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    Classic Scotcharoos Recipe

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    Quick and easy, classic Scotcharoos! These chewy bar treats have a peanut butter-rice crispy cereal base and a butterscotch-chocolate topping. A dessert that’s as irresistible as it is simple to make!

    Here’s a retro recipe that stands the test of time – classic Scotcharoos! If you’ve never had them before, they’re like a rice crispy treat made with peanut butter topped with a thin layer of melted chocolate and butterscotch. The recipe was developed in the 1960’s, and it was printed on the backs of cereal boxes. While you’ll no longer find it on your box of crispy rice cereal, you will find it right here. These bars are known for being quick and easy. My husband loves them, and the entire recipe from start to finish takes about 30 minutes to make.

    The original recipe is attributed to Kellogg’s – which makes complete sense because they are the company behind Rice Krispies cereal. Like the ubiquitous, marshmallowy Rice Krispies Treats recipe, Scotcharoos were a promotional effort to inspire new and creative uses for the cereal. I’m not sure why they’re not as popular as original Krispies Treats – I think they’re better!
    Easy as these are to make, there are a couple of important things to remember while preparing them. Let’s get into it.

    Peanut Butter Coating
    Into a medium saucepan, place brown sugar, corn syrup, peanut butter, and a little unsalted butter. Cook over medium heat until melted. Important thing #1: DO NOT BOIL. Stir everything together as it melts. When it all looks smooth, cook until bubbles start simmering around the edge of the saucepan, then remove it. You can see this action in the video just above the recipe card. Stir in vanilla extract and salt.
    If you’re one of those people who can’t stand the thought of using corn syrup in any recipe, then there are some alternatives. However, these subs will change the flavor and texture slightly. Honey, golden syrup, and brown rice syrup could all work as a binder and sweetener here. Light corn syrup – although much maligned – is a natural syrup from corn and a useful ingredient in baking, pastry, and candy-making. I use it when appropriate – classic Scotcharoos use corn syrup for that perfect chew.

    Coat the Cereal
    Place 6 cups of crispy rice cereal in your largest mixing bowl. Then, pour in the melted peanut butter mixture. Mix well, turning the cereal over repeatedly with a rubber spatula to coat all of the cereal pieces.

    Into a 13×9 Pan
    Line a 13×9-inch pan with foil or parchment paper, and pour in the coated cereal. Important thing #2: PACK LIGHTLY, NOT TIGHTLY. Spread the cereal evenly then tamp it down with the back of a rubber spatula. Don’t pack it down under flat palms. This will compress the cereal and it will lose its airy puffed texture. It’s also a little harder to remove from the pan once set – a light touch is needed here!

    Butterscotch Swirl
    To swirl, or not to swirl? Well, that’s totally up to you. The OG ‘back of the box’ recipe instructs a simple melting of both chocolate chips and butterscotch chips stirred together. This is the easiest way to go. You’ll have what looks like a chocolate layer on top, with surprise butterscotch flavor incorporated.
    But if you’d like to add a little visual pizzazz, melt the chips separately (the microwave is good for this). Mix about 1/3 of the melted butterscotch into the melted chocolate; spread onto the peanut butter cereal layer. Then transfer the remaining butterscotch chips to a piping bag or a zip top bag. Snip a hole in the end and drizzle on the melted butterscotch. Swirl together using a skewer or butter knife. (See video for this action.)

    Chill Until Set
    Refrigerate the bars for about 30 minutes, or until the top is no longer shiny. It should be matte and the solid block of cereal should lift easily from the pan.

    Cut into 24 squares using a large, sharp chef’s knife. In between each slice, I warmed my knife in a glass of hot water, wiped dry, then cut. It’s an extra step but it makes for clean edges on the Scotcharoos.

    I can’t believe it’s taken me so long to post these here! The name alone conjures a lot of nostalgic feelings – perhaps most for those in the Midwest, where this recipe was – and remains – at its peak popularity. For some reason, they were not as popular in the south, and as a southerner (eyeing all that peanut butter) that surprises me. Enjoy!

    Related recipe: Salty-Sweet Peanut Butter Marshmallow Pretzel Treats

    Scotcharoos Recipe

    Heather Baird

    This quick and easy dessert bar recipe is nostalgic favorite. Created in the 1960’s by Kellogg’s, it has remained a favorite for decades. Made with crisp rice cereal, peanut butter, chocolate chips and butterscotch chips, it is reminiscent of Rice Krispies treats – but better! See recipe notes or substitutions.

