Butterscotch brownies are a sweet, buttery treat that’s easy to make and always a hit. Whether for a special occasion or a simple snack, these brownies are sure to become a favorite.
Why We Love These Butterscotch Brownies!
What makes butterscotch brownies stand out? Here are a few reasons they’re a must-bake:
Rich and Buttery Flavor
The combination of brown sugar and butter forms the heart of these brownies, creating a luxurious, caramel-like depth of flavor. The richness of the butter enhances the sweetness of the brown sugar, resulting in a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s absolutely irresistible. Every bite is a perfect balance of sweetness and savory richness that makes these brownies stand out.
Quick and Easy
With just a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, these butterscotch brownies come together quickly and effortlessly. Whether you’re in a rush or craving a homemade dessert, this recipe is your go-to for a fast and easy baking session. No complicated techniques are required—just mix, bake, and enjoy!
Versatile Treat
These brownies are incredibly versatile. They make for an impressive dessert at family gatherings or special events, a satisfying snack for an afternoon pick-me-up, or even a thoughtful homemade gift. The best part? These brownies consistently delight guests at any gathering or celebration. Add a personal twist, and you’ve got a treat that suits any celebration.
Nostalgic Charm
Butterscotch brownies carry a nostalgic charm that evokes warm memories of home-baked goodness. The sweet, comforting aroma filling your kitchen as they bake reminds you of simpler times and classic recipes passed down through generations. This timeless dessert offers a sense of connection to the past while still delighting taste buds today.
These brownies are not just dessert—they’re a little piece of happiness you can share with loved ones or savor all to yourself.
Ingredients for butterscotch brownies
To make these irresistible butterscotch brownies, gather the following ingredients:
- Unsalted Butter
Melted unsalted butter is essential for achieving a rich, buttery flavor and moist texture in these brownies. Substituting with salted butter is possible, but be sure to reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe by half. - Brown Sugar
Packed light brown sugar provides the signature butterscotch flavor with its molasses content. If substituted with dark brown sugar, your brownies will have a deeper, more intense molasses taste. - Pure Vanilla Extract
This enhances the butterscotch flavor, giving the brownies a warm, aromatic finish. Avoid using artificial vanilla, as it may alter the flavor profile. - All-Purpose Flour
This forms the base of the brownies, providing structure. Be careful to measure it correctly (using the scoop-and-level method) to avoid overpacking, which can result in dense brownies. - Baking Powder
Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring the brownies rise slightly for a soft texture. Do not substitute with baking soda, as it will alter the flavor and texture. - Butterscotch Morsels
These provide bursts of sweetness and reinforce the butterscotch theme. White chocolate chips or toffee bits can be substitutes if unavailable.
How to Make Butterscotch Brownies
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over for easy removal.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This step ensures your brownies will have that signature chewy texture.
- Mix in each egg individually: then stir in the vanilla extract until well combined. Make sure everything is well incorporated.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Using a spatula, gently fold in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix just until no streaks of flour remain—overmixing can make your brownies tough.
- Add Butterscotch Chips: Fold in the butterscotch morsels, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake: Transfer your brownie mixture to the lined pan and smooth the surface. Let it bake for 35-40 minutes – when you test it with a toothpick, it should have just a few soft crumbs clinging to it.
- Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Slice into squares and enjoy!
Expert Tips for Perfect Butterscotch Brownies
- Avoid Overmixing: Overworking the batter after adding the dry ingredients can result in dense brownies. Use light, careful strokes until the ingredients just come together.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality butter and vanilla extract for the best flavor.
- Neat Slicing: For clean edges, use a sharp, non-serrated knife and wipe it clean between cuts.
- Extra Butterscotch: Sprinkle a few more morsels on top of the batter before baking for a visually appealing and flavorful finish.
- Halfway into baking: spin the pan around to help the brownies cook uniformly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature to prevent the batter from curdling.
Skipping the Parchment Paper: Without it, removing the brownies can be a challenge.
Overbaking: Watch closely during the last few minutes of baking to avoid drying out your brownies.
Inaccurate Measuring: Level your flour with a knife to avoid overpacking, which can lead to dry brownies.
