Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that brings warmth and comfort, look no further than Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars. These delightful bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering. With their chewy texture and nutty flavor, they have quickly become a favorite in my home. The combination of peanut butter and butterscotch chips creates an irresistible flavor that will leave everyone reaching for seconds!

Every time I make these bars, I’m reminded of the joy of sharing something delicious with loved ones. They are so easy to whip up, and the best part is that they stay fresh for days! You can enjoy them as an afternoon snack or serve them at your next potluck. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become your go-to dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to prepare: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these bars ready in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and nutty flavors of these butterscotch bars.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare these bars ahead of time for parties or snacks throughout the week.
• Irresistible flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and butterscotch chips is simply divine!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars is a breeze! You probably have most of these simple, wholesome items in your pantry already. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

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, allowing you to customize it to your liking! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Mix in chocolate chips: If you love chocolate, feel free to substitute half of the butterscotch chips with chocolate chips.
• Change up the glaze: Swap out peanut butter in the glaze for almond butter for a different twist on flavor.
• Incorporate dried fruit: Add some raisins or dried cranberries for a pop of fruity sweetness.

How to Make Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

Step 1: Preheat your oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your butterscotch bars will bake evenly. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so that your delicious creation doesn’t stick!

Step 2: Cream together ingredients

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

Step 3: Add egg and vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. The egg adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients together while enhancing the flavor with its richness.

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 our bars to remain tender!

Step 5: Spread batter and add butterscotch chips

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Don’t forget to top it off with those luscious butterscotch chips! They will melt slightly during baking and create pockets of gooey goodness.

Step 6: Bake to perfection

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are lightly browned. Keep an eye on them as they bake; you want them soft in the center with just a hint of golden edges.

Step 7: Prepare the glaze

While your bars are cooling slightly, mix together confectioners’ sugar, remaining peanut butter, and milk in a small bowl until smooth. This sweet glaze adds an extra layer of indulgence!

Step 8: Glaze and cool

Pour the glaze over your warm bars—let it drip down into every nook and cranny—and allow everything to cool completely before cutting them into squares. Enjoy every bite of these delightful Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars!

Pro Tips for Making Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

Baking these delightful butterscotch bars is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to ensure your treats turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ingredients like butter and eggs blend more easily when they’re at room temperature, creating a smoother batter and better texture in your bars.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined helps maintain the chewy texture of the bars. Overmixing can lead to denser, tougher treats.

• Check for doneness carefully: Ovens can vary in temperature, so start checking your bars around 20 minutes. They should be lightly browned on the edges but still soft in the center.

• Let them cool completely before cutting: This allows the glaze to set properly and helps you achieve clean cuts. Warm bars might crumble or fall apart when sliced.

• Store properly for freshness: Keep your butterscotch bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just thaw before serving!

How to Serve Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

These butterscotch bars are not only delicious on their own but can also be served in fun and creative ways that will impress your family and friends!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped peanuts or walnuts on top of the glaze for added crunch and flavor.
• Drizzle of chocolate: A light drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate adds a rich contrast to the sweetness of the bars.
• Whipped coconut cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped coconut cream for a creamy, tropical twist that complements the peanut butter nicely.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the bars, offering a light and healthy contrast.
• Vanilla almond milkshake: Creamy and dreamy, this shake brings out the nutty flavors of the bars while providing a delightful beverage option.
• Coffee or herbal tea: Pairing these bars with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances their flavors and makes for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits alongside your butterscotch bars for a satisfying dessert option that adds texture and nutrition.

Enjoy making and sharing these scrumptious Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars! They’re sure to become a cherished recipe in your home.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week or serve them at gatherings. Here’s how to store them properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the bars, where they’ll keep well for about a week.

Freezing

• Freeze individual bars by wrapping each one in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just label your containers with the date!

Reheating

• To enjoy warm bars, simply microwave a single bar for about 10-15 seconds.
• If reheating multiple bars, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delightful treats!

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy in Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars?

Yes, you can definitely substitute crunchy peanut butter for creamy if you prefer that texture! It will add an extra nutty crunch to your bars.

What makes Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars so special?

These bars combine the rich flavors of butterscotch and peanut butter, creating a chewy treat that’s both comforting and indulgent. The glaze on top adds an extra layer of sweetness that completes the experience!

Can I substitute brown sugar with another sweetener in this recipe?

While brown sugar contributes to the unique flavor and texture of Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars, you can try using coconut sugar as a healthier alternative. However, it may slightly alter the taste.

How long do Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars last?

When stored properly, these delicious bars can last up to a week in the refrigerator or up to two months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars! They bring together comforting flavors that are sure to please everyone. Whether you’re enjoying them with family or sharing with friends, these delightful treats are bound to become a favorite. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—happy baking!