Name: Delight in Trisha Yearwood's Butterscotch Bars: Easy Comfort
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (Provides richness and moisture; use unsalted for better salt control.); 1 cup light brown sugar (Adds sweetness; packed.); 1/2 cup granulated sugar (Sweetens the bars.); 2 large eggs (Binds ingredients together.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Enhances flavor.); 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (Provides structure.); 1 teaspoon baking soda (Leavening agent.); 1/2 teaspoon salt (Balances sweetness.); 1 cup butterscotch chips (Primary flavoring ingredient.)

As I sifted through my grandmother’s recipe box, a familiar scent wafted through the kitchen, wrapping me in a warm embrace of nostalgia. Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars have a way of doing just that—inviting a sense of home and comfort with each bite. These easy dessert bars are not only perfect for spontaneous gatherings but are also a delightful way to relive fond memories and create new ones. With their rich, buttery flavor and chewy texture, they offer a satisfying treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re whipping them up for a family get-together or simply want to indulge after a long day, these bars promise to satisfy your sweet tooth without fuss. Ready to uncover the secret to this beloved classic? Let’s dive into making these heavenly Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars together!

Why Are These Butterscotch Bars Irresistible?

Nostalgic Comfort: Each bite of Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars transports you to cherished childhood memories, evoking the warmth of homemade treats.

Simplicity at Its Finest: With just a handful of pantry staples, this easy dessert comes together quick, making it perfect for busy evenings or last-minute get-togethers.

Rich, Buttery Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and butterscotch chips delivers a robust sweetness that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Versatile Delight: Customize your bars by adding nuts or drizzling melted chocolate on top, keeping your dessert game fresh and exciting!

Crowd Pleaser: Whether at a party or a family dinner, these bars will disappear fast, making them a guaranteed hit.

Freezer Friendly: Don’t finish the entire batch in one sitting? No problem! They store beautifully, ensuring you have a sweet treat ready for whenever the craving strikes.

Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars Ingredients

For the Batter

Unsalted Butter (1 cup / 2 sticks) – Provides richness and moisture to the bars; always use unsalted for better control over the salt balance.
Light Brown Sugar (1 cup, packed) – Adds sweetness and a deep caramel-like flavor; dark brown sugar can enhance richness as a substitute.
Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup) – Sweetens the bars while contributing to a chewy texture.
Large Eggs (2) – Binds the ingredients together, giving structure; beat until pale yellow for better incorporation.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Enhances flavor; higher quality vanilla extract leads to a more aromatic result.
All-Purpose Flour (2 1/4 cups) – Provides structure; can’t be replaced with cake flour for this recipe.
Baking Soda (1 teaspoon) – Leavening agent for a soft texture; avoid overmixing after adding to activate effectively.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon) – Balances sweetness, essential for flavor depth.
Butterscotch Chips (1 cup) – Primary flavoring ingredient that provides bursts of sweet flavor; mix in chocolate chips for added richness if desired.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, take a 9×13 inch baking pan and grease it lightly with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to make removing the butterscotch bars easier after baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of packed light brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Continue mixing for 3-5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a fluffy base for your Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars.

Step 3: Mix in Eggs and Vanilla
Add 2 large eggs to the butter and sugar mixture, incorporating them one at a time. Beat well after each addition until fully mixed, and then add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. The mixture should look smooth and slightly glossy, with a creamy consistency.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This step is crucial to evenly distribute the leavening agent and ensure your bars have a proper rise without any lumps in the dry mix.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Slowly fold the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients, doing this gently to avoid overmixing. Stop as soon as you see no streaks of flour; the dough for your butterscotch bars should be just combined, looking thick and somewhat chunky.

Step 6: Add Butterscotch Chips
Now, fold in 1 cup of butterscotch chips using a spatula or wooden spoon. Make sure the chips are evenly distributed throughout the dough, ensuring bursts of sweet butterscotch flavor in every bite of your bars.

Step 7: Bake
Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking pan, spreading it evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, and the edges will be golden brown.

Step 8: Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the butterscotch bars to cool completely in the pan. This will take about 30-40 minutes. Once cooled, carefully lift the bars out using the parchment overhang and cut them into squares for a delightful treat.

