Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars
Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars: A Delightful Nostalgia Trip
Once known solely for her soulful country tunes, Trisha Yearwood has firmly established herself as a culinary sensation with her successful cooking show. Her recipes, like the Baked Bean Casserole and Charleston Cheese Dip, have become fan favorites, and her Butterscotch Bars are no exception. These bars offer a soft, sweet experience with the comforting flavors of nutty oats, peanut butter, and rich butterscotch, making them a dessert triumph.
There’s something inherently nostalgic about butterscotch. Perhaps it’s the memory of grandmas offering those classic hard candies, but the flavor in these bars evokes a timeless appeal. No gimmicks here, just the cherished taste of peanut butter and butterscotch, and the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a must-try because it combines simplicity with a delightful flavor profile. The bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re having a cozy night in or entertaining guests. The rich blend of butterscotch and peanut butter offers a comforting sweetness that feels like a warm hug. Plus, they’re quick to prepare, making them an ideal choice for busy schedules.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Electric mixer
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Sifter
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, at room temperature, plus more for greasing pan
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter, divided
- 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
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons milk
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of the peanut butter.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture and blend until combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the oatmeal.
- Gradually add the flour and oatmeal mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until well combined.
- Spread the batter evenly across the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with butterscotch chips.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and the remaining 1/4 cup of peanut butter until smooth. Pour this glaze evenly over the warm bars.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Tips for Success
To ensure your butterscotch bars come out perfect every time, make sure your butter is at room temperature before you begin mixing. This will help achieve a smooth, creamy batter. Also, be cautious not to overbake the bars; they should be golden brown around the edges for the best texture.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding chopped nuts or a sprinkling of sea salt on top for a salty-sweet twist. If you prefer a chocolate flavor, you can substitute some or all of the butterscotch chips with chocolate chips.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving of these butterscotch bars is a treat, offering a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Please keep in mind that these are indulgent treats, perfect for enjoying in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, natural peanut butter can be used, but it may alter the texture slightly as it is less creamy than traditional peanut butter.
Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.
What can I use instead of butterscotch chips?
If you’re not a fan of butterscotch, you can use white chocolate chips or caramel chips as a substitute.
Conclusion
Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars are a delightful blend of nostalgia and flavor, perfect for any dessert lover. We hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy every bite of these sweet, nutty bars. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures and any creative variations you come up with. Happy baking!