Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars: 1 Blissful Bite

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Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars have become my go-to treat whenever I need a little comfort food. I first tried this Trisha Yearwood butterscotch bar recipe years ago, and it was an instant hit at a potluck. The aroma of warm butterscotch and peanut butter filling my kitchen is just heavenly, and that first bite – oh, it’s pure bliss! The chewy texture, the sweet glaze, and those gooey butterscotch chips make these bars absolutely irresistible. If you’re looking for an easy dessert that tastes like pure nostalgia, you’ve found it. Let’s get these bars in the oven!

Why You’ll Love Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

They are incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights.
The combination of peanut butter and butterscotch is a classic flavor pairing that never disappoints.
You get a wonderful chewy texture in every bite, making these bars so satisfying.
This Trisha Yearwood butterscotch bar recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
The sweet, buttery glaze adds an extra layer of deliciousness that elevates these bars.
They are a fantastic homemade dessert that tastes far better than store-bought.
Making these easy Trisha Yearwood butterscotch bars feels like a special treat for yourself and your loved ones.
The delightful aroma while baking will fill your home with warmth and anticipation.

Ingredients for Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making some of the best butterscotch bars around. This Trisha Yearwood dessert butterscotch bars recipe relies on pantry staples for its incredible flavor and texture.

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, at room temperature – crucial for creaming with sugars to create a tender base.
1/2 cup granulated sugar – adds sweetness and helps with browning.
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed – this is key for that signature chewy texture and rich, molasses-like flavor in these butterscotch blondies.
3/4 cup creamy peanut butter, divided – provides a nutty depth and contributes to the chewiness; we use 1/2 cup in the batter and save 1/4 cup for the glaze.
1 large egg – binds everything together and adds richness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances all the other flavors.
1 cup all-purpose flour – the structure for our bars.
1 teaspoon baking soda – helps the bars rise slightly and achieve the perfect chewy consistency.
1/4 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and brings out the butterscotch flavor.
1/2 cup quick-cooking oatmeal – adds a delightful chew and texture to the bars.
1 cup butterscotch chips – the star of the show, providing that unmistakable sweet, caramelized flavor.
1 cup powdered sugar – forms the base of our sweet, smooth glaze.
4 tablespoons milk – thins the powdered sugar for a pourable glaze.

How to Make Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

Let’s get baking! Making these Trisha Yearwood butterscotch bars is a straightforward process that yields incredibly delicious results. Follow these steps for the best homemade butterscotch bars.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and grease it well. For easy removal later, line it with parchment paper, making sure to leave an overhang on two sides – this is a handy trick for lifting the baked bars right out!
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. This dry mixture will form the structure of our bars.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed, until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creaming step is vital for a tender crumb.
Step 4: Beat in the 1 large egg, followed by the 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until everything is just combined and smooth.
Step 5: Gradually add the flour mixture from Step 2 to the wet ingredients in the large bowl. Mix on low speed until just combined – be careful not to overmix! Gently fold in the 1 cup butterscotch chips and the 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter. You’ll see those delicious chips distributed throughout the thick batter.
Step 6: Spread this glorious batter evenly into your prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. The kitchen will start smelling amazing!
Step 7: Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This is crucial for texture and for the glaze to set properly. Give them at least 1-2 hours.
Step 8: Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to carefully lift the entire slab of bars out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board.
Step 9: Now for that irresistible glaze! In a small bowl, whisk together the 1 cup powdered sugar, 4 tablespoons milk, and the remaining 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter until you have a smooth, pourable glaze.
Step 10: Pour the glaze evenly over the cooled bars, spreading it with a spatula. Let the glaze set completely before slicing your homemade Trisha Yearwood butterscotch bars into squares. Enjoy this delightful Trisha Yearwood dessert!

Pro Tips for the Best Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

To ensure your butterscotch bars turn out perfectly chewy and delicious every time, I’ve picked up a few tricks. These simple tips will help you achieve that signature Trisha Yearwood style.

Make sure your butter and peanut butter are truly at room temperature; this is key for proper creaming and a smooth batter consistency.
Don’t overbake! Keep an eye on the edges turning golden brown and the center still looking slightly soft. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
For the cleanest slices, let the bars cool completely before attempting to cut them, especially after applying the glaze.
Using good quality butterscotch chips makes a noticeable difference in the final flavor. For more baking tips, check out our recipes section.

What’s the secret to perfect Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars?

