Butterscotch Bars

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that combines buttery goodness with rich butterscotch flavor, Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars are sure to please. These bars are easy to make and are perfect for any occasion, be it a family gathering or a cozy night in. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create sweet, chewy treats that everyone will rave about.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars have a unique combination of flavors and textures. The melted butter creates a rich, chewy base, while light brown sugar adds a touch of caramel-like sweetness. Butterscotch chips deliver a creamy richness that perfectly complements the crunch of optional pecans, making each bite a wonderful experience. Not only are they scrumptious, but these bars are also incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time.

Ingredients

Before you get started, gather the following ingredients:

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup packed light brown sugar
1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt
½ cup butterscotch chips
½ cup chopped pecans (optional)

Directions

Follow these easy steps to make your Butterscotch Bars:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, stir together the melted butter and brown sugar until you have a smooth mixture.

Step 3: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 5: Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Fold in the butterscotch chips and chopped pecans if using. They add a fantastic texture and flavor.
Step 7: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Step 8: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps them set up nicely.

Per Serving

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12 bars

Pro Tips for Making Butterscotch Bars

For a richer flavor, consider browning the butter before adding it to the sugar mixture; this will add a nutty undertone.

Allow your bars to cool completely before cutting to avoid crumbling and to achieve nice, clean edges.
Experiment by adding different types of chips, like chocolate or peanut butter, or use a combination of butterscotch and chocolate chips.
If you prefer extra texture, toast the pecans before folding them into the batter to enhance their flavor.

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their chewy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for unsalted butter?

You can use salted butter, just remember to reduce or omit the additional salt in the recipe.

Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?

Yes, light brown sugar works perfectly well and yields slightly lighter bars.

How do I store leftovers?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.

Can I freeze these bars?

Absolutely! Wrap them well in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

What can I serve with Butterscotch Bars?

These bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra treat!

Conclusion

Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars are a delightful indulgence that strikes the perfect balance between sweet, buttery, and chewy. Their simplicity and deliciousness make them a favorite for both family gatherings and casual snacking. By following this easy recipe, you’ll create a dessert that’s bound to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy baking these heavenly treats!