Butterscotch Brownies: A Rich, Chewy Treat You’ll Love

ByEmma

If you’re craving something sweet, buttery, and just a little nostalgic, butterscotch brownies are the answer. These golden, caramel-kissed bars are softer than traditional chocolate brownies but just as irresistible. After scouring recipes, testing techniques, and tasting way too many batches, I’ve perfected this recipe. Let’s bake!

Contents

Why Butterscotch Brownies?

Unlike fudgy chocolate brownies, these gems are chewy, buttery, and loaded with deep caramel flavor. They’re quicker to make than cookies (no scooping required!) and pair perfectly with coffee, ice cream, or—let’s be honest—eaten straight from the pan.

Pro Tip: Don’t confuse butterscotch with caramel! Butterscotch is made with brown sugar and butter, giving it a richer, more molasses-like taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what makes these brownies magic:

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted – The star! Don’t substitute margarine.
  • 1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar – Dark brown sugar works for a deeper flavor.
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature – Prevents a dense texture.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the butterscotch flavor.
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – Spoon and level to avoid dry brownies.
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder – Lifts the batter for a chewy-crisp edge.
  • 1/2 tsp salt – Balances the sweetness.
  • Optional: 1 cup chopped walnuts or butterscotch chips – For extra crunch or gooeyness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep & Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. The mix should look glossy and thick.

Pro Tip: Let the melted butter cool slightly before adding eggs to avoid scrambling them.

3. Add Dry Ingredients

Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Fold gently until just combined—overmixing leads to tough brownies. Stir in nuts or chips if using.

4. Bake to Perfection

Spread the batter into the pan (it’ll be thick). Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the edges are golden and a toothpick comes out mostly clean (a few crumbs are fine—they’ll firm up as they cool).

5. Cool & Slice

Let the brownies cool at least 20 minutes before slicing. (I know, it’s hard. But patience rewards you with clean squares!)

Serving & Storage

  • Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for next-level indulgence.
  • Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days (if they last that long).

Pro Tip: Microwave leftovers for 10 seconds to revive that fresh-from-the-oven softness.

Final Thoughts

These butterscotch brownies are a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert that feels like a hug in baking form. They’re perfect for potlucks, gifting, or curing a sweet tooth fast.

Got a twist you love? Try swapping butterscotch chips for white chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking. Now, go forth and bake—your kitchen (and taste buds) will thank you!

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