These chewy and buttery Butterscotch Bars are the ultimate nostalgic treat, delivering a perfect combination of rich butterscotch flavor and a delightful crunch from the nuts. Simple to prepare and utterly satisfying, these bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars are the epitome of comfort food. The blend of brown and granulated sugar gives these bars their perfect chewy texture, while the butterscotch chips add that rich, indulgent flavor. The optional chopped pecans or walnuts provide a crunchy contrast that takes these bars to the next level. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this recipe is sure to become a go-to for any sweet tooth!

Ingredients

1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup butterscotch chips
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth and well blended.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully combined.
Fold in the butterscotch chips and chopped nuts (if using).
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 16 bars
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Nuts: While pecans or walnuts are a delicious addition, feel free to swap them out for other nuts, such as almonds or cashews.
Chocolate Chips: If you prefer chocolate, substitute the butterscotch chips with semi-sweet chocolate chips for a different twist.
Vegan Option: Substitute the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg replacement and use dairy-free butter to make these bars vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover butterscotch bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating: These bars are delicious both warm and at room temperature. Reheat them gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if you prefer them warm.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, but if using salted butter, reduce the amount of salt in the recipe to prevent the bars from being too salty.

2. Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, you can freeze the butterscotch bars. Place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

3. Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it’s one that can be used for baking.

4. What can I use instead of butterscotch chips?

You can substitute butterscotch chips with white chocolate chips or even caramel bits for a similar sweet flavor.

5. How do I know when the bars are done?

The bars are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the edges should be golden brown.

6. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, if you’d like to make a larger batch, simply double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch baking dish, though you may need to adjust the baking time.

7. Can I add other mix-ins?

Feel free to get creative! Adding dried fruit like cranberries or raisins, or even swirls of peanut butter, can add another layer of flavor to the bars.

8. Can I use a different type of sugar?

You can substitute white sugar with coconut sugar or another unrefined sugar, but this may slightly change the texture and flavor.

9. Can I skip the nuts altogether?

Yes, you can absolutely make these bars nut-free. The butterscotch chips alone will still give plenty of flavor and texture.

10. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars keep well for a few days, so they can be made in advance and stored at room temperature.

Conclusion

Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars are a classic, comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With a rich butterscotch flavor, chewy texture, and a touch of crunch from the nuts, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Simple to make and easy to customize, these bars are a delicious, nostalgic dessert that will always have a place in your baking rotation.

Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars

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Author: Paula
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 16 bars
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars are a chewy, buttery dessert that combines the rich flavor of butterscotch chips with a delightful crunch from optional pecans or walnuts. This simple, nostalgic recipe is perfect for any occasion, offering a perfect balance of sweet and buttery flavors. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these bars are a crowd-pleaser and a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth and well-blended.
Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully combined.
Fold in mix-ins: Fold in the butterscotch chips and chopped nuts (if using).
Bake the bars: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and slice: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares.

Notes

Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months by placing them in an airtight container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: Approx. 200 kcal (1 bar)