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    Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 5 minutes mins30 minutes hands off/chill time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins

    Course DessertCuisine American

    Servings 24

    EquipmentRubber spatulaAluminum foil or parchment paper
    Ingredients US CustomaryMetric 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal3/4 cup light brown sugar lightly packed1 1/4 cups creamy peanut butter such as JIF1 cup light corn syrup see note for substitutions2 tablespoons unsalted butter room temperature1 teaspoon vanilla extract1/2 teaspoon fine grain sea salt1 cup semisweet chocolate chips1 cup butterscotch chips2 tablespoons sunflower oil or vegetable oil
    Instructions Line a 13×9 inch baking pan with foil or parchment paper that overhangs two sides. If using foil, spritz lightly with nonstick cooking spray or lightly butter.Place the 6 cups of rice cereal in your largest mixing bowl; set aside.In a medium sauce pan, combine the brown sugar, peanut butter, corn syrup, and butter. Cook over medium heat until all the ingredients are melted together. When the sugar is melted and the mixture is smooth, cook just until bubbles start to simmer around the edges of the pan, about 2-4 minutes. Do not bring this mixture to a full boil or the bars will be too hard.Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Stir well with a rubber spatula.Pour the mixture into the bowl of rice cereal and mix well with a rubber spatula, turning the cereal over repeatedly to completely coat all of the rice.Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, spread evenly and tamp down lightly using the back of the rubber spatula. Do not pack firmly! Just lightly press as to not compress the texture of the cereal.Place the semisweet chips and butterscotch chips in two separate microwave-safe bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of oil into each of the bowls. Microwave each bowl at 100% power in 30 second increments until the mixture is melted and smooth. The oil will thin the texture of the chips, making them easier to swirl together.Pour about 1/3 of the melted butterscotch into the melted chocolate; stir to combine well. Spread this mixture onto the warm cereal mixture in the pan.Place the remaining melted butterscotch into a piping bag or a zip top bag with a hole snipped in the end. Pipe lines of butterscotch lengthwise on top of the chocolate layer. Use a skewer or a knife to swirl the butterscotch and chocolate mixture together. (See video for visual.)Transfer the bars to the refrigerator to set for 30-45 minutes.Remove the bars from the pan with the overhanging liner. Cut into 24 pieces. Store airtight. Bars will keep at room temperature for about 5 days.
    NotesSkip the Swirl: For an easy topping, simply combine the semisweet and butterscotch chips in a large microwave-safe bowl. (Omit oil.) Heat at 100% power in 30 second increments until melted with no lumps. Spread over the bars.
    Corn Syrup Alternatives: I’ve seen others that have had success with honey, golden syrup, and brown rice syrup in this recipe, but I have not tested them in my own kitchen. Flavor and texture will vary from the original.
     

    Keyword 13×9, butterscotch chips, classic dessert bars, creamy peanut butter, dessert bars, no bake dessert, retro recipe, Rice Krispies cereal, Scotcharoos, semisweet chocolate chips

    You may also enjoy: LEGGI TUTTO

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      Fireworks & Frosting: 14 Treats for Your Fourth of July Gathering

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      Fireworks, laughter, good company—and of course, delicious desserts! What better way to celebrate the Fourth of July than with a spread of scrumptious treats? This year, ditch the store-bought cakes and impress your guests with homemade delights bursting with flavor and festivity.
      From light and refreshing berry bars to decadent chocolate ice cream, and even a surprising savory option, this list has 14 amazing recipes to make your Fourth of July unforgettable. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or an elegant gathering, you’ll find the perfect dessert to end the day on a sweet note.

      , we paired a slightly salty pretzel cake base with a cream filling and topped it off with a scattering of fresh berries. 

      What better way to celebrate tomato season than a savory cornbread bursting with summer flavor. Featuring a caramelized tomato top, our crisp Upside-Down Heirloom Tomato Cornbread from our May/June 2020 issue is made all the more delicious with smoked white Cheddar cheese and fresh corn in the batter. Buttermilk keeps this quick bread moist, and minced jalapeño adds just a pinch of heat. Whether serving as an impressive appetizer or stunning side dish, you can’t go wrong with this impressive dish at your table.

      Fresh, juicy peach halves give this vanilla and buttermilk Peach Almond Cake bursts of color and concentrated sweet-tart flavor, while the addition of brandy to the homemade marzipan lends just the right amount of kick. 

      Almond flour is finer than standard all-purpose. It absorbs more moisture from the dough, giving the buttermilk crusts of these Blueberry-Almond Galettes added crispness. A hint of tart lemon zest balances out the sweetness of the blueberries.

      Traditional only in method, this Strawberry Raspberry Cobbler has a Middle Eastern flare with cardamom and rosewater. This cobbler made with cake batter soaks up the fruit’s flavorful juices as it bakes and develops a light, spongy crumb. Pistachios create a slightly crunchy texture that pairs well with the tender baked fruit. 

      Traditional apple pie gets an updo with a creamy crème fraîche custard filling in this Apple Crumb Pie. Layers upon layers of crisp sweet apples are topped with a creamy base and baked until soft. With a splash of spiced rum and a crunchy Almond Streusel topping, this recipe begs for ice cream.

