Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, then you are in for a treat with these Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars. They’re chewy, nutty, and packed with the delightful flavors of peanut butter and butterscotch chips. This recipe has been a favorite in my family for years, perfect for those busy weeknights or gatherings where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you bake these bars, they’ll disappear faster than you can say “delicious!”

These bars are not only easy to make but also bring a touch of Southern comfort to your dessert table. Whether it’s for a potluck, a cozy family dinner, or just because you need something sweet, these butterscotch bars will hit the spot every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have these bars ready in no time!
• Family-friendly treat: Everyone—kids and adults alike—will adore the rich flavors.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can bake them ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment.
• Irresistible flavor: The combination of peanut butter and butterscotch is simply heavenly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for these Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars are simple and wholesome. They come together beautifully to create a dessert that’s both satisfying and comforting.

For the Bars

• 1/2 cup butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 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
• 6 ounces butterscotch chips

For the Glaze

• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 4 tablespoons milk

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to customize your butterscotch bars:

• Add some crunch: Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra texture.
• Incorporate chocolate: Toss in some chocolate chips along with the butterscotch chips for a delicious twist.
• Make it fruity: Add dried fruits like cranberries or raisins to enhance the sweetness and add another layer of flavor.
• Spice it up: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile if you’re feeling adventurous!

How to Make Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Preheating ensures even baking, giving your bars that perfect chewy texture.

Step 2: Cream Together Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, cream together your butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of peanut butter until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into your batter, making your bars nice and soft.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in one large egg and one teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined. These ingredients add moisture and flavor; they are essential for creating that rich taste everyone loves.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together your dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt, and oatmeal. Gradually add this mixture to your wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those bars to stay soft!

Step 5: Bake It Up!

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan and sprinkle the butterscotch chips on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are lightly browned. The aroma will fill your kitchen with sweetness!

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

While your bars cool slightly, prepare the glaze by mixing together confectioners’ sugar, remaining peanut butter, and milk until smooth. This glaze adds an irresistible finish.

Step 7: Glaze Those Bars

Pour the glaze over the warm bars while they cool completely before cutting them into squares. This makes each bite even more delightful!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these amazing Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars!

Pro Tips for Making Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

Making these butterscotch bars is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate them to perfection!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures that your butter and peanut butter blend smoothly with the sugars, creating a fluffy texture that makes for moist bars.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bars instead of the chewy texture we love.

• Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your bars around the 20-minute mark. They should be lightly browned at the edges and set in the center.

• Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool completely before cutting helps maintain their shape and prevents them from crumbling.

• Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to get creative! Adding chopped nuts or dried fruit can introduce new flavors and textures that complement the butterscotch beautifully.

How to Serve Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

These butterscotch bars are not only delicious but also quite versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some ideas to make them shine at your next gathering!

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: A sprinkle of chopped peanuts or walnuts on top adds a delightful crunch and enhances the nutty flavor.
• Drizzle of Chocolate: A simple drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate over the bars adds a rich contrast to the sweetness of butterscotch.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: For an extra touch of indulgence, serve a dollop of whipped coconut cream alongside each bar.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the bars, providing a light and healthy contrast.
• Vanilla Almond Milk: This creamy beverage complements the flavors in your dessert while providing a soothing drink option.
• Coffee or Herbal Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs perfectly with these chewy treats, making for a cozy dessert experience.
• Ice Cream (Dairy-Free): For an indulgent twist, serve these bars with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream — it’s a match made in dessert heaven!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars are sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every gooey bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars are perfect for meal prep! They’re deliciously satisfying and can be made in advance, making them a great treat to have on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, place them in the refrigerator, where they will keep for about a week.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into squares before freezing for easy portioning.
• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the container with the date.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm bars, simply microwave a square for about 10-15 seconds.
• If you prefer a crispy edge, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars!

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes! While creamy peanut butter provides a smooth texture, crunchy peanut butter will add delightful bits of crunch that enhance the overall flavor.

What makes Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars special?

These bars combine rich butterscotch chips with creamy peanut butter, creating a sweet and nutty flavor profile that’s both comforting and irresistible!

How should I serve Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars?

These bars are fantastic on their own but can also be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzled with extra glaze for an indulgent treat!

Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts would complement the flavors beautifully. Just fold them into the batter before baking.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine! These Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars are not only easy to make but also perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether it’s a casual get-together or just a sweet treat after dinner, they’re bound to impress. Enjoy making these delightful bars, and don’t forget to savor every bite!