If you haven't ever had a scotcharoo, well, let me just say, they are yummy. These treats do have a few downsides. First, whenever I make them, I end up eating half the pan myself. Second, because they are so sweet and I consume so many of them, my mouth hurts for a day or two after eating the last one. This can't be good... and with all the corn syrup and refined sugar the original recipe calls for, they certainly aren't good for you.
So, here is my attempt to make them better for you. I used a lot less sugar than the recipe calls for, and I substituted blue agave nectar for the corn syrup. Also, I used organic whole grain puffed rice instead of 'Rice Krispies' or similar cereals. Now, because of these changes, the texture is not exactly the same... but the flavor profiles are. Dr. J and the kiddos loved them, and I won't feel so bad about eating half the pan myself...
Peanut Butter Puffed Rice
Peanut Butter Puffed Rice
Ingredients
5 cups organic whole grain rice puffs
1 cup peanut butter (I used Skippy Natural Creamy)
1/3 cup blue agave nectar
2/3 cup turbinado sugar
Directions
1. Over medium low heat, combine the sugar and agave nectar until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the peanut butter.
3. Add in the rice puffs and stir until they are evenly coated.
4. Pour the rice puffs into a lightly oiled 9x13 pan and spread them out evenly.
Chocolate Topping
Ingredients
1 cup semi-sweet vegan chocolate chips
1/4 cup coconut oil
1/2 teaspoon imitation butter flavor
2 tablespoons agave nectar
Directions
1. Over low heat combine all the ingredients and stir constantly until all the chocolate chips have melted.
2. Pour over the pan of puffed rice and spread evenly with a spatula.
3. Cover and chill in the refrigerator prior to cutting into squares and serving.
Comments
I'n not an expert, but when I looked at High Fructose Corn Syrup vs. Agave Nectar, the Agave seemed a better choice. The truth is, I think any sweetener in excess isn't good for you.