      In this sweet summer remake, red velvet cake gets a healthy helping of fresh strawberries added into the buttercream to create a Strawberry Red Velvet Cake that rivals the classic.

      Classic Key lime pie gets a spicy upgrade with our Gingersnap Crust flecked with crystallized ginger. The filling gets extra volume and its whipped consistency from a trio of  creamy ingredients: coconut cream, crème fraîche, and whipped cream. True to the original, this icebox pie is bursting with tangy, sweet-tart Key lime flavor.

      Ditch the extravagant garnishes and towering layers for this simple and sophisticated one-layer cake that is guaranteed to impress. With a layer of cherries baked beneath the Ginger-Lime Crumb Topping, our elevated take on the cherry-limeade cake (a summertime classic) is even more beautiful after you cut into it. You’ll get a juicy burst of cherry in every bite.

      By swapping the traditional cream cheese filling with vanilla bean-scented Mascarpone Cream and replacing the congealed topping with fresh strawberries, we’ve given this classic pastry a modern salty-sweet makeover.

      This cake may be based on the classic 1-2-3-4 cake, but it’s anything but basic! Much like pound cake, the 1-2-3-4 cake gets its name from the proportions of its base ingredients: 1 cup butter, 2 cups sugar, 3 cups flour, 4 eggs. LEGGI TUTTO

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      Crazy for Coconut: 6 Crave-Worthy Coconut Recipes

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      Step into a coconut haven with our plethora of recipes all centered around this irresistible ingredient. Whether sprinkled onto a bun or stirred into a crust, the deliciousness of coconut can’t be denied. 

      Perfumed with coconut extract, swirled with silky whipped cream, and studded with sweetened coconut flakes, this Coconut Skillet Cake is the perfect finale to any meal. The coconut lover in your life is about to be your biggest fan.

      Skoleboller, or school buns, earned their name from the Norwegian tradition of including them in children’s school lunch boxes as a treat.

      The fun name for these large twisted doughnuts supposedly comes from their resemblance to the zig-zag pattern that the big cat’s swinging tail makes. If you’d like to keep the doughnut plain and get your coconut flavor through just the glaze, you can use all whole milk and vanilla extract in the dough.

      This pie isn’t French at all. In fact, it originated in United States port cities like New Orleans, Louisiana, and was first made with ingredients from French Guiana, which is likely how it got its name.

      Sometimes called Hello Dolly Bars (though no one knows why), these nostalgic treats are easy to make and perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up.

      Blending one traditional Southern classic, the cloud-like coconut cake, with blushing stone fruit, this triple-layer cake is an undeniable showstopper. A final coating of toasted coconut flakes brings a dash of color to the typically snowy-white appearance. LEGGI TUTTO

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      Magic Granola Cookie Bars

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      Magic Granola Cookie Bars are made with your favorite ready-made granola. Just five ingredients makes them an easy, quick fix!

      Leave it to me to take something healthy like granola, and make it a little naughty. Magic Granola Cookie Bars are inspired by Magic Cookie Bars (also called 7 Layer Bars, or Hello Dollies). Heard of them? The recipe was published in the 60’s, and home bakers have been making them ever since. A big part of the recipe’s appeal is how easy it is. And also how deliciously chewy-gooey the bars are.
      The inspiration recipe uses 7 layers of ingredients, that includes mix-ins like baking chips, coconut, and nuts. The most important ingredient of them all? A can of sweetened condensed milk. It holds everything together, and creates the most craveable soft, chewy texture. I wondered if a granola mix could be used in place of all those mix-ins. Because a bag of granola already has a lot of things in it – nuts, dried fruit, chocolate chips. (Depending on the variety you use.) I just had to try it, and I’m so glad I did!

      Use Your Favorite Granola
      Start with a box or a bag of your favorite loose granola or granola clusters. You could also use homemade granola if you have some on hand. You’ll need 3 cups, so if you’re purchasing it, get the ‘family size’ container. If you use clusters, break them up with your hands. Or, pound the bag with a rolling pin to break up the clusters before measuring. I used dark chocolate chip sea salt granola clusters, which made the baked bars taste like the best oatmeal chocolate chip cookie bar, ever!’
      Next, you’ll need graham cracker crumbs and butter for the cookie base, and a can of sweetened condensed milk. I also included sweetened flake coconut. This can be optional, but it’s very tasty!

      Make the Crust
      Mix up the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl and pour it into a greased 13×9 inch baking pan. Tamp the crumbs down evenly using the flat bottom of a measuring cup or glass.
      Then, pour the sweetened condensed milk – directly from the can – onto the crust. Really easy so far, right? Right.

      Layer on the Granola
      Here’s the fun part. Because anything goes! Sprinkle on your favorite granola blend. You’ll need 3 cups. Opt for granola with simple ingredients (no corn syrup).

