Butterscotch Drops: A No-Bake Delight for Summer
When the sweltering heat of summer makes turning on the oven an unthinkable task, these Butterscotch Drops come to the rescue with their simplicity and ease. This no-bake recipe is a hidden gem from The Salvation Army’s Collection of Family Recipes, offering a delightful treat that’s perfect for quick, kid-friendly desserts without the hassle of baking. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a batch of these chewy, sweet confections that will be ready to enjoy in no time.
Overview
- Name: Butterscotch Drops
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Description: I like this cookie because it’s so easy to make and doesn’t require baking in the oven, which is a definite advantage in the summertime. I found it in The Salvation Army’s Collection of Family Recipes.
- Recipe Category: Drop Cookies
- Keywords: Dessert, Cookie & Brownie, Kid Friendly, < 15 Mins, Easy
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 34.1
- Fat Content: 1.9 g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.4 g
- Cholesterol Content: 0 mg
- Sodium Content: 41.3 mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 3.1 g
- Fiber Content: 0.3 g
- Sugar Content: 0.8 g
- Protein Content: 1.7 g
- Recipe Yield: 36 drops
Ingredients
To prepare these scrumptious Butterscotch Drops, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of butterscotch drops: These are the stars of the recipe, providing a rich, sweet flavor.
- 1/2 cup of peanut butter: Creamy or crunchy, your choice! This adds a delightful nutty flavor and helps bind the ingredients together.
- 4 cups of cereal: Choose a simple, crispy cereal. This will provide the base and texture for your drops.
Instructions
Creating these no-bake cookies is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
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Melt the Ingredients:
- Combine the butterscotch drops and peanut butter in a saucepan.
- Melt them together over low heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning. It’s crucial to maintain a low temperature to ensure the mixture doesn’t scorch. The combination should be smooth and well-blended.
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Mix with Cereal:
- Once melted, pour the mixture over the cereal in a large mixing bowl.
- Stir well to coat the cereal thoroughly. Ensure every piece is covered with the butterscotch-peanut butter mixture to hold the drops together.
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Form the Drops:
- Using a tablespoon, drop the mixture onto waxed paper-lined cookie sheets. Make sure the drops are well-shaped and evenly spaced to avoid sticking together.
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Chill and Set:
- Place the cookie sheets in the refrigerator. Allow the drops to chill for a couple of hours until they are firm and set.
- It’s best to make them in the morning so they are ready for afterschool snacks.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once set, remove the drops from the refrigerator.
- Store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Enjoy these delectable treats as a snack or dessert.
Tips and Variations
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Ingredient Substitutions: You can substitute the butterscotch drops with chocolate chips or white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. For a nut-free option, use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
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Add-Ins: Enhance the flavor and texture by adding in some mini marshmallows, nuts, or dried fruit before dropping the mixture onto the waxed paper.
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Shaping: If you want a different shape, try using small cookie cutters to form the drops into fun shapes before chilling.
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Storage: These cookies can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. If they last that long!
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Serving Suggestions: Pair these drops with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of tea for a delightful treat. They are also great for packing in lunchboxes or for a quick afterschool snack.
The Appeal of No-Bake Cookies
Butterscotch Drops exemplify why no-bake cookies are beloved by many. These treats are not only easy and quick to make but also versatile and forgiving, accommodating various substitutions and additions. They are a practical choice for summer, avoiding the need to heat up your kitchen with an oven, making them ideal for hot days or when you’re short on time.
The simplicity of no-bake cookies makes them a perfect project for children to assist with, fostering a love for cooking and providing a sense of accomplishment as they see the final product take shape. The ease of preparation combined with the delicious results makes no-bake cookies a go-to for busy families and anyone seeking a quick sweet fix.
History and Cultural Significance
The inclusion of this recipe in The Salvation Army’s Collection of Family Recipes hints at its practicality and widespread appeal. The Salvation Army, known for its charitable work and community outreach, often gathers recipes that are accessible, economical, and nourishing, reflecting the organization’s commitment to supporting families. Recipes like Butterscotch Drops are not only enjoyable but also manageable for families of all sizes and cooking skill levels.
The history of no-bake cookies dates back to times when convenience and simplicity were paramount, often tied to periods of economic hardship or times when home cooks needed to make do with limited resources. Over time, these recipes have evolved and been cherished for their adaptability and ease, becoming a staple in many households.
Conclusion
Butterscotch Drops are a delightful testament to the joys of simple, no-bake treats. Their ease of preparation, minimal ingredient list, and quick set time make them a fantastic option for busy days or hot summer afternoons when baking isn’t desirable. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack, a lunchbox addition, or a sweet end to a meal, these drops are sure to please with their rich flavor and satisfying texture.
So next time you’re in the mood for something sweet but don’t want to turn on the oven, give these Butterscotch Drops a try. With their easy preparation and delightful taste, they just might become a new favorite in your household!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
A: Yes, crunchy peanut butter can be used and will add an extra layer of texture to your drops.
Q: What type of cereal is best for this recipe?
A: A simple, crispy cereal works best. Options like cornflakes or rice cereal are popular choices.
Q: How can I ensure the drops don’t stick to the waxed paper?
A: Make sure to coat the waxed paper well or use parchment paper. If you still encounter sticking, lightly spray the paper with a non-stick spray.
Q: Can I freeze these cookies?
A: Yes, Butterscotch Drops can be frozen. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Q: Are there any dietary modifications for this recipe?
A: For a gluten-free version, ensure that the cereal you use is certified gluten-free. For a nut-free version, substitute peanut butter with a seed butter like sunflower seed butter.
Feel free to experiment with this versatile recipe and enjoy the delightful process of creating your own Butterscotch Drops!
