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Crispy Scotcharoo Popcorn Treats Recipe

crispy Scotcharoo popcorn treats recipe - featured image

A quick and easy homemade snack combining crispy popcorn, roasted peanuts, chewy butterscotch, and a smooth chocolate drizzle for a perfect balance of salty and sweet.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups freshly popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup unpopped kernels; avoid microwave popcorn for best texture)
  • 1 cup roasted peanuts
  • 1 cup butterscotch chips
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
  • 1/4 cup light corn syrup (optional)
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Pop the popcorn using an air popper or stovetop method to yield about 6 cups. Remove any unpopped kernels and transfer popcorn to a large mixing bowl. Add 1 cup roasted peanuts and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter. Stir in 1 cup packed light brown sugar and 1/4 cup light corn syrup. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly, and cook for 1 minute without stirring. Remove from heat.
  3. Quickly stir in 1 cup creamy peanut butter and 1 cup butterscotch chips until melted and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Pour the warm butterscotch mixture over the popcorn and peanuts. Gently toss with a spatula until evenly coated, being careful not to crush the popcorn.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Press gently into an even 1-inch thick layer. Let cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes until firm.
  6. Melt 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second bursts, stirring between, or use a double boiler until smooth.
  7. Drizzle the melted chocolate evenly over the cooled popcorn treats. Use a spoon or fork to create swirls. Let chocolate set for 15-20 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate to speed up.
  8. Cut into squares or rectangles. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Notes

Use freshly popped popcorn for best crunch. Do not overcook the sugar mixture to keep treats chewy. Press mixture gently to maintain light crunch. Chocolate drizzle adds flavor and presentation flair. For nut-free, substitute peanuts and peanut butter with seeds and seed butter. Store airtight at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Nutrition

Keywords: Scotcharoo, popcorn treats, peanut butter, butterscotch, chocolate drizzle, homemade snack, easy recipe, crispy snack