      Layer on the Coconut
      I used sweetened flake coconut but unsweet flake coconut will work also. This ingredient can be optional, but it adds another toasty layer of flavor.

      Bake until Golden Brown
      Place the pan in a preheated 350°F oven and bake for 25 minutes. Prepared granola has already been baked once. So it’s important to tent the bars with foil halfway through baking so it doesn’t overbrown.
      Just out of the oven, and while the pan is still hot, toss on a handful of chocolate chips. I mean, if you’re feeling extra. (I usually am!)

      Cool and Cut
      Let the bars stand in the pan until cool. You can serve them directly from the pan, or turn them out as I did. However, if you plan to remove them from the pan, line it first with aluminum foil that overhangs the sides. You’ll have an easier time removing it than I did.

      These bars are deliciously soft and gooey in the middle, with chewy edges. The chocolate chip granola mix I used made these bars taste like the best oat bars I’ve ever made!

      So, did I manage to reduce the ingredients? Yes. If you don’t use the optional coconut, the whole pan uses just 4 ingredients. But I think the coconut really adds something. So, it’s worth trying!
      The possibilities are endless with all the granola mixes on the market now. I think I’ll use my favorite cranberry-almond with flaxseed for my next attempt. Seeds, nuts, dried fruits, coconut, chocolate chips all do well in this recipe. There is one caveat: avoid granola mixes that include freeze dried fruit, such as strawberry and apple slices. They don’t hydrate to a nice texture, and the pieces near the top tend to burn.
      This recipe is a quick bake for weeknights, or even busy weekends. There’s big payoff with little effort – *chef’s kiss!

      Related Recipe: Healthy Homemade Granola

      Magic Granola Cookie Bars (5 Ingredients!)

      Heather Baird

      Half cookie bar, half granola bar, 100% delicious! These bars start with your favorite ready-made granola mix. Choose oat-based granolas that have additions like peanuts, almonds, flaxseeds, quinoa, craisins, raisins, dried fruit, and chocolate chips. Avoid granola mixes that contain freeze-dried fruits such as strawberries and apples – the baked texture is tough and strange, and they tend to burn.Use loose cereal-type granola or clusters. If you use clusters, break them up by hand or pound the bag with a rolling pin to break them up before measuring.Remember that ready-made granola has been baked once already. Tent the pan with aluminum foil halfway through baking to prevent the top from overbrowning.

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      Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins

      Course DessertCuisine American

      Servings 24

      Equipment9×13 inch panaluminum foil
      Ingredients US CustomaryMetric 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs about 12 sheets crushed fine1/2 cup unsalted butter melted14 oz. sweetened condensed milk 1 can3 cups oat granola any variety with nuts, raisins, chips, etc.1/2 cup sweetened flake coconut optional
      Instructions Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 13×9 inch baking pan with aluminum foil so that it overhangs two long edges of the pan. Spray the foil with cooking spray.In a large mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir until well combined, or until the mixture has the appearance of wet sand. Pour the crumbs into the prepared pan; spread evenly and tamp it down with the bottom of a flat measuring cup, or the palms of your hands.Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crust. Scrape out the can with a rubber spatula to get every last bit out of the can.Sprinkle the oat granola over the sweetened condensed milk in an even layer. Use a rubber spatula to press the granola down into the milk layer.Sprinkle the coconut evenly over the granola.Bake for 25 minutes, tenting the pan with foil halfway through bake time to prevent overbrowning.Cool completely in the pan. You can serve the bars directly from the pan, or after the bars have cooled completely, lift up by the edges of the foil to remove from the pan. Then, cut into 24 pieces.Store the bars in an airtight container.
      NotesWhat to expect: These are the oat version of magic cookie bars. They have soft chewy texture with extra chewy caramelized edges. 
      Optional? You decide: Sweetened flake coconut can be an optional ingredient, but it gives the bars a nice texture reminiscent of the original magic cookie bars.
      Endlessly variable: honey-oat, cranberry-almond, peanut butter-flaxseed, dark chocolate-pecan.. There are hundreds of oat granola mixes out there to try, so have fun experimenting with different flavors!

      Keyword chocolate chips, graham cracker crumbs, granola mix, homemade granola bars, magic cookie bars, oat granola, sweetened condensed milk, unsalted butter

      You may also enjoy: LEGGI TUTTO

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      8 Sensational Small-Batch Bakes

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      Whether you’re enjoying a solo cozy night in or celebrating a special occasion with a few friends, small-batch bakes are perfect for baking for a smaller crowd. From savory breads to dark chocolate cakes, these eight scaled-down recipes are sure to satisfy in their perfect portions.

      Cakey on the outside and filled with a mouthwatering center of molten dark chocolate, these lava cakes are the ultimate romantic dessert for two—just in time for Valentine’s Day.

