Old Fashioned Soft Butterscotch Cookies Recipe

If you’ve ever wished for a cookie that wraps you in warm, buttery sweetness with every bite, then you’re in for a treat with these Old Fashioned Soft Butterscotch Cookies. They blend that nostalgic charm of classic baking with the gooey, buttery goodness of butterscotch chips that melt ever so tenderly, delivering a soft texture that feels like a cozy hug in cookie form. Each bite bursts with caramel notes balanced perfectly by just the right touch of salt, making these cookies a timeless favorite that’s impossible not to devour.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are delightfully simple yet each one plays a key role in creating the perfect Old Fashioned Soft Butterscotch Cookies. From the rich brown sugar adding moisture and caramel notes to the little pop of butterscotch chips that form the heart of these treats, you’ll see why this classic recipe is so beloved.

• 1 cup packed brown sugar: Adds moisture and that signature caramel-like sweetness, so be sure to pack it firmly for the best flavor.
• 1/2 cup salted butter (1 stick), softened: Softened butter creates a tender, chewy texture and its saltiness enhances the cookie’s overall taste.
• 1 large egg: Binds everything together while lending to a soft, rich texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Imparts a warm, aromatic flavor that perfectly complements the sweet butterscotch.
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides essential structure and texture; measuring accurately is key to avoid dense cookies.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and spread nicely while contributing to softness.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies the butterscotch flavor.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and a touch of crispness to the cookie edges.
• 12-ounce package of butterscotch chips: The star ingredient, delivering pockets of sweet, buttery goodness throughout each cookie.

How to Make Old Fashioned Soft Butterscotch Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This sets the stage for perfect baking by ensuring an even heat that crisps edges while keeping the centers soft and chewy.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, combine the softened butter with both brown and granulated sugars. Beat them together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy. This crucial step traps air that will help create the soft texture that makes these cookies so irresistible.

Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Next, stir in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and cohesive. The egg enriches the dough and helps bind all the flavors, while the vanilla adds an inviting aroma that hints at the sweet journey ahead.

Step 4: Mix in the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt for even distribution. Gradually add this dry mix to your wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to keep the cookies tender and avoid heaviness.

Step 5: Fold in the Butterscotch Chips

Now for the fun part: gently fold in the butterscotch chips, ensuring they are evenly nestled throughout the batter. These pockets of buttery sweetness are the essence of Old Fashioned Soft Butterscotch Cookies.

Step 6: Scoop and Shape the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out dough and roll into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet with at least two inches of space between, giving the cookies room to spread to soft, glorious perfection.

Step 7: Bake to Soft Perfection

Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes. Watch for golden brown edges while keeping the centers tender and soft. Remember, they will continue to set slightly on the baking sheet after removal, so take them out just before they look fully done.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let your newly baked Old Fashioned Soft Butterscotch Cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling. Whether you enjoy them warm or at room temperature, they’re guaranteed to delight your taste buds.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Soft Butterscotch Cookies

Garnishes

Sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on the cookies just as they come out of the oven to add a sophisticated contrast to the sweet butterscotch. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a charming, festive touch.

Side Dishes

Serve these soft, buttery cookies alongside a cold glass of milk for the ultimate classic pairing or enjoy them with a cozy cup of chai or coffee that complements the caramel flavors wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, sandwich two cookies together with a generous smear of vanilla or cinnamon buttercream. You can also crumble them over your morning yogurt or ice cream for an indulgent, nostalgic crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Old Fashioned Soft Butterscotch Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and delicious for up to five days, making them the perfect treat to enjoy throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to keep these cookies longer, freeze the baked cookies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed inside a freezer-safe container or bag. They hold their softness wonderfully for up to three months.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy frozen cookies, thaw them at room temperature or warm them briefly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This brings back that freshly baked softness and gooey butterscotch goodness.

FAQs

Can I substitute the brown sugar with white sugar?

You can, but brown sugar is key for that rich moisture and caramel flavor in Old Fashioned Soft Butterscotch Cookies. Using white sugar alone will give less depth and a drier texture.

Why do my butterscotch chips melt and lose shape?

Butterscotch chips melt more quickly than chocolate chips due to their higher butter content. To minimize this, avoid overbaking and mix them in gently to keep pockets of chips throughout.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

If your cookies spread too thin, check that your butter wasn’t too warm or melted, and ensure you are spacing the dough balls properly. Using slightly chilled dough can also help control spread.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace all-purpose flour with an equal amount of a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum to help maintain the right texture.

How do I achieve even softer cookies?

For extra softness, try adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to the flour mixture; it’s a baker’s secret for tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies like these Old Fashioned Soft Butterscotch Cookies.

Final Thoughts

Old Fashioned Soft Butterscotch Cookies capture the magic of simple ingredients lovingly transformed into something truly special. Whether shared at a family gathering or enjoyed quietly with your favorite drink, these cookies bring warmth, sweetness, and unforgettable comfort in every bite. Give this classic recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite cookie!

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