Easy No-Bake Scotcheroo Pinwheels: A Festive Twist on a Classic Treat
Scotcheroos! This delightful name perfectly captures the joy these treats bring. And our Scotcheroo Pinwheels take that joy a step further, combining the beloved flavors of butterscotch, creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and crispy rice cereal – all the elements of a classic Scotcheroo – into an irresistibly beautiful, swirled pinwheel.
The holiday season is truly upon us, and with it comes the wonderful tradition of sharing festive treats! This unique Scotcheroo recipe is an absolute must-add to your holiday baking (or rather, no-baking!) list this year. It offers a fresh, fun, and visually stunning spin on the timeless classic. These no-bake dessert pinwheels are not only incredibly easy to prepare but also exceptionally versatile, making them perfect for holiday cookie exchanges, family potlucks, and as a standout addition to your elegant holiday buffet spread. Their vibrant swirled appearance and irresistible taste guarantee they’ll be a conversation starter at any gathering.
Whether you prefer to spell it “scotcharoos” or “scotcheroos,” one thing is undeniably clear: this treat spells pure deliciousness. It’s a sweet, no-bake confection predominantly defined by its namesake ingredient – butterscotch, expertly blended with peanut butter and crispy cereal. The original Scotcheroo recipe, a cherished American delight, first graced the back of Rice Krispies boxes shortly after World War II. Since its humble beginnings, it has captivated generations, becoming a nostalgic comfort food and a staple in many households, especially during celebratory times. Our pinwheel variation offers a new way to experience this cherished piece of culinary history.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE SCOTCHEROO PINWHEELS
These Scotcheroo Pinwheels offer a delightful and innovative twist on traditional Scotcheroo bars, transforming a beloved classic into a truly festive and eye-catching treat, especially ideal for the holidays. While they share a similar satisfying crunch with classic rice crispy treats, these pinwheels boast a significantly richer and more complex flavor profile. This richness comes from the harmonious blend of peanut butter, butterscotch, and chocolate, heightened by the absence of the typically sugary sweet marshmallows found in other crispy treats. This means you get pure, unadulterated flavor in every bite. Best of all, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring just six simple ingredients and no baking whatsoever – a huge bonus during busy holiday seasons. Their unique pinwheel shape not only makes them visually appealing but also ensures that each bite delivers a perfect balance of all the delicious components. Your guests will undoubtedly adore them, and you can expect constant requests for the recipe!
If you’re already a fan of the delightful combination of flavors and textures in these Rice Krispies-based Scotcheroos, then you absolutely must explore some of our other fantastic Rice Krispie Treat recipes. We highly recommend trying our Whatchamacallit Bars for another irresistible candy bar-inspired creation, and the adorable Cocoa Krispie Owls, which are perfect for a fun, themed dessert. Each recipe offers a unique spin on the crispy cereal concept, proving just how versatile and delicious these simple ingredients can be.
INGREDIENTS NEEDED FOR SCOTCHEROO PINWHEELS
For the most accurate measurements and step-by-step instructions, please refer to the comprehensive, printable recipe card conveniently located at the very bottom of this post.
- Crispy rice cereal – While various brands exist, Rice Krispies remains my top choice for achieving that perfect, classic crunch and texture that makes Scotcheroos so satisfying. Any similar puffed rice cereal will work, but for authentic results, Rice Krispies delivers every time.
- Sugar – Standard granulated white sugar is essential for this recipe. It dissolves beautifully with the corn syrup to create the foundational sweet binder for your treats, contributing to their delightful chewiness.
- Corn syrup – I strongly recommend using light corn syrup. It helps create a smooth, glossy, and pliable mixture that holds the cereal together perfectly. While dark corn syrup can be used in a pinch, be aware it will impart a slightly darker color and a deeper, more molasses-like flavor to your finished pinwheels.
- Peanut butter – Creamy peanut butter is my preferred choice for its smooth consistency, which blends seamlessly into the warm sugar mixture. However, if you enjoy a little extra texture and a more pronounced nutty flavor, feel free to experiment with chunky peanut butter. For best results, use a classic processed peanut butter rather than natural peanut butter, as the oils in natural varieties can sometimes separate and affect the consistency.
- Chocolate chips – Semi-sweet chocolate chips strike the perfect balance, offering a rich chocolate flavor that complements the sweetness without being overpowering. If you prefer a milder, sweeter chocolate, milk chocolate chips are a delicious alternative. For a unique twist, consider using white chocolate chips for a visually lighter and distinctly different flavor profile.