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      In a 1997 episode of Julia Child’s Baking with Julia, Nancy Silverton baked a brioche tart that was so good it made Julia cry. In our take on this groundbreaking dessert, we filled a pillowy brioche “crust” with velvety cream cheese custard and swirled it with fruit preserves. Finished off with crunchy pearl sugar, this stunner might just make you shed a tear, too.

      There’s something so nostalgic about yellow cake with chocolate frosting, and sometimes, there’s just nothing better! These mini cakes will add a pop of color and sweetness to any celebration. 

      We’ve scaled down our Carrot Cake Cheesecake Bars from a large rectangle pan to fit in a smaller square pan for those occasions when you want the classic carrot, pecan, and spiced flavor of carrot cake but need a recipe for a slightly smaller crowd.

      For these Coffee Tres Leches Cakes, luscious mini pound cakes get soaked in the classic trinity of milks, with shots of espresso and coffee liqueur added in for good measure. Topped with meringue and a sticky coffee syrup drizzle, this cake offers custard-like texture with oodles of coffee flavor.

      Seamlessly blending sweet and savory ingredients, this Small-Batch Fig and Onion Focaccia is perfect for dipping in your favorite olive oil, serving alongside pasta, or eating on its own.

      Cream-filled chocolate sandwich cookie fans, this Black Cocoa Cookies and Cream Cake is for you! Rich black cocoa mixes with espresso powder for a delightful chocolate kick, and a creamy cookie-filled frosting sweetly finishes it. Find the Nordic Ware Charlotte Cake Pan and our book, Another Bundt Collection, in our store here! LEGGI TUTTO

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      Sweet and Salty Nut Bars

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      Sweet and Salty Nut Bars will be the latest and greatest addition to your holiday sweets menu. Made with a buttery shortbread crust, soft chocolate-peanut butter center, and topped with salty mixed nuts – they hold something for everyone!

      No doubt about it, these Sweet and Salty Nut Bars are perfect for the holidays! A cross between a cookie bar and a candy bar, they’re sure to be welcome on either cookie or candy tray. A crumbly shortbread crust is the base for a nutty chocolate-peanut butter fudge center. Then, it’s topped with more roasted, salted, mixed nut goodness. It’s the best of salty and sweet together.

      Make the Shortbread Crust
      Begin the crust with 1/2 cup butter, brown sugar and flour. It’s such a simple combination of ingredients that make magic when mixed together. Start with a wooden spoon, and when the mixture clumps, use your hands to knead the mixture together.

      After everything is combined and crumbly, pour the mixture into the bottom of a parchment-lined 8×8 inch square baking pan. Tamp the crust down into the pan with your palms or with the bottom of a flat measuring cup. Bake it for 12 minutes in a preheated 350F oven, and then cool completely.

      Make the Smooth Peanut Butter-Chocolate Filling
      Next, prepare the filling. It’s such an easy fix! Combine sweetened condensed milk, semisweet chips, and peanut butter. Heat on the stove top and stir until smooth.

      When the mixture is smooth, add in mini marshmallows. Stir while cooking over medium heat. It will take a few minutes for the marshmallows to melt and incorporate. Just keep stirring!

      Add Salty Mixed Nuts
      Stir in a cup of roasted, salted mixed nuts. Don’t go for ‘lightly salted’, we’re looking for well-seasoned mixed nuts with roasty flavor. The Planter’s mix I used has peanuts, almonds, cashews, and pistachios (similar here).

      Pour the chocolaty mixture over the prepared, cooled shortbread crust. It will begin to set up quickly, so smooth the top as best you can and then…

      Sprinkle the nuts evenly over the surface of the fudgy filling.

      Even the Top
      Using flat palms, or the bottom of a flat measuring cup, tamp the nuts down into the chocolate filling. Allow the candy to set until completely cool and firm. You can also refrigerate the pan to speed setting.

      Remove the slab from the pan by lifting it out by the parchment paper. Then cut it into squares. I portioned generous slices (16 total), however, these are rich. You could easily cut them smaller to double the yield.

      Salty-sweet-crunchy-nutty – what’s not to love? These travel well, and can be easily be packaged for gift giving. While they’re not exactly cookies, I think they’d be welcome at any cookie swap!
      Related recipe: Easy Toffee Walnut Bars

      Sweet and Salty Nut Bars

      Heather Baird

      These bars are a harmonious blend of sweet and salty, featuring a buttery shortbread base, luscious chocolate-peanut butter filling, and a generous sprinkle of roasted, salted mixed nuts on top. With their dual personality as both a cookie and a candy, they’re the ideal treat for holiday dessert gifts or gatherings. Please note that salted butter is used in the shortbread crust. Unsalted butter can be used in its place. If you do this, add a pinch of fine grain salt to the flour mixture.

