
Vegan Scotcheroos Ingredients
For the Bars
• Brown rice syrup – this sticky sweetener binds the ingredients together while providing a rich caramel flavor.
• Coconut sugar – adds subtle sweetness with a hint of caramel; can be substituted with maple sugar for a different taste.
• Creamy peanut butter – provides a creamy texture and delicious nuttiness; feel free to use almond or cashew butter as a tasty alternative.
• Vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
• Salt – balances the sweetness and amplifies the flavors in the bars.
• Brown rice crisps or Special K cereal – creates that classic crunch; for a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free rice crisps.
For the Topping
• Chocolate chips – melt to create a decadent layer on top; dark chocolate chips work great for a richer flavor.
• Creamy peanut butter – mixed with chocolate, it adds a luscious finishing touch to your Vegan Scotcheroos.
These Vegan Scotcheroos are not just delicious; their simple ingredients come together to create a delightful treat that everyone will love!
How to Make Vegan Scotcheroos
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Prepare the pan: Line a rectangular baking dish, preferably 9 x 13 inches, with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze.
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Melt together: In a large pot, combine brown rice syrup and coconut sugar over medium heat. Stir for 2-3 minutes, just until the sugar starts to dissolve. Now, add peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until smooth and well-combined.
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Mix in the cereal: Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the brown rice crisps until all the cereal is evenly coated. Transfer this sticky mixture to the baking dish and press it evenly across the base.
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Melt the chocolate: In a small pot, double boiler, or microwave, melt chocolate chips and creamy peanut butter together. If using the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until melted and smooth.
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Spread the chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate over the cereal base. With a spatula, spread the chocolate into an even layer to cover all the cereal.
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Chill the bars: Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and let the mixture chill for about 1 hour or until the chocolate has fully set.
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Slice and enjoy: Once set, take the bars out of the fridge, slice into 16 squares, and indulge in your delicious Vegan Scotcheroos!
Optional: Drizzle some melted chocolate on top for an extra touch of decadence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Scotcheroos
Room Temperature: Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days; they’ll remain delicious and chewy!
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep Vegan Scotcheroos in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just make sure they’re covered to avoid absorbing other flavors.
Freezer: If you want to save them for later, freeze them in a single layer with parchment between layers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying!
Reheating: If you’ve stored them in the fridge or freezer, let the bars come to room temperature, or warm them briefly in the microwave for that just-made flavor.
Expert Tips for Vegan Scotcheroos
• Measure Accurately: Ensure accurate measurements for all ingredients, especially the sticky brown rice syrup, to achieve the perfect consistency in your bars.
• Watch the Heat: When melting the brown rice syrup and coconut sugar, keep the heat low to prevent burning. Stir constantly for even melting.
• Let it Chill: Be patient! Chilling is essential for a clean set of chocolate. Skipping this step may lead to messy bars when slicing.
• Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to mix up the nut butter or chocolate type based on your preferences. Just remember, it’s all about achieving the best Vegan Scotcheroos for your taste!
• Use Parchment Paper: Lining the baking dish with parchment paper is key to easy removal and clean-up. Don’t skip this step!
• Storage Tips: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their freshness and avoid melting.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Scotcheroos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sticky cereal base and spread it into the baking dish up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. The chocolate topping can also be melted and poured on top 1-2 hours before serving to ensure it sets properly. When ready to indulge, slice your Vegan Scotcheroos into squares and place them back in the refrigerator for a few minutes to firm up again. This way, you’ll have a delightful treat ready for busy weeknights or surprise guests, just as delicious as when freshly made!
Vegan Scotcheroos Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make these bars your own with some delightful twists!
- Nut-Free: Swap creamy peanut butter for sunflower seed butter to make it allergy-friendly.
- Grain-Free: Use puffed quinoa or buckwheat instead of brown rice crisps for a different crunch.
- Richer Chocolate: Opt for dark chocolate chips or a combination of dark and milk chocolate for a richer topping.