- Butterscotch chips – These are the star of any Scotcheroo! Butterscotch chips are absolutely non-negotiable for achieving that signature, iconic butterscotch flavor that defines these beloved treats. Their distinct caramel-like, buttery notes are what make Scotcheroos truly special and utterly irresistible.
HOW TO MAKE SCOTCHEROO PINWHEELS RECIPE
Start by preparing your jelly roll pan. Lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking, then line it with a sheet of parchment paper, allowing the paper to overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Lightly butter the parchment paper itself. This crucial step ensures your Scotcheroo mixture won’t stick and can be easily rolled. Set the prepared pan aside.
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and light corn syrup. Heat this mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it just barely comes to a boil. The key is to avoid overcooking the sugar, as this can lead to dry and crumbly bars. As soon as it reaches a gentle boil, immediately remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the peanut butter until it is completely melted and smoothly incorporated into the sugar syrup, creating a rich and glossy binder.
Next, place your crispy rice cereal into a large mixing bowl. Pour the warm peanut butter mixture evenly over the cereal. Using a sturdy spatula or a wooden spoon, gently yet thoroughly stir until all the cereal is well coated with the sticky, sweet peanut butter mixture. Once coated, butter your hands generously to prevent sticking. Then, firmly and evenly press the mixture into the prepared sheet pan. Ensure it’s spread from edge to edge and has a consistent thickness – this even layer is crucial for achieving uniform pinwheels later.
Then, in a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine your chocolate chips and butterscotch chips. Melt them together in 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring well after each interval, until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize. A double boiler method can also be used for a gentler melt.
Carefully pour the warm, smooth melted chocolate and butterscotch mixture directly over the pressed cereal base in the sheet pan. Spread the chocolate evenly across the entire surface of the bars, ensuring every inch is coated for that perfect swirl effect. Allow the Scotcheroos to set at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes. This initial setting time helps the chocolate firm up enough to prevent excessive oozing during the rolling process.
Spread chocolate over the top of the bars. Let the scotcheroos set for about 30 minutes.
Now, it’s time to roll ’em up! Generously butter your hands once more. Starting at one of the longer sides of the pan, begin to carefully roll the Scotcheroo mixture into a large, tight log. Press gently but firmly as you roll to ensure the pinwheel maintains its shape and the layers adhere. Don’t worry if a little bit of chocolate seeps out – that’s perfectly normal and part of the process. Once rolled, let the log set again at room temperature for another 30 minutes, or for a quicker set, you can place it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. This chilling period is vital for the pinwheel to firm up sufficiently for clean slicing.
Finally, once the rolled log is firm and well-set, retrieve it. Using a very sharp knife, carefully slice the log into individual pinwheels of your desired thickness, typically about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. For neat presentation and easy storage, place the Scotcheroo roll-ups in an airtight container, using layers of parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. Store them in the refrigerator to fully set and maintain their shape and freshness.
Note: For the best texture and flavor, you’ll want to pull these delectable pinwheels out of the fridge approximately 30 minutes before serving. This allows them to soften slightly, ensuring they aren’t super hard and are perfectly chewy and enjoyable.
Love Them? Pin Them!
If you’re already smitten with this incredible SCOTCHEROO PINWHEELS recipe and want to keep it handy for future holidays and celebrations, make sure you don’t lose track of it! Head over to Pinterest right now and pin it to your favorite recipe board. It’s the perfect way to save this delicious treat and share it with your friends and family!
Why Make Scotcheroo Pinwheels When You Can Make a Classic Scotcheroo Recipe?
While we wholeheartedly adore a classic pan of Scotcheroos in any form, the moment I encountered the brilliant idea of transforming them into pinwheels, I was utterly captivated! This innovative approach offers a distinctly different and arguably more engaging eating experience. Instead of simply spreading the melted chocolate and butterscotch mixture over the top of the pressed cereal bars, the pinwheel method allows the rich chocolate-butterscotch fusion to be artfully swirled throughout the entire crispy cereal base. This means that with every single bite, you get a delightful combination of all the signature flavors and textures – the crunch of the cereal, the creaminess of the peanut butter, and the luxurious melt of the chocolate and butterscotch. It’s a sensory explosion that truly elevates the Scotcheroo experience, making each piece a mini masterpiece. The visual appeal of the spiral also makes them a standout on any dessert platter, prompting curious guests to ask about this creative variation.
I must give full credit where credit is due for this brilliant no-bake treat concept. The innovative idea and easy recipe come courtesy of Sue from Sue Bee Homemaker, and I am incredibly grateful to her for sharing such an inspiring twist on a beloved classic. Her creativity has truly brought a new dimension to our favorite Scotcheroos!