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      Prep Time 29 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes mins1 hour setting time. 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 41 minutes mins

      Course DessertCuisine American

      Servings 16 pieces

      Equipment8×8 inch baking pan
      Ingredients US CustomaryMetric 1/4 cups all-purpose flour1/2 cup brown sugar lightly packed1/2 cup salted butter room temperature1 can 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk2 cups semisweet chocolate chips½ cup creamy peanut butter2 cups mini marshmallows2 1/4 cups roasted salted mixed nuts such as almonds, cashews, pistachios, and peanuts
      Instructions Preheat oven to 350°F. Line 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper so paper hangs over all four sides.Combine flour, brown sugar and butter in large bowl. Stir, using wooden spoon, until large clumps form and then use hands to knead mixture together. Press dough into bottom of prepared pan; bake 12 minutes. Remove pan from oven and place on cooling rack to cool completely.In medium saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, semisweet chocolate chips and peanut butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until chips are melted and mixture is smooth. Add marshmallows and stir well. Cook until marshmallows melt and can be stirred into the chocolate- peanut butter mixture. Add 1 cup of mixed nuts; stir to incorporate. Pour mixture over crust and spread evenly using spatula.Sprinkle remaining 1 1/4 cup mixed nuts on top of the filling while still warm. Gently press the peanuts into filling using fingertips. Refrigerate bars 1 hour or more before cutting. Bring to room temperature before serving.Store bars at room temperature in air-tight container or covered in plastic wrap.

      Keyword brown sugar, christmas candy, Christmas cookies, fudge filling, mini marshmallows, salted mixed nuts, shortbread crust, sweet and salty nut bars, sweetened condensed milk

      You may also enjoy: LEGGI TUTTO

    • in Recipes

      Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Bars

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      These Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Bars are a delightful dessert mashup of the classic cookie and pumpkin spice bars. Baked in a 13×9 pan, this recipe makes plenty for sharing!

      This Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Bar recipe is a fusion of everything I love about fall baking. It takes the classic snickerdoodle cookie, famous for its cinnamon-sugar goodness, and turns it into a quick(er) baking project with an autumn makeover. Pumpkin puree in the batter gives the bars a beautiful golden interior. Pumpkin spice added to crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping adds an extra layer of warmth and flavor. A batch comes together quickly and is baked in a 13×9 inch pan, which means there will be plenty to go around!

      Make the pumpkin batter.
      This is such an easy batter to whip up. Start with an entire cup of melted butter, both white and brown sugars, pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add ground cinnamon and pumpkin spice and blend well. Add in a little fine grain salt to balance out the flavors.

      Mix in the flour and leaven.
      Next, add flour, cream of tartar, and baking powder. Mix it all up just until the batter is consistent. (I’m not even sure step photos were necessary for this, because it’s SUCH a simple recipe!)

      The finished batter should be fairly thick. I used a hand mixer, but you could easily mix this together by hand with just a spatula.

      Top with sugar and spice mixture.
      The cinnamon-sugar and pumpkin spice mixture is crucial to the snickerdoodle appeal of this dessert. It creates that wonderful crunchy top. Cover the entire surface with the mixture – it will seem like too much sugar, but it bakes up just right.

      You can serve these directly from the baking pan, or plate them if you’re having a special dinner.

      These Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Bars are cakey inside, but deserve to be called bars because of their tight crumb. The interior is soft and the cinnamon-sugar crunch on top is so addictive! Serve them warm with coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up. They keep well stored in an airtight container.
      Related recipe: Pecan Praline Pumpkin Torte

      Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Bars

      Heather Baird

      This is a quick baking project, easily made in about an hour from start to finish. A plateful makes a wonderful edible gift or just a sweet indulgence for yourself. They’re easy to make, absolutely delicious, and they capture the essence of fall in every bite.

      #wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #5A822B; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-33 stop { stop-color: #5A822B; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-50 stop { stop-color: #5A822B; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-66 stop { stop-color: #5A822B; }No ratings yet

      Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 23 minutes minscooling time 30 minutes 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 3 minutes mins

