Butterscotch Bliss: Delicious Recipes Featuring Butterscotch Candy
Butterscotch, with its rich, buttery, and deeply caramelized flavor, is a beloved candy that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. While enjoying butterscotch candies straight from the bag is always a treat, incorporating them into recipes elevates desserts and even savory dishes to a whole new level. This article explores a delightful array of recipes showcasing the versatility of butterscotch candy, providing detailed instructions and tips for creating irresistible treats.
Understanding Butterscotch Candy
Before diving into the recipes, let’s briefly understand what butterscotch candy is. Traditional butterscotch is made by boiling butter and brown sugar together, often with the addition of corn syrup, vanilla, and salt. The mixture is cooked until it reaches a hard-crack stage, resulting in a brittle, intensely flavored candy. Commercial butterscotch candies often contain similar ingredients, though variations exist.
For these recipes, you can use store-bought butterscotch candies, either hard candies or butterscotch chips. Hard candies will need to be crushed or melted, while butterscotch chips can be used as-is, depending on the recipe.
Recipes Featuring Butterscotch Candy
Here’s a collection of delectable recipes highlighting the unique flavor of butterscotch:
1. Butterscotch Blondies
Blondies are the vanilla counterpart to brownies, and butterscotch takes them to another level of deliciousness.
Ingredients:
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
* 1 ½ cups packed light brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* ½ teaspoon salt
* 1 cup crushed butterscotch candies (about 10-12 hard candies)
* ½ cup butterscotch chips (optional, for extra butterscotch flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Add Butterscotch: Fold in the crushed butterscotch candies and butterscotch chips (if using).
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. The edges should be golden brown.
7. Cool and Cut: Let the blondies cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.
Tips and Variations:
* For chewier blondies, underbake them slightly.
* Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added texture and flavor.
* Drizzle melted butterscotch over the cooled blondies for an extra touch of decadence.
* Substitute dark brown sugar for light brown sugar for a richer, more molasses-like flavor.
2. Butterscotch Cookies
Classic cookies get a butterscotch makeover, resulting in chewy, flavorful treats.
Ingredients:
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* ¾ cup granulated sugar
* ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 ½ cups butterscotch chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Add Butterscotch Chips: Fold in the butterscotch chips.
7. Drop by Spoonfuls: Drop by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
8. Bake: Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may still look slightly soft.
9. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips and Variations:
* Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
* Sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the cookies before baking for a salty-sweet flavor contrast.
* Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added texture and flavor.
* Substitute some of the butterscotch chips with white chocolate chips for a different flavor combination.
3. Butterscotch Fudge
This rich and creamy butterscotch fudge is a decadent treat that’s perfect for gifting or indulging yourself.
Ingredients:
* 3 cups granulated sugar
* ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter
* ⅔ cup evaporated milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 (12 ounce) package butterscotch chips
* Optional: ½ cup chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds)
Instructions:
1. Prepare Pan: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. Combine Sugar, Butter, and Milk: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the butter is melted.
3. Boil: Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly. Use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches 235°F (113°C), the soft-ball stage.
4. Remove from Heat: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butterscotch chips. Stir until the butterscotch chips are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
5. Add Nuts (Optional): If using nuts, stir them into the fudge mixture.
6. Pour and Cool: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Let the fudge cool completely at room temperature, or in the refrigerator for faster setting.
7. Cut and Serve: Once the fudge is firm, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut the fudge into squares and serve.
Tips and Variations:
* Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent scorching.
* Stir the mixture constantly while cooking to ensure even heating and prevent burning.
* If the butterscotch chips don’t melt completely, place the saucepan over low heat and stir until smooth.
* Add a pinch of salt to the fudge mixture to enhance the sweetness.
* For a marbled effect, swirl in some melted chocolate or peanut butter after pouring the fudge into the pan.
4. Butterscotch Rice Krispie Treats
A delightful twist on the classic Rice Krispie treats, featuring the rich flavor of butterscotch.
Ingredients:
* 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
* 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
* 1 (10 ounce) package marshmallows
* 1 cup butterscotch chips
Instructions:
1. Prepare Pan: Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the marshmallows and stir constantly until completely melted. Remove from heat.
3. Stir in Butterscotch Chips: Stir in the butterscotch chips until melted and smooth.
4. Add Rice Krispies: Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the melted marshmallow mixture and stir until well coated.
5. Press into Pan: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and gently press down evenly.
6. Cool and Cut: Let the treats cool completely before cutting them into squares.
Tips and Variations:
* Use fresh marshmallows for the best results.
* Don’t overcook the marshmallows, as this can make the treats hard.
* Press the mixture gently into the pan to avoid making the treats too dense.
* Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled treats for an extra touch of decadence.
* Add sprinkles or other toppings for a festive look.
5. Butterscotch Pudding Parfaits
A layered dessert that combines the creamy texture of pudding with the crunch of cookies and the sweetness of butterscotch.
Ingredients:
* 1 (3.4 ounce) package instant butterscotch pudding mix
* 3 cups milk
* 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
* 1 cup crushed butterscotch cookies (like Lorna Doone or shortbread)
* ½ cup butterscotch chips, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare Pudding: In a large bowl, whisk together the butterscotch pudding mix and milk according to the package directions. Let the pudding set for 5 minutes.