Freaky Friday: A Festive Cookie Exchange!
Today marks our final Freaky Friday event of the year, and I’m thrilled to say it’s arguably my most anticipated and cherished one yet! This particular iteration of our blog hop is dedicated entirely to a festive virtual cookie exchange, bringing together a delightful collection of holiday-ready recipes.
For those unfamiliar, “Freaky Friday” is a wonderfully engaging, old-fashioned blog hop that I have the pleasure of hosting five times throughout the year. The concept is simple yet exciting: a group of my talented blogger friends and I are secretly assigned another blog from which to cook or bake. The beauty of it lies in the secrecy – we don’t know who has our blog, nor do we know whose blog we’ve been assigned, until the grand reveal day. Then, on a designated Friday, we all simultaneously publish our chosen recipes, creating a wave of culinary inspiration across the web. And that special day is today!
What makes this specific Freaky Friday a little different and extra special from our previous rounds is its dedicated theme: a holiday cookie exchange. This means that every single recipe you discover today, including these incredible Scotcheroo Pinwheels, would be a fantastic and welcome addition to your holiday cookie trays, gift baskets, or simply to enjoy with family and friends throughout the festive season. Get ready to find your new favorite holiday treat!
A Spotlight on Sue Bee Homemaker
For this exciting round of Freaky Friday, I had the absolute pleasure and luck of being assigned to Sue from Sue Bee Homemaker! Sue, a resident of Texas, shares her life with her high school sweetheart (whom she has known since they were both in 3rd grade – how sweet is that?!), their two wonderful sons, and an adorable dog named Theo. It’s quite a coincidence, as I also have a dog named Theo – though I have a sneaking suspicion my Theo, a much larger canine companion, probably outweighs hers by a good 60 pounds! Ha!
Sue embarked on her blogging journey on her 50th birthday, a thoughtful decision as she contemplated what new adventures and passions she wanted to pursue in this exciting phase of her life. And let me tell you, friends, she is absolutely excelling at it! Sue’s blog is a treasure trove of recipes, featuring a fantastic assortment that spans everything from hearty main dishes and decadent desserts to a wide array of breads – her true specialty, particularly sourdough creations. Her dedication and culinary prowess shine through in every post.
More Holiday Recipes from My “To-Try” List
Trying to select just one recipe for this round from the abundant offerings on Sue Bee Homemaker’s blog was genuinely quite a feat. I think I initially narrowed my choices down to at least ten incredible options! However, I found myself continually drawn back to her Scotcheroo Pinwheels. My own children have always been enormous fans of classic Scotcheroos, and I instinctively knew that this pinwheel version would be devoured with enthusiasm. My intuition proved absolutely correct!
The success was almost immediate; my son-in-law even texted me to jokingly confess he was hiding the bag of pinwheels I had sent home with my daughter because they were just too delicious to share. (I’m fairly certain he didn’t actually hide them, but my guess is they were polished off in record time, which speaks volumes about their irresistible quality!) Beyond the pinwheels, several other recipes from Sue’s collection caught my eye and were strong contenders. These included her indulgent Homemade Turtle Candy, the wonderfully fudgy Brownie Crinkle Cookies, and her bright and zesty Lemon Sugar Cookies. I am also eagerly anticipating the opportunity to try her delightful homemade eggnog recipe – it sounds like the perfect festive beverage!
Serving Your Giant Scotcheroo Pinwheels
As you might have noticed, these Scotcheroo bars, when rolled into a log and then sliced, tend to be quite generously sized – and we certainly have no complaints about that! However, if you’re planning to add them to a diverse holiday cookie tray or serve them as part of a larger dessert spread, consider cutting them into smaller portions. This is an excellent idea for variety and for guests who might prefer a bite-sized treat.
When I recently took a batch of these delicious Scotcheroos to my husband’s office, I realized that to make “more of them to go around” and ensure everyone could enjoy a piece without feeling overwhelmed, quartering each pinwheel was a smart solution. This not only created more individual servings but also made them perfectly pop-able for a casual office setting. Feel free to adjust the size of your slices to best suit your occasion and guests!
FAQS About Scotcheroo Pinwheels
What are Scotcheroos made of? Scotcheroos are a delightful no-bake dessert primarily composed of crispy rice cereal (like Rice Krispies), a sweet, gooey binder made from sugar and corn syrup, rich and creamy peanut butter, and a luscious topping or swirl of melted chocolate chips and butterscotch chips. Unlike traditional Rice Krispie Treats, Scotcheroos are distinct for their absence of marshmallows, which contributes to their unique, denser texture and pronounced butterscotch-peanut butter flavor. The combination of sweet, salty, and crunchy elements makes them incredibly addictive.
