If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy to make yet decadently flavorful, Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars are the perfect choice. These bars combine the creamy richness of peanut butter with the sweet, buttery flavor of butterscotch, all wrapped up in a chewy oatmeal base. Perfect for any occasion, they’re a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to disappear quickly from the plate!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet and chewy texture with a buttery glaze that melts in your mouth.
- The combination of peanut butter and butterscotch creates a nostalgic, comforting flavor.
- Quick to prepare, making it a great go-to dessert for busy days.
- Perfect for sharing at gatherings, potlucks, or as a treat for yourself.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, at room temperature (plus extra for greasing the pan)
- 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
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons milk
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of the peanut butter using an electric mixer. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the quick-cooking oatmeal.
Step 5: Mix the Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture, stirring until just combined.
Step 6: Spread the Batter and Add Butterscotch Chips
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the butterscotch chips evenly over the top.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Make the Glaze
While the bars are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and remaining 1/4 cup peanut butter until smooth and creamy.
Step 9: Glaze the Bars
Once the bars come out of the oven, pour the glaze over the warm bars and spread evenly using a spatula.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, slice into squares and serve.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Medium bowl for dry ingredients
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Whisk
- Spatula
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy as a dessert with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Serve at parties, bake sales, or holiday gatherings.
- Pair with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
Storage
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months.
Variations
- Chocolate Twist: Replace butterscotch chips with chocolate chips for a classic peanut butter and chocolate combo.
- Nutty Add-In: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Salted Caramel: Drizzle a little salted caramel over the glaze for a rich, indulgent touch.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Holiday Style: Add red and green sprinkles to the glaze for a festive appearance.
Helpful Notes
- Use room-temperature ingredients for easier mixing and a smoother batter.
- To make slicing easier, allow the bars to cool completely before cutting.
- Quick-cooking oatmeal is ideal for texture, but old-fashioned oats can be used if lightly pulsed in a food processor.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Ina Garten: “Always measure your dry ingredients precisely when baking for consistent results.”
- Chef Rachael Ray: “Mix wet and dry ingredients until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.”
- Chef Trisha Yearwood: “Warm up the glaze slightly for easier spreading over the bars.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these bars taste even better the next day! Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
2. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a larger pan or bake in two 9×13-inch dishes.
3. What’s the best way to reheat them?
Warm individual bars in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
4. Can I substitute natural peanut butter?
Yes, but it may affect the texture slightly. Make sure to stir it well before using.
5. Can I use chunky peanut butter?
Yes, chunky peanut butter adds a nice texture with small peanut bits.
Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars are a dreamy, indulgent treat that’s as easy to make as they are to devour. Perfect for peanut butter lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike, these bars are sure to be a hit wherever you serve them. Give them a try, and enjoy every sweet bite!
