Butterscotch blondies are dessert bars that are similar to brownies. There are many variations of this sweet treat, and they can be enjoyed plain for snacks or dressed up to create elegant desserts. Butterscotch flavor may have originated in Scotland.
This dessert differs from the more common brownie in that it is usually made without chocolate, which can be helpful for people who need to avoid it. Most recipes call for the use of brown sugar instead of white, which helps to enhance the butterscotch flavor. Butterscotch chips add extra flavor and a creamy texture.
A versatile dessert, variations on butterscotch blondie recipes may call for nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, and sometimes fruit, such as apples or pears; some recipes may also include chocolate chips along with the butterscotch chips. When the blondies are stored covered, they should keep at room temperature for about two or three days, though they may be kept longer when frozen in an airtight container. Butterscotch blondies are easy to pack, making them convenient for lunch boxes, picnics or potluck dinners, and for an impressive ending to a special meal, they may be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, drizzled with butterscotch sauce. For those interested in cooking with butterscotch, a sauce can be made from scratch using brown sugar, butter, cream and vanilla flavor.
Most recipes will call for the use of a 9-inch (22.9 cm) by 13-inch (33 cm) cake pan, requiring that the butterscotch blondies be cut into bars. When the appearance of the blondie is especially important, some may prefer to use a special brownie pan, which has individual sections for each blondie. Using this type of brownie pan also eliminates the need for cutting, so younger children can help with removing the blondies from the pan.
Those who enjoy butterscotch blondies may also enjoy butterscotch cookies. Recipes are usually similar to those for chocolate chip cookies. A chocolate chip cookie recipe that calls for brown sugar can be easily altered by simply substituting butterscotch chips for chocolate chips.
Butterscotch itself is usually made from brown sugar and butter, along with other ingredients. The term may refer to the flavor’s Scottish origin, or to the butter’s cooked, or “scorched” state. Those with nut allergies should be aware that butterscotch chips may contain nuts, so they may wish to avoid all types of butterscotch brownies, even those without added nuts.