If you’re looking for a dessert that combines creamy peanut butter, sweet butterscotch, and a chewy texture, Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars are the perfect treat! This recipe brings together rich flavors with a simple preparation process that’s perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether you’re making these bars for a family gathering, a potluck, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, they’re bound to be a hit!
Why You Will Love Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars
- Rich and Decadent Flavors: The combination of peanut butter, butterscotch, and a creamy glaze creates a dessert that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is great for bakers of all skill levels.
- Customizable: You can add your own twist with nuts, chocolate chips, or different glazes.
- Perfect Texture: These bars are chewy yet soft, with a delightful crunch from the oatmeal.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These bars can be stored or frozen, making them a convenient option for busy days.
Ingredients Notes
For the Bars:
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the salt level in the recipe. Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming.
- Sugars: The combination of granulated sugar and light brown sugar gives the bars a perfect balance of sweetness and moisture.
- Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter works best, but crunchy peanut butter can add texture.
- Oatmeal: Quick-cooking oatmeal is recommended for a finer texture, but old-fashioned oats can be used for a heartier chew.
- Butterscotch Chips: These add sweetness and flavor; substitute with chocolate chips if desired.
For the Glaze:
- Powdered Sugar: Sift to ensure a smooth glaze.
- Milk: Adjust the amount for your preferred glaze consistency.
- Peanut Butter: Adds creaminess and flavor to the glaze.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls (2 large)
- Hand or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Sifter (optional, for powdered sugar)
How to Make Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream together the butter, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and ½ cup of peanut butter until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the quick-cooking oatmeal.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Spread and Top: Spread the dough evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the butterscotch chips over the top.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Make the Glaze: While the bars are still warm, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and the remaining ¼ cup of peanut butter in a small bowl until smooth.
- Glaze the Bars: Pour the glaze evenly over the warm bars, spreading it gently with a spatula.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares or rectangles.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving:
- Serve these bars as is, or pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Garnish with a drizzle of melted chocolate or additional butterscotch chips for a decorative touch.
Storage:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Extend freshness by refrigerating the bars for up to a week.
- Freezer: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for added crunch.
- Chocolate Swap: Substitute the butterscotch chips with dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and certified gluten-free oats to make these bars suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Helpful Notes
- Consistency Matters: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the bars tender.
- Glaze Tip: If the glaze is too thick, add a splash of milk. If too thin, whisk in a bit more powdered sugar.
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the edges—they should be golden but not overly dark.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Trisha Yearwood: Always use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor, especially when it comes to peanut butter and butterscotch chips.
- Ina Garten: Let the butter reach room temperature naturally for a better texture in your batter.
- Sally McKenney (Sally’s Baking Addiction): For chewier bars, don’t overbake—pull them out as soon as the edges turn golden brown.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
Yes, but ensure it’s well-stirred and smooth to avoid a grainy texture.
2. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a larger pan or bake in two separate batches to avoid overcrowding.
3. What can I use instead of butterscotch chips?
You can substitute with chocolate chips, caramel bits, or even dried fruits like cranberries.
4. Are these bars suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, they contain no meat or animal-derived ingredients aside from dairy.
5. How can I make the bars less sweet?
Reduce the amount of butterscotch chips or glaze to tone down the sweetness.
Make Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars part of your dessert rotation and enjoy the perfect mix of rich flavors and chewy texture. They’re versatile, delicious, and sure to become a family favorite!
