These butterscotch bars are a dreamy combination of sweet, nutty, and buttery flavors, elevated by a creamy peanut butter glaze. Perfect for any dessert table or an afternoon treat, they are quick to make and even quicker to disappear!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The combination of butterscotch and peanut butter is irresistibly sweet and satisfying.
- Easy to prepare with common pantry ingredients.
- Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a sweet indulgence at home.
- Freezes beautifully for make-ahead convenience.
- The glaze takes these bars from great to unforgettable.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Bars
- ½ cup (1 stick) butter, at room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter, divided
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup quick-cooking oatmeal
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons milk
- Remaining ¼ cup peanut butter
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and ½ cup of peanut butter until smooth.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the oatmeal.
- Mix Batter: Gradually add the flour and oatmeal mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until well incorporated.
- Spread and Top: Spread the dough evenly in the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the butterscotch chips on top.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Prepare Glaze: While the bars are still warm, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and remaining ¼ cup of peanut butter until smooth.
- Glaze Bars: Pour the glaze evenly over the warm bars.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: 12-16 bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Add ½ cup of chopped nuts to the batter for a crunchy texture.
- Swap butterscotch chips for white chocolate chips or chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
- Use natural peanut butter for a less sweet, more nutty taste.
- Replace quick-cooking oatmeal with rolled oats for added chewiness.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep refrigerated for up to 1 week for extended freshness.
- Freezer: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: If desired, microwave for 10-15 seconds to warm slightly before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, but it will add a crunchy texture to the bars and glaze.
2. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.
3. Can I skip the glaze?
The glaze enhances the flavor, but the bars are delicious even without it.
4. How do I prevent the butterscotch chips from sinking?
Toss the chips in a little flour before sprinkling them on top to help them stay in place.
5. What can I use instead of butterscotch chips?
White chocolate chips, caramel bits, or semi-sweet chocolate chips work well.
6. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time as needed.
7. What’s the best way to cut these bars neatly?
Let the bars cool completely, then use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean cuts.
8. Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly chewier.
9. Are these bars safe for nut allergies?
No, as peanut butter is a key ingredient. Consider substituting with a nut-free spread if necessary.
10. Can I add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg?
Absolutely! A teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg would complement the flavors nicely.
Conclusion
Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars are a perfect blend of sweet butterscotch and nutty peanut butter, topped with a luscious glaze that takes them to the next level. Whether for a family gathering, holiday treat, or a simple dessert craving, these bars are sure to delight. Try them today and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors!
Print
Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 bars 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars, a delightful blend of butterscotch chips and creamy peanut butter, topped with a rich peanut butter glaze. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with loved ones!
Ingredients
For the Bars:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter, divided
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup quick-cooking oatmeal
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons milk
- Remaining 1/4 cup peanut butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and ½ cup of peanut butter until smooth.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the oatmeal.
- Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until incorporated.
- Spread and Top: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared dish and sprinkle the butterscotch chips on top.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Prepare Glaze: While the bars are warm, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and remaining peanut butter until smooth.
- Glaze Bars: Pour the glaze evenly over the warm bars.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bars cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For added crunch, mix in ½ cup chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the batter.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week.
- These bars freeze well; wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
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