Iowa: Scotcheroos

History: Scotcheroos trace their origins back to post World War II in America when cereal companies like Kellogg’s began promoting new ways to use their products in recipes and as boxed cereal gained more popularity they were marketed not just as breakfast foods but as a versatile ingredient’s for snacks and desserts.

Symbolism: This dish symbolizes Iowa’s state values and culture.

Ingredients

For the Base:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 6 cups crisp rice cereal (Rice Krispie)

For the Topping:

• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup butterscotch chips

1. Prepare the Base

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the sugar and corn syrup. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins to bubble.
3. Remove from heat and immediately stir in the peanut butter until fully combined and smooth.
4. Add the crispy rice cereal to the peanut butter mixture and gently fold until the cereal is evenly coated.
5. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands (lightly greased) to flatten it.

2. Make the Topping

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butterscotch chips.
2. Heat in 20-30 second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is melted and smooth.
3. Spread the melted chocolate-butterscotch mixture evenly over the cereal base.