      Course DessertCuisine American

      Servings 18 bars

      Equipment13×9 inch baking pan
      Ingredients  Cinnamon-spice sugar coating5 tablespoons granulated sugar2 teaspoon ground cinnamon1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spicePumpkin snickerdoodle batter1 cup unsalted butter melted and slightly cooled1 cup granulated sugar1 cup light brown sugar packed2 large eggs1 tablespoon vanilla extract1/2 teaspoon fine grain sea salt or other fine grain salt1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour1 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar1 teaspoon baking powder
      Instructions Cinnamon-spice sugar coatingCombine the sugar, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice in a small bowl.Whisk until the ingredients are well combined; set aside.BatterPreheat the oven to 350°F.Coat a 13×9 inch baking pan with flour-based baking spray, or mist it with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper that overhangs two sides of the pan. Lightly coat the paper with cooking spray.Place the melted butter in a large mixing bowl. Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix together using a hand mixer on low speed or a whisk.Add the pumpkin, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix again until well blended.Next, add the flour, cream of tartar, and baking powder. Mix until well combined, about 1 minute.Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Top with all of the cinnamon-spice sugar mixture. Use a spatula or your hand to lightly tamp the sugar down.Bake for 20-23 minutes, or until a toothpick tester inserted near the center comes out clean, or with a few moist crumbs attached. The sugar coating will create a crunchy crust, along with some loose granules shifting around on top when the pan is moved. This is normal.Cool in the pan 30 minutes to serve warm, or cool completely for about 1 hour. Serve bars from the pan or transfer squares to a platter (try to keep as much loose sugar on the bars as possible). If using the parchment liner, lift the entire sheet of pumpkin bars from the pan using the overhanging parchment, then cut into squares.Serve slices warm or at room temperature. Squares reheat well in the microwave for 20 seconds. Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
      NotesThese bars can be made ahead and frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bring to room temperature before serving. 

      Keyword bar recipes, brown sugar, canned pumpkin, canned pumpkin puree, fall desserts, pumpkin pie spice, pumpkin snickerdoodle bars

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    • in Recipes

      Easy Toffee Walnut Bars

      ha scritto per te

      Easy Toffee Walnut Bars are crowd-pleasing treats and only require a few ingredients! Add them to your cookie baking roster this holiday season.

      If you like to bake-and-give for the holidays, then you should add these to your short list. One pan makes a whole bunch of servings, and everyone loves them. They are chewy and chocolaty with a crumbly shortbread base. I make them year-round, because they are one of my husband’s favorite treats, plus they are SO EASY. Casual as they may be to make, they still taste special enough to make an appearance on fancy Christmas cookie trays.

      Shortbread base.
      Whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Then blend a whole cup of butter into the flour mixture. I used a big serving fork’s tines to mash the butter into the flour to fine crumbs. But you could use a pastry blender if you have one.

      Press the crust mixture into the bottom of an aluminum foil-lined and greased 13×9 baking pan. The flour mixture packs well under your palms, or use the flat bottom of a measuring cup.

      The easiest filling!
      In a separate bowl, beat together sweetened condensed milk, an egg, vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

      Add to this mixture a bag of milk chocolate-covered toffee bits (such as Heath Milk Chocolate Toffee Bits) and chopped English walnuts. Mix this all together until all the bits are well dispersed.

      Next, pour the mixture over the crust and and bake. The Heath bits and sweetened condensed milk mixture will puff and turn golden as it bakes, creating a chewy crave-worthy toffee topping.
      Easy Toffee Walnut Bars

      I couldn’t help but add an extra drizzle of chocolate on top of each square. This can be optional, but it makes a really pretty presentation. When the chocolate is set, they package up neatly in cellophane bags for gift giving. They also look really pretty on a dessert buffet arranged with some Florentine Cookie Bars.

      Easy Toffee Walnut Bars

      Heather Baird

      These bars are always a hit with their buttery shortbread crust and chewy toffee topping. Made with mostly pantry staples, they come together quickly and are easy to package for holiday gift giving.You can find the Heath milk chocolate-covered toffee bits in the baking aisle at most US grocery stores next to the chocolate chips. If you can’t find the bits, you may buy Heath milk chocolate-covered toffee bars and crush them with a rolling pin to create the 8 oz. of bits needed for the recipe.

      #wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #5A822B; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-33 stop { stop-color: #5A822B; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-50 stop { stop-color: #5A822B; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-66 stop { stop-color: #5A822B; }No ratings yet

      Prep Time 10 minsCook Time 40 minsTotal Time 50 mins

      Course DessertCuisine American

      Servings 30

      Equipment13×9 inch panzip top bag optional
      Ingredients US CustomaryMetric 2 cups all-purpose flour1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar1 cup cold butter at room temperature1 large egg at room temperature14 oz. sweetened condensed milk one can1 teaspoon vanilla extract1/4 teaspoon fine grain sea salt8 oz. milk chocolate covered toffee bits one package1 cup chopped English walnuts3 oz. melted semisweet chocolate optional
      Instructions Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 13×9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil that overhangs the edges and grease the foil with nonstick cooking spray.In a large bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Mash the butter into the flour using the tines of a fork, or with a pastry blender. Combine until crumbly.Press the crust mixture into the prepared baking pan. Bake 15 minutes.Meanwhile, combine the egg, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, and salt in a medium bowl. Fold in toffee bits and walnuts.Spoon the mixture over the baked crust. Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and slightly puffed.Cool in the pan about 15 minutes, then refrigerate until firm. Lift the slab from the pan using the overhanging aluminum foil. Cut into 30 pieces.If using the chocolate drizzle, place the melted chocolate in a zip top bag with a tiny hole in the corner snipped. Lay the bars on a parchment-covered work surface and drizzle each bar with chocolate. Let stand until set, about 20 minutes.Package bars in cellophane bags for gift-giving, or store them airtight between waxed paper.
      NotesA delicious variation to this recipe is to swap in pecans for the walnuts.

