Crispy Butterscotch Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these bars strike the perfect balance of sweet and buttery flavor with a soft, chewy center and a slightly crisp top. They’re quick to prepare and require just a handful of pantry staples, which makes them a go-to recipe for me. I can serve them plain or dress them up with toppings like ice cream or whipped cream. Either way, they always get rave reviews.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup butterscotch chips

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

2. In a large bowl, I mix the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.

3. I add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.

4. In another bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

5. I slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.

6. I fold in the butterscotch chips.

7. I spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. I let the bars cool in the pan before cutting into squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

When I want extra crunch, I stir in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts. For chocolate lovers, I add ½ cup of chocolate chips along with the butterscotch chips. If I want something less sweet, I reduce the sugar to 1½ cups and sometimes add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, spiced twist.

Storage/reheating

I store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, I freeze them for up to 2 months—wrapped tightly in plastic and placed in a freezer-safe bag. To serve, I let them thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the microwave for that fresh-baked taste.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, I often bake them a day in advance. They stay moist and chewy if stored properly.

Can I substitute margarine for butter?

Yes, but I prefer butter because it gives a richer flavor and better texture.

Do I have to use butterscotch chips?

Not at all—I sometimes use white chocolate, peanut butter chips, or a mix of different baking chips.

How do I know when the bars are done?

I look for a golden top and check with a toothpick—it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.

Can I cut this recipe in half?

Yes, I bake half the recipe in an 8×8-inch pan for smaller batches.

Conclusion

These crispy butterscotch bars are a simple yet decadent treat that never disappoints. With their chewy texture, buttery sweetness, and endless variations, they’ve become one of my go-to dessert recipes. Whether I serve them warm with ice cream or pack them up for a party, they always disappear fast.

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