Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars Recipe

Get ready to fall in love all over again with these irresistible Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars, a classic Southern treat that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. With every bite, you’re wrapped in the perfect combination of rich, buttery sweetness and gooey butterscotch goodness that’s simply unforgettable. These bars aren’t just a dessert; they’re a joyful trip down memory lane filled with comforting flavors and tender texture. Whether you’re sharing them with family or sneaking a square for yourself, these bars bring a bit of Southern magic to any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be intimidated by the list because these ingredients are simple, straightforward pantry staples that come together to create that perfect balance of flavor, chewiness, and golden color in these butterscotch bars.

• Unsalted butter (1 cup / 2 sticks): Using softened butter helps create a tender and moist texture in the bars.
• Light brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Brings a subtle molasses flavor and chewiness that’s signature to these bars.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Adds sweetness and helps achieve that just-right caramelized edge.
• Large eggs (2): Provide structure and richness for that chewy but tender bite.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the butterscotch and adds warm aromatic depth.
• All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups): The base that holds everything together with just enough structure.
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Lightens the dough slightly and aids in browning.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and amplifies the flavors.
• Butterscotch chips (1 cup): The star ingredient that melts into pockets of golden, caramel-rich bliss.

How to Make Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Start by beating the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This crucial step takes about 3 to 5 minutes on medium speed and sets the stage for tender, chewy bars packed with flavor.

Step 2: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth mixture. Then stir in the vanilla extract, which heightens the butterscotch notes and brings a warm, inviting aroma to the batter.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately

Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. This simple but important step ensures the leavening agent and salt are evenly spread through the dough, contributing to an even texture and flavor in each bar.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed, gently mixing until just combined. Overmixing here can toughen the bars, so fold carefully to maintain that soft chew.

Step 5: Stir in the Butterscotch Chips

Use a spatula to fold in the butterscotch chips evenly throughout the dough. These chips offer those luscious pockets of sweetness that make Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars so addictive.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing and flouring it or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal. Spread the dough evenly, pressing it gently with your fingers or the back of a spoon. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the edges are golden and a toothpick comes out with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool Before Cutting

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan to set properly. Cutting too soon will cause crumbling, so patience here rewards you with perfect, clean squares every time.

How to Serve Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate can add an elegant touch and an extra hint of sweetness to your butterscotch bars, making them even more irresistible to the eye and the palate.

Side Dishes

Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream for an indulgent treat that balances the rich butterscotch flavor with creamy coolness.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider cutting the bars into bite-sized pieces for a party platter or layering them between parchment sheets as a gift-ready stack tied with a pretty ribbon. You could even serve them warm with a side of espresso for a cozy afternoon pick-me-up.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, store your Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and chewy for 3 to 4 days, perfect for snacking whenever that sweet craving hits.

Freezing

If you want to keep them longer, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to 2 to 3 months — just thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

For a warm, freshly baked feel, simply microwave a bar for 10 to 15 seconds. The butterscotch chips will soften delightfully, giving you that ooey-gooey experience all over again.

FAQs

Can I substitute salted butter for unsalted in this recipe?

Yes! Using salted butter will add a subtle salty depth that complements the sweetness beautifully, but you might want to reduce or omit the added salt to maintain balance.

What if I don’t have butterscotch chips?

You can substitute with chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist, or try caramel bits, but just keep in mind these will alter the traditional flavor of the Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars.

How do I prevent the bars from turning out dry?

Be careful not to overbake. Keep an eye near the 20-minute mark and remove the bars when the edges turn golden brown but the center still looks slightly soft.

Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Absolutely! Adding chopped walnuts or pecans gives a nice crunch and extra flavor that pair perfectly with the sweet butterscotch chips.

Are these bars gluten-free?

This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, you can experiment with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend, but results may vary slightly in texture.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re new to the magic of Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars or a longtime fan, this recipe truly delivers a nostalgic treat that’s easy to make and hard to resist. From that first warm bite to the lingering buttery sweetness, these bars are a perfect way to bring a little Southern charm into your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try them and add your own special twist to this comforting classic.

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