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Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars

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These chewy, buttery butterscotch bars are a Southern dessert classic inspired by Trisha Yearwood’s beloved recipe. Made with simple pantry staples like brown sugar, butter, and butterscotch chips, these bars come together quickly and are perfect for bake sales, holiday gatherings, or a comforting treat any day of the week.

Ingredients

Scale

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

1 cup packed light brown sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

½ cup butterscotch chips

½ cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Pan

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  • Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and light brown sugar. Stir until smooth and fully incorporated.

  • Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

  • Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 4: Fold in Extras

  • Gently fold in the butterscotch chips and chopped pecans (if using) until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bake

  • Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.

  • Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool & Slice

  • Let the bars cool completely in the pan.

  • Once cooled, cut into 12 squares and serve.

Notes

  • For extra chewy bars, remove from the oven just as the center sets—don’t overbake.

  • Prefer a nut-free version? Simply skip the pecans.

  • Want to switch it up? Substitute chocolate chips, white chocolate, or chopped toffee bits for variety.

  • Make ahead tip: These bars freeze well! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

  • Gluten-free option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.

Find it online: https://claradelish.com/trisha-yearwoods-butterscotch-bars/