Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as comforting as a warm hug, then these Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars are just what you need. I discovered this recipe on one of those cozy evenings when the rain was tapping against my window, and I craved something sweet to brighten up the day. They’re not just delicious; they have a way of bringing everyone together, making them perfect for family gatherings or simple weeknight treats.

These bars combine creamy peanut butter with rich butterscotch chips and a sweet glaze that will make your taste buds dance. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why they hold a special place in my heart—and why they will surely become a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time! With just 15 minutes of prep, you can pop these bars in the oven and enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and butterscotch is a hit with both kids and adults. These bars are sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, potluck, or just a fun family night at home, these bars fit right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them ahead of time and store them for whenever you need a sweet treat—no last-minute stress here!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s get started by gathering some simple and wholesome ingredients. You probably have most of these already in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these tasty Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars:

For the Bars

• 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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add Some Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Mix Up the Chips: Substitute half of the butterscotch chips with chocolate chips for a delicious twist.
• Go Nut-Free: If you’re avoiding nuts, simply use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
• Add a Flavor Boost: Sprinkle some cinnamon into the batter for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your bars bake evenly and come out perfectly chewy. While that heats up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so nothing sticks!

Step 2: Cream Together Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of peanut butter until it’s light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which helps give your bars that wonderful texture.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in one large egg and the vanilla extract until everything is well combined. The egg acts as a binding agent here while adding moisture—a key component for those chewy bars we’re aiming for!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and oatmeal. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients until just combined. Be gentle here; overmixing can lead to tough bars!

Step 5: Spread Batter and Add Chips

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan. Don’t forget to sprinkle those butterscotch chips on top—they’re essential for that melty goodness!

Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown

Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on those edges; they should be lightly browned while the center remains soft.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

While your bars are cooling slightly, mix together confectioners’ sugar, remaining peanut butter (don’t skimp!), and milk for the glaze. This luscious topping makes every bite even more delightful.

Step 8: Glaze and Cool

Pour that sweet glaze over the warm bars and let everything cool completely before cutting them into squares. Patience might be hard here, but letting them cool ensures clean cuts!

Now you’re ready to enjoy some scrumptious Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars!

Pro Tips for Making Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

Baking these butterscotch bars is a delightful experience, and with a few insider tips, you can elevate your treats to new heights!

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the butter and peanut butter blend smoothly with the sugars, ensuring a light and fluffy texture in your bars.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to prevent dense bars. Overmixing can lead to tough baked goods.

• Check for doneness with a toothpick: Insert it into the center of the bars; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. This helps prevent overbaking.

• Let them cool completely: Allowing your bars to cool in the pan before cutting ensures cleaner slices and a better texture.

• Store correctly: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness. This keeps them chewy and delicious!

How to Serve Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars

These butterscotch bars are not only tasty on their own but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some great ideas to present them beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle chopped peanuts or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Chocolate drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate adds an extra layer of sweetness and elegance.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of berries, melons, and citrus balances the sweetness of the bars while adding vibrant color to your plate.
• Vanilla coconut ice cream: This creamy treat pairs wonderfully with warm bars, creating a delightful contrast in temperatures and textures.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup complements the rich flavors of butterscotch, making for a cozy dessert experience.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits as a refreshing side that contrasts nicely with the chewy bars.

With these serving suggestions, your Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars will surely shine at any gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars are perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy them throughout the week or serve them at gatherings!

Storing Leftovers

• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator where they will last up to a week.
• To maintain their freshness, consider placing parchment paper between layers of bars.

Freezing

• Allow the bars to cool completely before freezing.
• Cut into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

• For a warm treat, microwave individual bars for about 10-15 seconds.
• If reheating multiple bars, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delicious Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars!

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture contrast to your butterscotch bars.

What makes Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars special?

These bars combine the rich flavors of butterscotch and peanut butter into perfectly chewy treats that evoke Southern comfort. They’re sure to please everyone!

Can I substitute the oatmeal with something else?

Yes! You can replace the oatmeal with an equal amount of finely chopped nuts or leave it out entirely if preferred.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about trying these Trisha Yearwood Butterscotch Bars! With their gooey centers and sweet glaze, they truly are a special treat. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, these bars bring warmth and joy to any occasion. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your own variations!