Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

Delight your taste buds with Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars, a treat that perfectly blends creamy peanut butter and sweet butterscotch chips. These chewy bars are not only a fantastic dessert but also a great addition to any gathering or celebration. Their rich flavor and delightful texture make them an irresistible choice for cookie lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, these bars come together quickly, making them perfect for busy bakers.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and butterscotch creates a rich, nutty sweetness that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, potlucks, or as an after-school snack, these bars fit any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleasing: With 24 servings, they’re ideal for sharing with family and friends.
• Delicious Glaze: A creamy glaze drizzled on top adds an extra layer of flavor and sweetness.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these delightful Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment ensures your baking process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Baking dish (9×13-inch)
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time when creaming together ingredients for a light and fluffy batter.
• Baking dish: A sturdy 9×13-inch pan allows the bars to bake evenly, ensuring the best texture.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for folding in ingredients without deflating the batter, which helps maintain chewiness.

Ingredients

For these delicious Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars, gather the following ingredients:

For the Base

• 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

How to Make Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Together Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, cream together:
1. The room temperature butter,
2. Granulated sugar,
3. Brown sugar,
4. And 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 3: Mix in Egg and Vanilla

Beat in:
1. The large egg,
2. And vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together:
1. All-purpose flour,
2. Baking soda,
3. And salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 5: Add Oatmeal and Butterscotch Chips

Fold in:
1. The quick-cooking oatmeal,
2. And gently spread the batter into the prepared pan, topping it with butterscotch chips.

Step 6: Bake the Bars

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

While baking, prepare your glaze by mixing together:
1. Confectioners’ sugar,
2. Remaining peanut butter,
3. And milk until smooth.

Step 8: Glaze and Cool

Once baked, pour the glaze over warm bars. Allow them to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delicious Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars, perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own!

How to Serve Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them at home, these bars are sure to impress. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy a warm butterscotch bar with your favorite cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.

As Dessert After Dinner

• Serve these bars as a sweet ending to your dinner party; their rich flavor pairs well with ice cream or whipped cream.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Add an extra layer of indulgence by drizzling melted chocolate sauce over the top before serving.

Topped with Fresh Fruit

• Fresh berries or sliced bananas make a refreshing topping, adding color and a fruity contrast to the rich bars.

Packaged as Gifts

• Cut the bars into squares, package them in decorative boxes, and give them as homemade gifts during holidays or special occasions.

How to Perfect Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

To ensure your Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to keep the bars chewy and prevent them from becoming tough.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for even cooking.
• Cool Before Cutting: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting to get clean edges and prevent crumbling.

Best Side Dishes for Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

While Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars shine on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the bars.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing option that contrasts beautifully with the dense texture of the bars.
3. Whipped Cream: Fluffy and airy, whipped cream is perfect for topping off each slice of butterscotch bar.
4. Coffee Cake: Enhance your dessert table with a slice of coffee cake for added richness.
5. Nutty Granola: Serve alongside for a crunchy texture that complements the soft butterscotch bars.
6. Chocolate Chip Cookies: A fun treat combination that will satisfy any sweet tooth craving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars, it is essential to avoid common mistakes that can affect the final product.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure the right amounts for a successful recipe.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough bars. Mix until just combined for a chewy texture.
• Skipping the greasing step: Not greasing your baking dish can result in sticking. Always grease or line your pan to ensure easy removal.
• Baking at incorrect temperatures: An oven that is too hot or cold can ruin your bars. Always preheat your oven correctly and use an oven thermometer if needed.
• Cutting bars too soon: It may be tempting to slice into warm bars, but this can lead to crumbling. Allow them to cool completely for cleaner cuts.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

• Wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm bars for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a bar in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars.

What makes Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars special?

These bars combine creamy peanut butter with sweet butterscotch chips, creating a delightful flavor that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Can I customize Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for different flavors and textures.

How do I know when my butterscotch bars are done baking?

Look for lightly browned edges and set centers. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend while maintaining the same measurements.

Final Thoughts

Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars are a delightful treat that balances sweetness with nutty flavors. Their chewy texture and simple ingredients make them perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize these bars with your favorite mix-ins!