Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars Recipe

If you have a soft spot for desserts that feel like a warm hug, then Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars are about to become your new obsession. These bars bring together the creamy richness of peanut butter with the deep, buttery sweetness of butterscotch in a way that’s absolutely irresistible. The tender oat-studded cookie base, topped with gooey butterscotch and finished with a luscious peanut butter glaze, creates layers of flavor and texture that make every bite a little celebration. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is pure joy on a pan!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is a wonderful first step to making these bars unforgettable. Each one plays a crucial role—from the buttery base providing richness, to peanut butter blending creamy notes, to oatmeal adding a bit of wholesome texture. You’ll see how these simple staples combine into something extraordinary.

• Butter (1/2 cup, softened): Brings rich flavor and tender crumb to the bars.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Adds crunch and sweet balance.
• Light brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Contributes moisture and a hint of caramel depth.
• Creamy peanut butter (3/4 cup, divided): Imparts creamy, nutty flavor and ties the dessert together.
• Large egg (1): Helps bind all the ingredients perfectly.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall sweetness and aroma.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup): Forms the sturdy yet tender base of the bars.
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Lightens the texture for just the right chew.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and elevates flavors.
• Quick-cooking oatmeal (1/2 cup): Adds chewy texture and a wholesome touch.
• Butterscotch chips (1 cup): Provide that signature buttery, caramel-like sweetness in each bite.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup): Key for creating the smooth, sweet glaze topping.
• Milk (4 tablespoons): Helps whisk the glaze to creamy perfection.
• Creamy peanut butter (1/4 cup, for glaze): Adds a rich, luscious finish on the very top.

How to Make Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and make sure to grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. This prep ensures your bars won’t stick and come out easily with beautiful edges. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in the final presentation!

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and half of the peanut butter using an electric mixer until the texture becomes light and fluffy. This whipping stage aerates the mixture, giving the bars their soft bite. Next, add the egg and vanilla extract and continue mixing until everything blends harmoniously.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt to ensure an even rise and no clumps. Stir in the quick-cooking oatmeal for added chewy texture and a hearty feel. These dry ingredients form the deliciously tender core of the bars.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. You want to achieve a thick, slightly sticky dough that will hold the butterscotch chips and baking form perfectly.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

Spread the batter evenly across your prepared pan. This even layer allows for uniform baking and that perfectly thin yet chewy consistency. Then sprinkle the butterscotch chips on top and gently press them into the batter, so they melt beautifully while baking.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, keeping an eye on the edges to make sure they turn a gorgeous golden brown. The center might appear slightly soft but will firm up as it cools. A toothpick inserted in the middle should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

While your bars bake, whip up a simple but decadent glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and the remaining peanut butter until smooth and creamy. This glaze is what takes Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars from tasty to unforgettable.

Step 8: Add the Finishing Touch

Right after removing the bars from the oven, pour the warm glaze evenly over the top and spread using a spatula. The warmth helps the glaze soak in slightly, infusing each bite with extra peanut butter goodness while it cools.

Step 9: Cool Before Slicing

Patience is key here! Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting. This step ensures clean slices and allows the glaze to fully set so every piece looks as amazing as it tastes.

How to Serve Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars

Garnishes

You can elevate these bars with a sprinkle of chopped roasted peanuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar for that elegant touch. A few mini butterscotch chips scattered on top add visual appeal and an extra pop of sweetness.

Side Dishes

Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the richness. For a cozy twist, serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or milk—ideal for soaking or dunking!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the bars on a rustic wooden board for a casual vibe, or stack small squares on delicate dessert plates for a fancy gathering. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the glaze or add a swirl of caramel for a decadent presentation that wows guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. This way, every bite remains just as soft and flavorful as when they came fresh from the oven.

Freezing

If you want to stash these bars for longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap then foil before freezing. They hold up well for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

To revive the warm, gooey feeling, gently reheat individual bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This quick step makes them taste freshly baked, bringing out the peanut butter and butterscotch notes beautifully.

FAQs

Can I substitute crunchy peanut butter in Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars?

Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture contrast with little peanut bits throughout, making each bite even more interesting.

Are these bars gluten-free?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour and quick oats, which typically contain gluten. To make it gluten-free, swap in a certified gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free oats.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, doubling the recipe works well. Just be sure to use a larger baking dish and check baking time closely, as thicker layers may require more time.

What makes these bars different from regular peanut butter bars?

Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars stand out through the perfect marriage of creamy peanut butter and sweet butterscotch chips, along with the unique peanut butter glaze that finishes them off with a luscious, rich flavor.

Can I use natural peanut butter for the glaze?

Natural peanut butter can be used but it might make the glaze a bit thinner and oilier. Stir well, and you might want to slightly reduce the milk to achieve the right consistency.

Final Thoughts

Once you taste Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars, you’ll understand why they’re a beloved classic. They’re cozy, comforting, and packed with such rich flavors that it’s hard to stop at just one. So go ahead, bake a batch and watch these bars disappear in no time—your new favorite dessert is waiting!

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