Peanut Butter Butterscotch Bars: The Ultimate Dessert Recipe
Introduction to Peanut Butter Butterscotch Bars
Are you searching for a delightful dessert that combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the sweet, buttery flavor of butterscotch? Look no further! These Peanut Butter Butterscotch Bars are the perfect treat for any occasion. They are easy to make, and the combination of flavors will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering, a potluck, or simply enjoying a sweet snack at home, these bars are sure to impress!
A Personal Story Behind My Peanut Butter Butterscotch Bars Journey
Growing up, my grandmother always had a knack for making the most delicious treats. One of her specialties was a peanut butter dessert that I couldn’t get enough of. As I grew older, I wanted to create my own version that incorporated butterscotch, a flavor that always reminded me of cozy family gatherings. After several experiments in the kitchen, I finally perfected this Peanut Butter Butterscotch Bars recipe. Now, every time I make them, I am reminded of those cherished moments spent with family, and I hope they bring you the same joy!
What Makes This Peanut Butter Butterscotch Bars Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out for its simplicity and the harmonious blend of flavors. The creamy peanut butter pairs perfectly with the rich butterscotch chips, creating a dessert that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Plus, the addition of quick-cooking oats adds a lovely texture to the bars, making them more than just your average sweet treat. They are also incredibly versatile—feel free to add your favorite nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist!
The Full Peanut Butter Butterscotch Bars Recipe
Ingredients
- Heaping 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup quick-cooking oats (not old-fashioned whole rolled)
- Pinch of salt, optional and to taste
- 3/4 cup butterscotch chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square pan with aluminum foil and spray it with cooking spray; set aside.
- In a mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat on medium-high speed for about 3 minutes until creamy. Tip: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for best results.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture. Beat on medium-high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 more minutes.
- Mix in the flour, oats, and optional salt on low speed until just combined, about 1 minute. Tip: Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.
- Spread the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the butterscotch chips evenly over the top.
- Bake for approximately 25 minutes, until the edges are slightly firm and the center is just set. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but no batter. Tip: Keep an eye on the bars towards the end of baking to prevent overcooking.
- While the bars bake, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, and cream. Beat on medium-high speed until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes.
- Once the bars are out of the oven, immediately spread the frosting over the top. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving. Tip: The bars can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Peanut Butter Butterscotch Bars
These Peanut Butter Butterscotch Bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them even further by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a fun twist, try adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking. You could also drizzle some melted chocolate over the frosting for an extra layer of flavor and decoration. Enjoy these bars as an afternoon snack, a dessert after dinner, or even as a sweet treat to bring to a friend’s house.
Frequently Asked Questions About Peanut Butter Butterscotch Bars
Can I use natural peanut butter?
No, for this recipe, creamy peanut butter works best to achieve the right texture.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
How do I store the leftover bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well!
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories per Serving: 250
Servings: 12 bars
Peanut Butter Butterscotch Bars
Equipment
- 8-inch square pan For baking the bars.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 0.25 cup creamy peanut butter
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 0.25 cup granulated sugar
- 0.25 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.25 cup quick-cooking oats not old-fashioned whole rolled
- 0.75 cup butterscotch chips
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 0.33 cup creamy peanut butter
- 0.25 cup cream or milk (half-and-half)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square pan with aluminum foil and spray it with cooking spray; set aside.
- In a mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat on medium-high speed for about 3 minutes until creamy. Tip: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for best results.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture. Beat on medium-high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 more minutes.
- Mix in the flour, oats, and optional salt on low speed until just combined, about 1 minute. Tip: Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.
- Spread the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the butterscotch chips evenly over the top.
- Bake for approximately 25 minutes, until the edges are slightly firm and the center is just set. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but no batter. Tip: Keep an eye on the bars towards the end of baking to prevent overcooking.
- While the bars bake, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, and cream. Beat on medium-high speed until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes.
- Once the bars are out of the oven, immediately spread the frosting over the top. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving. Tip: The bars can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days.