Variations to Try for butterscotch brownies
Nutty Delight
Enhance the texture and flavor of your butterscotch brownies by folding in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter. The rich, nutty crunch pairs beautifully with the buttery sweetness of the butterscotch, making every bite more satisfying. For an extra layer of flavor, lightly toast the nuts before adding them to the mix.
Salted Caramel
Elevate your brownies with a touch of indulgence by drizzling caramel sauce over the batter before baking. Once baked and slightly cooled, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top. This sweet-and-salty combination balances the richness of the butterscotch and creates a gourmet dessert experience.
Double Chocolate
For chocolate lovers, add ½ cup of mini chocolate chips along with the butterscotch morsels. The contrast between the melty chocolate pockets and the sweet butterscotch chunks creates a delightful harmony of flavors. You can also sprinkle a few extra chips on top before baking for a polished look.
Coconut Infusion
Bring a tropical twist to your brownies by incorporating ½ cup of shredded coconut into the batter. The subtle sweetness and unique texture of the coconut blend seamlessly with the butterscotch, creating a dessert that feels both classic and exotic. To amplify the flavor, use toasted coconut flakes as a garnish.
Serving Suggestions
Butterscotch brownies are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to suit any occasion.
- Warm and Decadent: Serve the brownies warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The heat from the brownies slightly melts the ice cream, creating a rich, indulgent dessert that’s perfect for special occasions.
- Cozy Companion: Pair the brownies with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a comforting treat. This combination works beautifully as a mid-morning snack or a relaxing after-dinner indulgence.
- Elegant Touch: Lightly dust the tops of the brownies with powdered sugar before serving. This simple addition gives them a classic, elegant look that’s ideal for dinner parties or holiday gatherings.
- Bite-Sized Fun: Cut the brownies into small, bite-sized squares and arrange them on a dessert platter. This option is perfect for potlucks, parties, or events where guests can enjoy multiple treats in one sitting.
How to Store Butterscotch Brownies
Room Temperature
To keep your butterscotch brownies fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If stacking the brownies, place a sheet of parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. Store the container in a cool, dry location, ensuring it is kept away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Stored this way, your brownies will stay delicious for up to 5 days.
Freezing Option
For longer storage, freeze the brownies to enjoy them later:
- Individually wrap each brownie in plastic wrap to protect them from freezer burn.
- Transfer the wrapped brownies to a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring you remove any excess air before sealing.
- Mark the container with the date, and store it in the freezer for up to three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy, let the brownies thaw at room temperature for about an hour. For a warm treat, heat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.
FAQs About Butterscotch Brownies
Can dark brown sugar be substituted for light brown sugar?
Yes, you can! Dark brown sugar is an excellent substitute for light brown sugar in this recipe. It contains more molasses, giving the brownies a deeper, richer flavor with slightly more moisture. This small change can enhance the caramel-like taste of the butterscotch brownies.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Look for one that contains xanthan gum or another binder to ensure the brownies hold together well. Gluten-free butterscotch brownies can be just as soft and delicious as the original version.
Can I double this recipe?
Certainly! To double the recipe, use a 9×13-inch pan instead of a 9-inch square pan. Spread the batter evenly in the larger pan and bake at the same temperature (350°F/175°C) for approximately 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on the edges to ensure even baking.
What if I don’t have butterscotch morsels?
No problem! If butterscotch morsels aren’t available, you can substitute them with white chocolate chips, caramel chips, or even toffee bits for a similar flavor profile. These alternatives still deliver that sweet, buttery taste that makes these brownies so special.
More Brownies recipes you will love!
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Butterscotch brownies Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup butterscotch morsels
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups packed brown sugar
Instructions
- Prepare Your Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra paper on the sides for easy removal.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth and glossy for a chewy texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the flour, baking powder, and salt with a spatula, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Add Butterscotch Chips: Fold the butterscotch morsels into the batter, ensuring even distribution.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes, checking with a toothpick—there should be a few soft crumbs on it.
- Cool Completely: Let the brownies cool in the pan, then lift them out using the parchment paper. Slice into squares and enjoy!