There’s something comforting about a batch of freshly baked butterscotch cookies that fills your home with warmth and sweetness. In this butterscotch Cookies Recipe, you will discover how the golden, rich flavor of butterscotch perfectly complements a tender, chewy cookie. Perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these cookies make a delightful treat that anyone with a sweet tooth will adore.
During family gatherings, it was always a pleasure to watch my grandmother whip up a batch of these delicious cookies. Her kitchen would transform into a playground of butterscotch aromas, and she would share stories of how her mother taught her this recipe. Those moments ingrained the love for creating and sharing food in me, and this Cookie Recipe became our family’s way of passing down love across generations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes this butterscotch Cookies Recipe a must-try? First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, even for beginners in the kitchen. The ingredients are simple, likely right there in your pantry. The flavor is not overly sweet—just the right hint of butterscotch that leaves you wanting another bite. Additionally, they are versatile and can be customized with your favorite add-ins, like nuts or chocolate chips, adding a personal touch to your cookies. Finally, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gift, a teatime snack, or just an everyday treat.
Ingredients Notes
The key to creating the perfect butterscotch cookies lies in the quality of your ingredients. Start with fresh butter—it should be unsalted and at room temperature for the best texture. Brown Sugar gives depth to the flavor, while granulated sugar adds the right crispness. For the butterscotch flavor, use good-quality butterscotch chips or even homemade butterscotch. Vanilla extract elevates the overall taste, and a dash of sea salt balances the sweetness. Don’t forget the flour—it should be all-purpose—but you can substitute half with whole wheat for a nuttier flavor.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures an even bake and prevents sticking.
Step 2
Cream the butter and sugars together in a large bowl until light and fluffy. This could take about 5 minutes and is crucial for achieving that perfect texture.
Step 3
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, enhancing the cookie’s aroma.
Step 4
Combine the dry ingredients—flour, baking soda, and salt—in a separate bowl. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the butterscotch chips gently with a spatula.
Step 5
Scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between each cookie as they spread during baking. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Let the cookies cool slightly before transferring them to a wire rack.
Storage Options
These butterscotch cookies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Want to make a larger batch? Freeze the Cookie Dough in a sealed bag. When you’re ready to bake, thaw the dough overnight in the fridge. Baked cookies can also be frozen—individually wrap them in plastic and place them in a freezer bag, ensuring they remain delicious for up to three months. To reheat, you can pop them in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.
Variations & Substitutions
This butterscotch cookies recipe is easily adaptable. Consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch. Want to change the flavor? Swap butterscotch chips for white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks. For a healthier twist, you can replace half of the all-purpose flour with oat flour and reduce the sugar slightly. For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with coconut oil. The versatility ensures everyone can enjoy this treat, no matter their dietary preferences.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are a hit no matter the occasion. Serve them as an afternoon snack with a cold glass of milk or a steaming cup of coffee. They’re a perfect addition to your holiday cookie platter or as a thoughtful homemade gift. You can also serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for a delightful dessert. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these cookies are the ultimate comfort food.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies gluten-free? Yes, to make gluten-free butterscotch cookies, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Ensure your other ingredients, like baking soda and butterscotch chips, are verified gluten-free.
Can I replace the butterscotch chips with another type of chip? Absolutely! Feel free to substitute butterscotch chips with your favorite variety, such as chocolate chips, caramel chips, or even a combination for a twist in flavor. Each chip type offers a unique taste, enhancing the enjoyment of your cookies.
What’s the secret to keeping cookies soft even after a few days? To maintain softness, store the cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread. The moisture from the bread helps keep your cookies tender longer. You can also slightly underbake the cookies, ensuring the centers remain soft.
How do I avoid cookies spreading too much during baking? To prevent excessive spreading, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. Ensure your butter is not too soft; it should hold its shape when pressed. Using parchment paper as opposed to a greased baking sheet also helps cookies maintain form.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled if you need a larger batch for events or sharing. Just make sure you have enough baking sheets ready, and consider baking in batches if your oven cannot accommodate all at once.
Butterscotch Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 2 large eggs at room temperature
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually add the flour to the mixture, stirring just until incorporated.
- Fold in the butterscotch chips.
- Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