      Keyword 13×9 dessert, easy toffee walnut bars, Heath mik chocolate-covered toffee bits, shortbread crust, toffee bar recipe, toffee bars

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    • in Recipes

      Ginger Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars

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      Snickerdoodle cookies get a seasonal cheesecake makeover with these Ginger Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars. One pan feeds a crowd!

      It’s hard to improve upon a classic, but these layered Ginger Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars come close! They’re so decadent and delicious with a gingersnap crust, cheesecake filling, and snickerdoodle cookie topping. There’s so much to love!

      Make the crust with your favorite ready-made gingersnaps. Melted butter makes the base even more delicious with its flavor and helps anchor the crust together at the bottom of the dish.

      We all love a 13×9 dish dessert. And especially for the holidays. It’s such a great way to make dessert for a crowd. One pan yields about 24 bars. And they’re so rich just a little goes a long way.

      Whip up the cheesecake filling in the bowl of an electric mixer. It’ll be thick and luscious, and easy to spread over the gingersnap crust.

      Mix up the snickerdoodle cookie topping in a big bowl. The dough should be thick and not too sticky.

      Pinch off pieces of the dough with your fingers and place them on top of the cheesecake layer. This is probably the most work you’ll do making these bars. Once everything is covered, sprinkle the cookie layer with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar.

      Bake the dessert for about 30 minutes. The sides will puff up and the middle will still have a slight wobble when it’s done. Plan ahead because these need to chill before you slice them.

      Ginger Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars are true comfort food! The ginger flavor that makes them so season appropriate. I bet Santa wouldn’t mind these instead of cookies on Christmas Eve.
      This blog post is sponsored by Go Bold With Butter! View their other recipes right here.

      Ginger Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars

      Heather Baird

      These Ginger Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars put a seasonal twist on the classic cookie. They’re layered with a buttery gingersnap crust, filled with creamy cheesecake batter, and topped with a ginger-snickerdoodle cookie crust.

      #wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #5A822B; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-33 stop { stop-color: #5A822B; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-50 stop { stop-color: #5A822B; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-66 stop { stop-color: #5A822B; }No ratings yet

      Prep Time 20 minsCook Time 30 minsTotal Time 50 mins

      Course DessertCuisine American

      Servings 24

      Equipment13×9 inch dish
      Ingredients US CustomaryMetric Gingersnap cookie crust1 1/2 cups ginger snap cookie crumbs1/2 cup chopped pecans1/4 cup granulated sugar1/2 cup unsalted butter meltedCheesecake filling16 oz. cream cheese softened3/4 cup granulated sugar2 large eggs1 teaspoon vanilla extract1/2 teaspoon cinnamonGinger snickerdoodle layer3/4 cup unsalted butter softened1 1/2 cups granulated sugar1 large egg1 teaspoon vanilla extract1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder1/4 teaspoon fine grain salt2 cups all-purpose flour sifted1/2 teaspoon cinnamon1/2 teaspoon ground gingerCinnamon-sugar topping1/4 cup granulated sugar1 teaspoon cinnamon
      Instructions Gingersnap crustPreheat the oven to 350°F.Spray a 13×9 baking dish with flour-based baking spray, or grease the pan and line with parchment paper.Combine the gingersnap cookie crumbs with the pecans and sugar in a large mixing bowl, and then pour melted butter over the mixture. Stir until thoroughly combined. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.Cheesecake fillingIn the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the cream cheese on medium speed until soft and fluffy. With the mixer still running, add sugar, eggs, vanilla and cinnamon. Scrape down sides and bottom of the bowl to be sure all the ingredients are well-incorporated. Whip on medium-high speed until smooth and fluffy. Pour the filling over the crust, spreading into an even layer.Snickerdoodle cookie layerIn the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter and sugar together until fluffy. Mix in the egg and vanilla. Add baking powder, salt, flour, cinnamon and ground ginger. Mix until just combined. Using your fingers, pinch dough into small pieces and place over the surface of the cheesecake layer. Cover the entire surface of the cheesecake layer with the dough.Cinnamon-sugar toppingStir sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the cookie dough layer.Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top cookie layer is golden brown and the edges are puffed. The cheesecake middle should have a slight wobble when moved.Cool completely in the pan. Cover the bars and refrigerate to set, about 4 hours or overnight. When cheesecake bars are fully set, cut them into squares and serve.

      Keyword cheeecake filling, cream cheese, gingersnap crust, ground ginger, snickerdoodle topping

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