The real secret to these Trisha Yearwood butterscotch bars lies in the balance of ingredients and not overbaking. The packed brown sugar and peanut butter contribute to that irresistible chewy texture, while the butterscotch chips provide the signature flavor.

Can I make Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars are fantastic for making ahead. You can bake them a day or two in advance and store them at room temperature before glazing. The glaze also holds up well when made a few hours ahead. For more information on our site, visit our about me page.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars?

The biggest pitfall is overbaking, which leads to dry bars. Also, ensure your butter is softened, not melted, for the best texture. Finally, resist the urge to cut them while they’re still warm and gooey! If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.

Best Ways to Serve Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

These delightful bars are fantastic on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a few other treats. For a truly classic experience, consider serving your Trisha Yearwood butterscotch bars with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The contrast in temperature and texture is heavenly! Another great idea is to enjoy them with a warm cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect afternoon pick-me-me-up. If you’re feeling adventurous, try them with a drizzle of chocolate ganache for an extra decadent dessert!

Nutrition Facts for Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown for these delicious Trisha Yearwood butterscotch bars, based on the provided recipe details.

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 325
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 31g
Sodium: 178mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For more details on our policies, please see our privacy policy.

How to Store and Reheat Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

Properly storing your Trisha Yearwood butterscotch bars ensures they stay delightfully chewy and fresh for days. After baking, it’s essential to let them cool completely before attempting to store them. This step is crucial for preventing a soggy bottom and ensuring the glaze sets firmly. Once cooled, you can cut them into squares or store the entire slab.

For short-term storage, place the bars in an airtight container. They will keep well at room temperature for about 3 to 4 days. If you need them to last longer, these Trisha Yearwood dessert butterscotch bars freeze beautifully. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. You can learn more about food storage on FoodSafety.gov.

To reheat, simply bring the bars back to room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying. If you’re craving a warm treat, you can gently warm them in a low oven (around 200°F or 95°C) for a few minutes, or microwave them for about 10-15 seconds. This method is perfect for reviving frozen bars as well.

Frequently Asked Questions About Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

Can I substitute the peanut butter in Trisha Yearwood butterscotch bars?

Yes, you can! If you have a peanut allergy or prefer a different flavor, almond butter or cashew butter work wonderfully in these Trisha Yearwood butterscotch bars. For a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter is a great substitute. Just be sure to use creamy versions for the best texture in both the bars and the glaze.

What makes Trisha Yearwood’s butterscotch bars so popular?

These Trisha Yearwood butterscotch bars are incredibly popular because they strike a perfect balance between sweet and savory flavors, with a wonderfully chewy texture. They’re also remarkably easy to make, using common pantry staples. This makes them an accessible and consistently delicious treat that brings comfort and nostalgia to many.

How do I get the perfect chewy texture in these butterscotch blondies?

Achieving that perfect chewy texture in your Trisha Yearwood easy butterscotch blondies comes down to a few key things. First, don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour. Second, pack your brown sugar firmly when measuring. Finally, and most importantly, avoid overbaking. Pull the bars out when the edges are golden but the center still looks a little soft; they’ll continue to set as they cool. For more baking insights, visit our sample page.

Can I add chocolate chips to this Trisha Yearwood recipe?

While the classic Trisha Yearwood butterscotch bars don’t typically include chocolate chips, adding them is a fantastic idea if you love that combination! You can fold in about 1/2 cup of semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips along with the butterscotch chips. This variation creates a delicious chocolate-butterscotch swirl that many people adore.

Variations of Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars You Can Try

While the classic Trisha Yearwood butterscotch bars are absolutely divine, there are so many fun ways to switch them up! Whether you’re looking to cater to dietary needs or just want to experiment with new flavors, these variations of the Trisha Yearwood blondie butterscotch bars recipe offer something for everyone.

Gluten-Free Version: Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free all-purpose baking blend. You might also need to slightly adjust the baking time, so keep an eye on them and use the toothpick test.
White Chocolate Macadamia Nut: Imagine these classic bars with a tropical twist! Replace half of the butterscotch chips with white chocolate chips and add about 1/2 cup of roughly chopped macadamia nuts to the batter. This makes for a wonderfully decadent Trisha Yearwood dessert butterscotch bars experience.
Salted Caramel Twist: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt over the glaze right after you pour it onto the bars. This enhances the sweetness and adds a sophisticated salty-sweet contrast that is truly divine.
Dairy-Free Adaptation: You can make these bars dairy-free by using a plant-based butter alternative, dairy-free butterscotch chips (many brands offer these!), and a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk for the glaze.