Scotcharoos Pinwheels

Published: December 20, 2025

by Aileen Reed

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and no baking required, these pinwheels come together quickly.
Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of peanut butter, butterscotch, and chocolate creates an irresistible taste that keeps you coming back for more.
Versatile Treat: Suitable for various occasions like birthdays, picnics, or holiday gatherings. They’re even great for lunchboxes!
Fun Presentation: The pinwheel shape makes these treats visually appealing and perfect for sharing.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Scotcharoos Pinwheels perfectly, having the right tools will help streamline the process. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Dutch oven
Microwaveable bowl
Parchment or wax paper
Spatula or wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Dutch oven: Ideal for evenly heating your ingredients without burning them. It provides enough space to stir the mixture easily.
Microwaveable bowl: Perfect for melting chocolate and butterscotch chips quickly without hassle.
Parchment or wax paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes it easy to roll up your pinwheels without mess.

Ingredients

These scotcharoos pinwheels combine the crispy rice cereal, peanut butter, sugar, and corn syrup for the base and then topped and rolled with melted butterscotch and chocolate.

For the Base

2 cups peanut butter
2 cups corn syrup
2 cups sugar
12 cups crispy rice cereal

For the Topping

1 bag chocolate chips, 12-ounce bag
1 bag butterscotch chips, 12-ounce bag

How to Make Scotcharoos Pinwheels

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a Dutch oven over medium heat, combine the peanut butter, corn syrup, and sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and not at all granular.

Step 2: Add Crispy Rice Cereal

Add the crispy rice cereal four cups at a time. Stir gently to combine until everything is well mixed.

Step 3: Shape the Mixture

Once completely combined, spread out the mixture in three piles on parchment or wax paper. Flatten them into thin rectangles and let cool.

Step 4: Melt Chocolate and Butterscotch Chips

In a microwaveable bowl, heat the chocolate chips and butterscotch chips together in 30-second intervals. Stir after each interval until completely melted and smooth.

Step 5: Assemble Pinwheels

Pour the melted mixture over each of the three peanut butter crispy rice pieces. Spread it out evenly to cover all edges.

Step 6: Roll Up the Mixture

Once cooled slightly, start rolling up from one edge until completely rolled up into a tight log.

Step 7: Slice into Pinwheels

Cut into half to one-inch slices using a sharp knife. Enjoy your delicious Scotcharoos Pinwheels!

How to Serve Scotcharoos Pinwheels

Scotcharoos pinwheels are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a party, a family gathering, or just for a sweet snack, these pinwheels are sure to impress. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Party Platter

Arrange the pinwheels on a large platter for an eye-catching display. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for easy snacking.

Dessert Bar

Set up a dessert bar with Scotcharoos pinwheels alongside other sweet treats like cookies, brownies, and cupcakes. This allows guests to mix and match their favorites.

Kids’ Snack Time

Serve Scotcharoos pinwheels as an after-school snack. They’re fun and easy for kids to eat, making them perfect for energy boosts.

Lunch Box Treat

Include slices of Scotcharoos pinwheels in lunch boxes. They add a sweet touch to school lunches and are great for sharing with friends.

Movie Night Delight

Pair the pinwheels with popcorn and candy during movie nights at home. These sweet bites complement savory snacks perfectly.

Picnic Treats

Pack Scotcharoos pinwheels in your picnic basket. They travel well and provide a tasty dessert option while enjoying the outdoors.

How to Perfect Scotcharoos Pinwheels

Creating the perfect Scotcharoos pinwheels requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

Choose the right peanut butter: Use creamy peanut butter for easier spreading and better texture.
Heat evenly: When melting chocolate and butterscotch chips, do it in short intervals to avoid burning.
Cool completely: Let the mixture cool fully before rolling; this helps maintain shape.
Use parchment paper: This prevents sticking and makes it easier to roll and slice.
Slice gently: Use a sharp knife for clean cuts; this preserves the presentation of each pinwheel.
Experiment with toppings: Try adding sprinkles or crushed nuts before rolling for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Scotcharoos Pinwheels

While Scotcharoos pinwheels shine on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes enhances your dessert spread. Here are some fantastic options:

Fresh Fruit Salad
A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the pinwheels.
Veggie Sticks with Hummus
Crunchy veggies like carrots and cucumbers served with hummus provide a healthy contrast to the rich flavors of the pinwheels.
Cheese Platter
Featuring assorted cheeses offers a savory element that pairs well with the sweetness of Scotcharoos pinwheels.
Mini Sandwiches
Small sandwiches filled with turkey or chicken create a satisfying savory option alongside sweet treats.
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels
The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate provides an enjoyable contrast to the soft texture of the pinwheels.
Trail Mix
A mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit gives guests an option for snacking that complements the flavors without overwhelming them.
Popcorn Bar
Offer different popcorn flavors—sweet, salty, or cheesy—for a fun interactive snack that pairs wonderfully with dessert.
Yogurt Parfaits
Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing side that balances out the indulgent nature of Scotcharoos pinwheels.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your Scotcharoos Pinwheels perfect every time, be aware of these common mistakes.

Boldly skip the cooling time: Not allowing the peanut butter mixture to cool can make rolling difficult. Ensure you give it enough time to set.
Boldly overheat the chocolate: Melting chocolate too quickly can cause it to seize. Use 30-second intervals and stir frequently for a smooth consistency.
Boldly rush the mixing process: Failing to mix thoroughly can lead to uneven distribution of flavors. Stir well until everything is fully combined.
Boldly underestimate cutting technique: Cutting rolls too aggressively may squish them. Use a sharp knife and a gentle sawing motion for clean slices.
Boldly ignore ingredient measurements: Using incorrect amounts can alter texture and taste. Always measure ingredients accurately for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Scotcharoos Pinwheels

Wrap each pinwheel tightly in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer bag.
Can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Scotcharoos Pinwheels

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 15-20 seconds for softening.
Stovetop: Place in a non-stick pan over low heat, flipping gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Scotcharoos Pinwheels that might help you out.

What are Scotcharoos Pinwheels?

Scotcharoos Pinwheels are delicious rolled treats made from crispy rice cereal mixed with peanut butter, sugar, and topped with melted butterscotch and chocolate.

Can I customize my Scotcharoos Pinwheels?

Yes! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or even swap out the butterscotch chips with white chocolate for a different flavor profile.

How do I store leftover Scotcharoos Pinwheels?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them individually wrapped for later enjoyment.

Are Scotcharoos Pinwheels easy to make?

Absolutely! This no-bake recipe is simple and quick, making it great for beginners or as a fun activity with kids.

Final Thoughts

Scotcharoos Pinwheels are not only tasty but also versatile. You can easily customize them based on your preferences or dietary needs. Give this delightful treat a try—you’ll love how easy they are to make and enjoy!

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