Description
These Butterscotch Bars are a delightful treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. They feature a rich, buttery flavor with a chewy texture and a generous helping of butterscotch chips and nuts. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, these bars are ideal for parties, bake sales, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. The recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. These bars are incredibly addictive, and you’ll find yourself reaching for one after another! Feel free to customize them with different types of nuts or even a sprinkle of sea salt for a contrasting flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 2 cups packed light brown sugar (or dark brown sugar for a deeper, richer flavor)
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- ¾ cup chopped pecans (or walnuts, or a mix of both)
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to create handles for easy removal. Lightly spray the parchment paper with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until the mixture is thickened and well combined. This step is crucial for creating the chewy texture of the bars.
Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and optional cinnamon. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough bars.
Step 6: Stir in the butterscotch chips and chopped nuts, reserving a small amount of each for topping.
Step 7: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the reserved butterscotch chips and nuts over the top of the batter.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is slightly soft.
Step 9: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper handles.
Step 10: Once cooled, cut the bars into desired sizes.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward and uses simple ingredients.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of butterscotch, brown sugar, and nuts creates a rich and satisfying taste.
- Chewy Texture: These bars have a delightful chewy texture that makes them irresistible.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to your preferences by using different types of nuts or adding other mix-ins.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These bars are great for parties, bake sales, or a simple treat at home.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Butterscotch Bars as a standalone dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Enjoy them with a cup of hot coffee, tea, or milk.
- Pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet treat.
- Serve them at parties and gatherings – they’re always a hit!
- Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra layer of flavor.
Tips:
- Use room temperature eggs for better incorporation into the batter.
- Don’t overmix the batter to avoid tough bars.
- Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Cool the bars completely before cutting for cleaner slices.
- Store the bars in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
- For a richer flavor, use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty contrast.
- Experiment with different types of nuts, such as walnuts or almonds.
- Add a handful of chocolate chips for a chocolate-butterscotch combination.
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
25-30 minutes
Total Time:
Approximately 90 minutes (including cooling time)
Nutrition Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
Calories:
Approximately 200-250 per bar
Protein:
Approximately 2-3 grams per bar
Sodium:
Approximately 50-75mg per bar
Conclusion
These Butterscotch Bars are a fantastic treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With their chewy texture, rich flavor, and ease of preparation, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a party or simply want a delicious dessert at home, these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy baking and savoring these delightful Butterscotch Bars!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar?
A: Yes, you can use dark brown sugar for a deeper and richer flavor. Keep in mind that it will make the bars slightly darker and more molasses-like in taste.
Q2: Can I substitute the pecans with another type of nut?
A: Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even a mix of different nuts would work well in this recipe. Choose your favorite nuts or whatever you have on hand.
Q3: Do I have to use butterscotch chips, or can I use something else?
A: While butterscotch chips are the star of this recipe, you can certainly experiment with other types of chips, such as chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or even peanut butter chips.
Q4: How do I store the Butterscotch Bars?
A: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
Q5: Why is it important to let the bars cool completely before cutting them?
A: Cooling the bars completely allows them to firm up, making them easier to cut into clean slices. If you try to cut them while they’re still warm, they may crumble or fall apart.