- Coconut Twist: Add flaked coconut to the cereal mixture for a tropical flavor burst and chewy texture.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the chocolate layer for a surprising heat!
- Fruit Addition: Toss in some chopped dried fruits like raisins or cranberries to introduce a sweet and tangy contrast.
- Maple Sweetening: Replace brown rice syrup with maple syrup for a unique flavor that pairs beautifully with the peanut butter.
- Protein Boost: Mix in a scoop of your favorite plant-based protein powder to enhance the nutritional profile of your treats.
Feel the freedom to explore and experiment! Each variation could turn your Vegan Scotcheroos into a new favorite snack.
What to Serve with Vegan Scotcheroos?
Creating a delightful spread is all about balancing flavors and textures, and these sweet bars are just the beginning.
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Coconut Chia Pudding: This creamy, refreshing pudding adds a delightful contrast to the chewy texture of the bars. Top it with fresh fruit for a splash of color!
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Fruit Salad Medley: A vibrant fruit salad filled with seasonal fruits not only adds freshness but also brings a burst of sweetness that complements the richness of the Vegan Scotcheroos.
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Nutty Granola: Serve some homemade granola beside these treats for a crunchy, healthy addition. Its nuttiness will harmonize beautifully with the peanut butter flavor.
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Almond Milk Latte: If you’re in the mood for a cozy drink, an almond milk latte pairs superbly, offering a warm, nutty note against the chocolatey sweetness of the bars.
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Coconut Milk Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert experience, why not offer a scoop of creamy coconut milk ice cream? Its richness makes for a dreamy combo with your Vegan Scotcheroos.
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Matcha Green Tea: Bright, earthy matcha offers a striking balance to the sweetness of the bars. The slight bitterness of the tea can create a sophisticated touch to your dessert experience.
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Chocolate-Dipped Fruits: Elevate your dessert game by serving chocolate-dipped strawberries or bananas, echoing that delicious chocolate layer of the Vegan Scotcheroos and adding a fruity twist.
Vegan Scotcheroos Recipe FAQs
What type of brown rice syrup should I use for Vegan Scotcheroos?
I recommend using a light and mild brown rice syrup for this recipe, as it helps to bind the ingredients together without overpowering the flavors. Look for organic varieties if possible to ensure you’re using the highest quality.
How should I store leftover Vegan Scotcheroos?
To keep your bars fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week—just make sure they’re well covered to avoid absorbing other flavors.
Can I freeze Vegan Scotcheroos?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the bars in parchment paper and stack them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
What if my Vegan Scotcheroos don’t set properly?
If your bars are still sticky after chilling, it might be due to not allowing them enough time in the refrigerator or having not mixed the ingredients well enough. To troubleshoot, return the dish to the fridge for an additional hour. For a firmer texture next time, make sure to accurately measure the ingredients, especially the brown rice syrup.
Can I use alternative ingredients for allergies in Vegan Scotcheroos?
Yes! If you or anyone enjoying these treats has allergies, you can easily customize the recipe. For nut allergies, try sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of peanut butter. For gluten-free options, ensure you use certified gluten-free rice crisps. Enjoy experimenting to create a guilt-free sweet treat that fits your dietary needs!
How do I ensure my chocolate topping is smooth and melted perfectly?
Melt chocolate chips and peanut butter together using a double boiler for best results, as this method gently heats them without burning. If using the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval until fully melted and smooth. Take your time with this step for a delicious finish!
Indulge in Vegan Scotcheroos: A Guilt-Free Sweet Treat!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Line a rectangular baking dish with parchment paper.
- Combine brown rice syrup and coconut sugar in a large pot over medium heat. Stir until the sugar starts to dissolve.
- Add peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in brown rice crisps until coated. Press into baking dish.
- Melt chocolate chips and creamy peanut butter together. Pour over the cereal base and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate for about 1 hour until the chocolate has set.
- Slice into squares and enjoy your Vegan Scotcheroos.