Expert Tips for Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

Stay Vigilant: Keep an eye on your bars while baking; overbaking can dry them out. Aim for a soft, chewy texture by checking for doneness a few minutes early.
Quality Counts: Use high-quality butterscotch chips for the best flavor. Cheaper versions often lack that rich, comforting taste you’re after in Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars.
Proper Cooling: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan to ensure they set up nicely. This will help you achieve cleaner, more uniform cuts.
Mix Carefully: When combining wet and dry ingredients, be gentle! Overmixing can lead to tough bars, robbing them of their ideal chewy texture.
Chill for Firmness: If you find the batter too sticky to spread, chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes can make a world of difference.

How to Store and Freeze Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

Room Temperature: Keep your butterscotch bars stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their chewy texture and flavor.

Fridge: For extended freshness, you can store the bars in the fridge for about one week. Ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: Freeze individual bars wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a zip-top bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature whenever you’re ready to enjoy!

Reheating: If you prefer warm bars, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, just until heated through. Enjoy the comforting taste of these Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars every time!

Make Ahead Options

These Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during hectic weeks! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the ingredients, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. The butterscotch chips can also be added just before baking to maintain their texture. When ready to bake, pour the chilled batter into your pan and follow the usual baking instructions. For even greater flexibility, baked bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days on the counter, or you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months! Just allow them to come to room temperature or reheat briefly for that fresh-from-the-oven taste everyone loves.

What to Serve with Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

Indulging in these sweet treats opens the door to a delightful spread that truly satisfies and complements their warm, gooey goodness.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the richness of the bars, enhancing the overall dessert experience with its coolness.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the bars for an extra layer of indulgence that echoes the butterscotch flavor delightfully.
Fresh Berries: Serve with a bowl of mixed fresh berries for a burst of tartness, adding a refreshing contrast to the sweet, buttery bars.
Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee pairs beautifully, its bold flavor enhancing the sweetness of the bars while inviting cozy conversations.
Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of chocolate sauce takes these bars to a whole new level of decadence, perfect for chocolate lovers who can’t resist a sweet twist.
Milk: Don’t forget a glass of cold milk! It’s the classic companion to these bars, perfect for washing down each chewy bite while evoking childhood nostalgia.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy element, making each bite feel more luxurious and celebratory.

These suggestions create a comforting and inviting dessert table, providing a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love!

Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars Variations

Feel free to tailor these delightful treats to suit your tastes and cravings, adding your own personal touch!

Nutty Addition: Fold in 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and texture contrast.
Decadent Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars to transform them into a rich, indulgent treat that balances sweetness beautifully.
Sweet and Salty: Sprinkle a little sea salt on top before baking, creating a perfect sweet and salty flavor combination that’s hard to resist.
Festive Flair: During the holidays, mix in 1 cup of dried cranberries and a teaspoon of orange zest to celebrate the season with joyfully bright flavors.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Make these bars gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy them.
Coconut Twist: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist that brings new dimensions to the classic butterscotch flavor.
Spiced Up: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice into the flour mixture for an autumn-inspired flavor that warms the soul.
Fruit Fusion: Swirl in 1/2 cup of mashed bananas or applesauce for a natural sweetness and moistness that enhances the texture.

For further inspiration, consider pairing these bars with a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream—perfect for creating a comforting dessert experience reminiscent of your favorite childhood sweets.

Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars Recipe FAQs

What type of butterscotch chips should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for high-quality butterscotch chips. Cheaper varieties may lack the rich, comforting taste that truly elevates Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars. Brands like Guittard or Ghirardelli are great choices for their deep flavor profiles.

How should I store my butterscotch bars?
You can keep your butterscotch bars stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to extend their freshness, consider refrigerating them for about a week. Just make sure they’re well-wrapped to prevent drying out!

Can I freeze Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars?
Yes, you can freeze these delightful bars! Wrap each bar in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a zip-top bag. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for the best results.

What should I do if my bars turn out too dry?
If your butterscotch bars are too dry, it may be due to overbaking. Keep a close eye on them the next time you make them; aim for a soft center and take them out of the oven as soon as a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. If you face this issue often, try reducing the baking time by a minute or two and testing for doneness earlier.

Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?
Very much! You can make these butterscotch bars gluten-free by substituting regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. I recommend using a blend that contains xantham gum for the best texture. This slight alteration allows everyone to indulge in this nostalgic treat without worry!

What can I do if I don’t have unsalted butter?
No problem! If you’re out of unsalted butter, you can use salted butter instead. Just be mindful to cut back slightly on the added salt in the recipe to maintain the right balance of flavors. Each bar will still be rich and delicious!