Why are my Scotcheroo bars dry? The primary reason Scotcheroo bars might turn out dry and crumbly is typically related to overheating the sugar and corn syrup mixture. When this mixture boils for too long or gets too hot, the sugar can crystallize excessively, leading to a stiff and dry binder that doesn’t properly adhere to the cereal. To prevent this, ensure you only simmer the sugar and corn syrup just long enough for the sugar to fully dissolve and the mixture to warm through, bringing it to barely a bubble. Remove it from the heat immediately at this point. Another potential culprit for dryness can be over-measuring the crispy rice cereal. Too much cereal for the amount of binder will naturally result in a drier bar. When in doubt, you can start with slightly less cereal than the recipe calls for and gradually add more if the mixture seems too wet, until you achieve the desired consistency. Proper measurement and careful attention to the heat are key to perfectly chewy Scotcheroos.
DELICIOUS SUBSTITUTIONS FOR YOUR SCOTCHEROO PINWHEELS
- Rice Krispies – While classic Rice Krispies are excellent, you can easily elevate the chocolate factor by substituting them with Cocoa Krispies. This simple swap will create a wonderfully chocolatey version of Scotcheroos, perfect for ardent chocolate lovers or for adding an extra layer of depth to the flavor profile.
- Corn syrup – The recipe calls for light corn syrup for its neutral flavor and clear color. However, if you only have dark corn syrup on hand, it can certainly be used. Just be mindful that dark corn syrup has a richer, more robust flavor and a darker hue, which will subtly affect both the color and the overall taste of your finished Scotcheroos, adding a touch of molasses-like depth.
- Peanut butter – My recipe uses creamy peanut butter for a smooth, uniform texture. But for those who enjoy a bit of textural contrast and a more intense nutty bite, chunky peanut butter is a fantastic alternative. It introduces delightful little peanut pieces throughout the pinwheels, adding another dimension to the classic flavor.
- Chocolate chips – I personally prefer semi-sweet chocolate chips for their balanced sweetness and deep chocolate flavor. However, if you have a sweeter tooth, milk chocolate chips will also work beautifully, yielding a creamier and milder chocolate taste. For a completely different, non-chocolate rendition, you could substitute white chocolate chips, which would create a striking visual contrast and a sweet, vanilla-infused flavor.
- Sweet & Salty – To truly enhance the flavors and add an irresistible gourmet touch, consider a sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the melted chocolate and butterscotch mixture before it sets. This subtle addition provides a wonderful counterpoint to the sweetness, creating a sophisticated sweet and salty balance that makes these pinwheels even more addictive.
TIPS AND TRICKS FOR PERFECT SCOTCHEROO PINWHEELS
- Optimal Serving Temperature: For the absolute best texture and ease of eating, remember to remove your Scotcheroo Pinwheels from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before you plan to serve them. If served directly from the fridge, they will be quite firm and harder to bite into, whereas a slight warming to room temperature allows them to soften just enough to be perfectly chewy and enjoyable.
- Storage Solutions: To keep your Scotcheroo Pinwheels fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container. They will remain wonderfully edible for up to 5 days at room temperature. If you need to extend their shelf life, they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer-term storage, these bars freeze exceptionally well! Simply place layers of parchment paper between the pinwheels in an airtight, freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them to room temperature before serving to regain their ideal texture.
- Grease Your Tools and Hands: The Scotcheroo mixture is inherently sticky! Always lightly grease your spatula and hands with butter or cooking spray when pressing the mixture into the pan and especially when rolling the log. This simple step will save you a lot of frustration and ensure a smoother process.
- Don’t Overcook the Syrup: As mentioned in the FAQ, this is crucial. Bring the sugar and corn syrup to just a bare boil and immediately remove from heat. Overcooking will lead to a hard, dry, and crumbly final product.
- Even Pressure for Rolling: When pressing the cereal mixture into the pan and rolling it into a log, apply even, firm pressure. This helps create a dense, uniform base and ensures the pinwheels hold their shape well after slicing.
- Sharp Knife for Slicing: Once the log is properly chilled and set, use a very sharp knife to slice your pinwheels. A dull knife will drag and squish the delicate layers. Wiping the blade clean between slices can also help achieve cleaner cuts.
