Butterscotch Pumpkin Cheerio Treat Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that brings fall flavors and buttery goodness together in one bite, you’ve got to try my Butterscotch Pumpkin Cheerio Treat Bars Recipe. These bars are seriously fan-freaking-tastic — combining the cozy aroma of pumpkin pie spice with the rich sweetness of butterscotch and the crunchy, cozy charm of Pumpkin Spice Cheerios. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become your go-to snack for cozy afternoons or holiday gatherings.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the flavors here work together beautifully—from the creamy butterscotch base to the warm pumpkin spices, plus that satisfying crunch of Pumpkin Spice Cheerios. When you head to the store, look for quality butterscotch chips and fresh mini marshmallows for best results.

• Butterscotch chips: They melt so smoothly and give that rich caramel flavor that makes these bars irresistible.
• Light corn syrup: Helps bind everything together and keeps your bars nice and chewy.
• Butter: Adds that deep creamy richness to balance out the sweetness.
• Miniature marshmallows: They melt in with the butterscotch to create a perfectly sticky, gooey texture.
• Pumpkin pie spice: This spice mix is the star of the show—think cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves blending into cozy fall vibes.
• Pumpkin Spice Cheerios: These are the crunchy heart of the bars—flavored cereal adds seasonal fun and texture.
• White chocolate chips: Used for a cinnamon-spiced drizzle that adds a sweet finishing touch and pretty look.
• Cinnamon: Mixed into the white chocolate drizzle to amplify that warm fall flavor.

Variations

I love mixing things up with this Butterscotch Pumpkin Cheerio Treat Bars Recipe, and you’ll enjoy making it your own, too. Whether you’re adapting for diet needs or adding fun mix-ins, these bars are super flexible.

• Nutty Addition: I sometimes toss in chopped pecans or walnuts for some extra crunch and a hint of earthiness—a favorite with my family.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute vegan butter and use dairy-free white chocolate to keep it friendly for all eaters.
• Spice it Up: If you like your spices bold, add an extra pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg—it really amps up the cozy vibes.
• Alternative Cereals: You can swap Pumpkin Spice Cheerios for regular Cheerios or even Rice Chex if you want something a little lighter in texture.

How to Make Butterscotch Pumpkin Cheerio Treat Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Start by lightly spraying a 9×13-inch cake pan with cooking spray. I’ve learned this little step makes a huge difference—it helps the bars release easily later without sticking or crumbling all over the place. Trust me, no one likes a broken treat bar!

Step 2: Melt Butterscotch Mixture

In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the butterscotch chips, light corn syrup, butter, and miniature marshmallows. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring after each minute, until everything is completely smooth. I like to stir gently but thoroughly each time to make sure those marshmallows melt evenly without burning the chips.

Step 3: Add the Pumpkin Spice

Once your mixture is smooth and glossy, stir in the pumpkin pie spice. This is what brings in those irresistible autumn aromas. I always give it a nice even stir so the flavor spreads perfectly throughout.

Step 4: Mix in the Cheerios

Add in the Pumpkin Spice Cheerios and quickly fold them into the sticky mixture. Work fast because it sets up quickly! You’ll want every piece of cereal coated to get that perfect chewy-crunchy bite.

Step 5: Press Into the Pan

Transfer the chewy Cheerio mixture into your prepared pan. I like to lightly spray a spoon or even my hands with cooking spray so the mixture doesn’t stick while pressing it evenly into the pan. Pack it down firmly but don’t smash it too hard—you still want a little loft and chew.

Step 6: Melt White Chocolate and Add Cinnamon

In a small bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between to avoid burning. Once smooth, stir in the cinnamon for a warm spice kick that pairs beautifully with the butterscotch and pumpkin flavors.

Step 7: Drizzle or Spread the Chocolate

Spread the cinnamon white chocolate evenly over the pressed bars. If you want a pretty drizzle effect, pop the melted white chocolate into a plastic baggie, snip a tiny corner off, and drizzle over the bars with control. Either way, the white chocolate adds a gorgeous finishing touch.

Step 8: Chill and Slice

Refrigerate the bars for about an hour or until they’re firm to the touch. This chilling step is key—it helps the bars hold together when slicing. Once set, cut into squares and serve! I like to store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh and chewy.

How to Serve Butterscotch Pumpkin Cheerio Treat Bars Recipe

Garnishes

Sometimes I like to sprinkle a tiny pinch of extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon on top just before serving to amp up the aroma. A few festive sprinkles or chopped nuts also make them look even more inviting for holiday parties.

Side Dishes

These bars are great on their own, but I often serve them alongside a warm mug of spiced apple cider or pumpkin latte. For a larger spread, pair with some simple fruit or even a creamy dip like mascarpone whipped with a little vanilla.

Creative Ways to Present

If I’m serving these at a party, I like to cut them into bite-size squares and arrange them on a pretty platter with autumn leaves or cinnamon sticks for a cozy touch. I’ve also wrapped individual bars in wax paper tied with twine for gifting—they’re always a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is warm, pop them in the fridge to keep them firm and fresh without drying out.

Freezing

Freezing works well if you want to make these ahead. Just wrap bars individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for about an hour—it keeps the texture just right.

Reheating

I don’t usually reheat these bars, but if you like them slightly warm, a quick 10-second zap in the microwave softens the edges nicely without melting the white chocolate topping too much.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how these Butterscotch Pumpkin Cheerio Treat Bars Recipe come together—quick, delicious, and packed with nostalgic fall flavors that remind me of cozy afternoons with my family. Whenever I make these, everyone asks for seconds, and it always feels like a little celebration of the season. Give them a try—the recipe is forgiving, fun, and sure to be a favorite that you’ll enjoy making for yourself and sharing with friends!

Print