2. Fold in Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding.
3. Assemble Parfaits: In individual serving glasses or bowls, layer the crushed butterscotch cookies, butterscotch pudding mixture, and repeat the layers. Start with cookies and end with pudding.
4. Garnish: Garnish with butterscotch chips, if desired.
5. Chill: Chill the parfaits for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips and Variations:
* Use different types of cookies for added flavor and texture.
* Add a layer of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts.
* Drizzle caramel sauce over the parfaits for extra sweetness.
* Use sugar-free pudding mix for a lighter version.
* Substitute the whipped cream with yogurt or Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.
6. Butterscotch Sauce
A versatile sauce that can be drizzled over ice cream, cakes, brownies, or pancakes.
Ingredients:
* 1 cup packed light brown sugar
* ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
* ½ cup heavy cream
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, heavy cream, and salt.
2. Cook: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved.
3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from Heat: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Cool: Let the sauce cool slightly before serving. It will thicken as it cools.
Tips and Variations:
* Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent scorching.
* Adjust the cooking time to achieve your desired consistency. Cook for longer for a thicker sauce.
* Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy flavor.
* For a salted butterscotch sauce, use salted butter instead of unsalted butter.
* Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
7. Butterscotch Hot Chocolate
A comforting and indulgent beverage that’s perfect for a cold day.
Ingredients:
* 4 cups milk
* 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
* ½ cup butterscotch chips
* ¼ cup heavy cream
* Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
* Butterscotch candies, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat Milk: In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming, but not boiling.
2. Add Chocolate and Butterscotch Chips: Add the chopped chocolate and butterscotch chips to the milk and whisk constantly until melted and smooth.
3. Stir in Cream: Stir in the heavy cream.
4. Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream and butterscotch candies, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
* Use different types of chocolate for varying degrees of sweetness and bitterness.
* Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
* Substitute some of the milk with coffee for a mocha flavor.
* Add a shot of espresso or coffee liqueur for an extra kick.
* Top with marshmallows or a dusting of cocoa powder.
8. Butterscotch Pecan Pie Bars
All the flavors of pecan pie in an easy-to-eat bar form, with an added butterscotch twist!
Ingredients for Crust:
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
* 1/4 cup powdered sugar
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 3-5 tablespoons ice water
Ingredients for Filling:
* 1 cup packed light brown sugar
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1/4 cup heavy cream
* 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 1/2 cups pecan halves, coarsely chopped
* 1 cup butterscotch chips
Instructions:
For the Crust:
1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
2. Cut in Butter: Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Ice Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Press into Pan: Press the dough into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan. Prick the crust all over with a fork.
5. Pre-bake: Bake the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Let cool slightly.
For the Filling:
1. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, melted butter, heavy cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Add Pecans and Butterscotch: Stir in the chopped pecans and butterscotch chips.
3. Pour over Crust: Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust.
4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. The center should be slightly jiggly but not liquid.
5. Cool and Cut: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.
Tips and Variations:
* Use a food processor to make the crust quickly.
* Toast the pecans before adding them to the filling for a deeper flavor.
* Substitute some of the pecans with other nuts, such as walnuts or almonds.
* Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars for an extra touch of decadence.
9. Butterscotch Layer Cake
A show-stopping layer cake with a rich butterscotch flavor in both the cake and the frosting.
Ingredients for Cake:
* 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 3/4 cups packed light brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup buttermilk
* 1 cup butterscotch chips
Ingredients for Butterscotch Frosting:
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 4 cups powdered sugar
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 cup butterscotch sauce (recipe above)
Instructions:
For the Cake:
1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Fold in Butterscotch Chips: Fold in the butterscotch chips.
7. Divide Batter: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
8. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Butterscotch Frosting:
1. Cream Butter: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy.
2. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth.
3. Add Cream and Vanilla: Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract and beat until light and fluffy.
4. Stir in Butterscotch Sauce: Stir in the butterscotch sauce.
Assemble the Cake:
1. Level Cakes: Level the tops of the cooled cakes with a serrated knife, if necessary.
2. Frost: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread with a generous layer of butterscotch frosting. Top with the second cake layer and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
Tips and Variations:
* Use a turntable to easily frost the cake.
* Chill the frosting for 30 minutes before frosting the cake for a firmer consistency.
* Drizzle with extra butterscotch sauce or sprinkle with chopped butterscotch candies.
* Add a layer of salted caramel between the cake layers for an extra decadent treat.
Tips for Working with Butterscotch Candy
* Crushing Hard Candies: Place hard butterscotch candies in a resealable bag and crush them with a rolling pin or meat mallet. Be careful not to crush them too finely, as you want some texture in your recipes.
* Melting Butterscotch Chips: Melt butterscotch chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until smooth. Alternatively, melt them in a double boiler over low heat.
* Storing Butterscotch Treats: Store butterscotch treats in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator, depending on the recipe.
Conclusion
Butterscotch candy offers a delightful and versatile flavor that can enhance a wide range of recipes. From blondies and cookies to fudge and parfaits, these recipes showcase the unique sweetness and buttery richness of butterscotch. So, grab a bag of your favorite butterscotch candies and start experimenting in the kitchen to create your own butterscotch-inspired masterpieces! Whether you are baking for a special occasion or just looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, these butterscotch recipes are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the sweet and comforting flavor of butterscotch in every bite!