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Scarecrow Treats Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 138 reviews
  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 24 small bars 1x

Description

Scarecrow Treats are a festive and delicious layered bar combining a soft yellow cake base, gooey toasted marshmallows, and a crunchy peanut butter rice crispy topping studded with salted peanuts and candy corn. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for fall gatherings and Halloween celebrations, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Layer

  • 1/2 cup butter (softened)
  • 1 (15.25 ounce) yellow cake mix
  • 1 large egg

Marshmallow Layer

  • 3 cups mini-marshmallows

Topping

  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup white sugar
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups Rice Crispies cereal
  • 2 cups salted peanuts
  • 1 cup candy corn

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, combine the softened butter and yellow cake mix. Beat on low speed until well mixed. Add the egg and continue beating until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
  2. Form the base layer: Press the batter evenly onto the bottom of a parchment-lined or greased 15x10x1-inch jelly-roll pan. The layer should be very thin; using the heel of your hand works well to spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the crust is set but not browned. Remove from oven.
  3. Add marshmallows: Immediately sprinkle the mini-marshmallows over the hot crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, just until the marshmallows puff up.
  4. Make the topping: While the marshmallows bake, combine the light corn syrup, brown sugar, and white sugar in a large saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a boil, about 2 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
  5. Add cereal and nuts: Quickly stir in the Rice Crispies cereal and salted peanuts into the peanut butter mixture. The mixture will be thick.
  6. Assemble the bars: Immediately spoon the mixture over the warm marshmallows and spread to cover completely. Press the mixture down gently into the marshmallow layer to ensure it adheres well. Quickly sprinkle the candy corn evenly over the top and press them down gently into the bars.
  7. Cool and serve: Allow the entire pan to cool completely so that the topping sets firmly. Once cool, cut into small bars and serve.

Notes

  • Pressing the base layer evenly is key for uniform bars.
  • Work quickly when adding the topping because the peanut butter mixture sets fast.
  • Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
  • These bars keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Substitute salted peanuts with other nuts or omit for a nut-free version.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Scarecrow Treats, Halloween dessert, peanut butter bars, marshmallow bars, rice crispy treats, fall dessert

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Find it online: https://isabellavance.com/scarecrow-treats-recipe/