MORE TASTY HOLIDAY RECIPES TO EXPLORE
Beyond these irresistible Scotcheroo Pinwheels, the holiday season is a fantastic time to indulge in a wide array of sweet delights. If you’re looking to expand your festive baking repertoire or simply crave more delicious treats, here are some other fantastic holiday recipes that are sure to impress and satisfy:
- Giant Butterscotch Cookies (pictured above) – These chewy, soft, and crispy cookies are bursting with classic butterscotch flavor and are incredibly easy to whip up, making them a holiday favorite.
- Oreo Bark – A wonderfully simple yet incredibly decadent treat, combining rich chocolate with crunchy Oreo pieces for an effortless crowd-pleaser.
- Chocolate Orange Fudge – A sophisticated and festive fudge with the delightful pairing of rich chocolate and bright, zesty orange.
- Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars – The perfect balance of sweet and salty, these bars feature crunchy pretzels, gooey caramel, and decadent chocolate.
- Graham Cracker Toffee – An easy and addictive confection, transforming simple graham crackers into a buttery, crunchy toffee sensation.
- Aunt Vern’s Sugar Cookies – A timeless classic, these tender sugar cookies are perfect for cutting out festive shapes and decorating for the holidays.
Are you fortunate enough to be invited to a holiday cookie exchange this year? Or perhaps you’re simply looking to introduce some exciting new selections to your cherished holiday dessert trays? Look no further – I have hundreds of inspiring ideas waiting for you! Dive into our extensive categories featuring delightful Cookies, satisfying Bars, delectable Candy, and irresistible Snack Mix recipes, all meticulously curated and ready to become your next festive favorite!
Don’t forget to take some time to explore Sue’s gorgeous website, Sue Bee Homemaker, where you’ll find even more fantastic holiday baking ideas and culinary inspiration. And for a truly comprehensive holiday treat selection, be sure to check out the complete list of all the recipes from our Freaky Friday Holiday Cookie Exchange, conveniently located at the bottom of this very post. With 13 unique and delicious recipes to choose from, you’re guaranteed to find something wonderful for everyone!
We encourage you to try this Scotcheroo Pinwheels recipe today. This terrific recipe is more than just a blast from the past; it’s a creative revival that combines nostalgia with novelty, and it will undoubtedly become a huge hit with your family and friends, securing its place as a new holiday tradition!
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Print Recipe
Scotcheroo Pinwheels
Equipment
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Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Nonstick 1-Quart Saucepan with Lid
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12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
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Rubber Spatulas
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15 x 10 x 1-Inch Cookie/Jelly Roll Pan
Ingredients
- 9 cups Rice Krispies
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 1/2 cups light corn syrup
- 1 1/2 cups peanut butter
- 1 12 ounce package semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 1/2 cups)
- 1 12 ounce package butterscotch chips ( 1 1/2 cups)
Instructions
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Grease a jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper. Butter the parchment paper lightly. Set it aside.
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In a medium saucepan, bring sugar and corn syrup to a boil. Remove the mixture from the heat and stir in the peanut butter.
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Add Rice Krispies to a large mixing bowl. Pour the peanut butter mixture over top and stir to combine.
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Press the Rice Krispie mixture evenly into the prepared jelly roll pan. Butter your hands and press it down firmly.
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Melt chocolate chips and butterscotch chips together in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring until smooth.
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Spread chocolate over the Rice Krispie mixture. Let the scotcheroos set for approximately 30 minutes.
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Once again, butter your hands before rolling the pinwheels. Beginning at one side of the pan, roll scotcheroos up into a large log, pressing as you roll. Some chocolate may seep out, but don’t worry!
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Let the pan sit again to set up. You can also place them in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes until they are ready to slice.
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Once the log is set, slice it into approximately 15 pieces. Place in an air-tight container, layering with parchment paper.
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Store in refrigerator to fully set up. Remove for 30 minutes before serving or they will be too firm to eat.
Notes
Nutrition
See all of our 2022 Freaky Friday Holiday Cookie Exchange Recipes
This wonderful event was proudly hosted by – An Affair from the Heart
- An Affair from the Heart – Scotcheroo Pinwheels
- Best Cookie Recipes – Christmas Magic Bars
- Family Around the Table – Snickerdoodle Bars
- Feast + West – Lemon Drop Cookies
- The Foodie Affair – Christmas Oreo Balls
- Fresh April Flours – Hot Cocoa Cookies
- Hostess at Heart – Chocolate Bark
- Kathryn’s Kitchen Blog – Cookies and Cream Cookie Recipe
- Life Currents – Almond Meltaways Cookies
- The Speckled Palate – Snowball Cookies
- Sue Bee Homemaker – Italian Lemon Ricotta Cookies
- Take Two Tapas – Avalanche Cookies
- The Wimpy Vegetarian – Easy Christmas Butter Cookies