Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
If you have a sweet tooth and a soft spot for cookies that balance rich flavors with chewy texture, you are going to adore these Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies. Imagine biting into a warm, golden cookie where the buttery sweetness of the butterscotch chips perfectly complements the rich melt of semi-sweet chocolate, all wrapped in a tender, chewy base. These cookies are the kind of treat that instantly brightens your day, bringing that cozy, homemade comfort with every single bite. Whether for a casual snack, a party treat, or a thoughtful gift, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these cookies lies in their perfectly balanced ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role: butter for creaminess and tenderness, sugars for sweetness and texture, and of course, the stars—the butterscotch and chocolate chips—that create the signature burst of flavor. Getting these ingredients right is the first step toward cookie bliss.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Provides a rich, creamy base that ensures your cookies stay soft and tender.
- 1 cup dark brown sugar: Adds deep molasses notes and helps keep the cookies delightfully chewy.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and aids in creating the perfect golden edge.
- 2 large eggs: Binds everything together while adding moisture and a bit of structure.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Infuses aromatic warmth that enhances all other flavors.
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives cookies their substance and chew.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a soft center and crispy edge.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and deepens flavor complexity.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melty pockets of chocolate that add richness and texture.
- 1 cup butterscotch chips: Sweet, buttery bursts that make these cookies truly unique.
How to Make Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This easy prep ensures your cookies bake evenly and come off the pan without a struggle.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential because it introduces air, giving your Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies that perfect soft texture.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Mix in the eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract. These ingredients bind the dough together and add moisture and flavor depth.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Combining these in advance helps distribute the leavening agent evenly, which is super important for an even bake.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet butter mixture. Stir just until everything is combined—overmixing can make the cookies tough, so keep it gentle for that signature chewy bite.
Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate and Butterscotch Chips
Gently fold in both the semi-sweet chocolate chips and butterscotch chips. These two together give the cookies an irresistible flavor contrast and those delightful melty pockets you’ll want more of.
Step 7: Shape and Bake
Scoop the dough into 2-tablespoon balls and place them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are golden while the centers remain soft. Remember to let them cool on the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack — this helps them set perfectly without breaking.
How to Serve Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies
Garnishes
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top right after baking for a wonderful salty-sweet finish that accentuates every bite of your Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies. Adding a light dusting of powdered sugar is another lovely touch for extra sweetness.
Side Dishes
These cookies shine alongside a cold glass of milk, a creamy hot chocolate, or even a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Their rich flavor pairs beautifully with warm drinks and can also be served as a dessert alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming gift or party presentation, stack the cookies in clear jars layered with parchment, or sandwich two cookies together with softened vanilla buttercream. You can also drizzle melted chocolate or butterscotch over the top for an elegant twist that’s guaranteed to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps your Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies delightfully soft and chewy instead of letting them turn hard and stale.
Freezing
You can freeze baked cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to 3 months and can be thawed overnight on the counter for fresh-baked taste.
Reheating
To revive the warm, melty feeling, pop the cookies in the microwave for about 10 seconds or warm them briefly in a low oven. This brings back that perfect gooey texture that makes these cookies so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I substitute the butterscotch chips with something else?
Absolutely! While butterscotch chips give a unique sweet butter flavor, you can swap them out for white chocolate or caramel chips if you prefer a different twist.
Are these cookies crunchy or soft?
Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies are best enjoyed with a soft, chewy center and lightly crisp edges. If you prefer crunchier cookies, baking a few minutes longer can help achieve that texture.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
You can, but reduce or omit the additional salt in the recipe to avoid oversalting. Unsalted butter gives you greater control over the final flavor.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking if your kitchen is warm. This helps keep the cookies from spreading out too thin.
Can I double the recipe to make more cookies?
Definitely! This recipe scales up well, just be sure to use larger mixing bowls and bake the cookies on multiple sheets to maintain even baking.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a cookie that feels like a warm embrace wrapped in golden sweetness, you simply must try these Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies. They’re easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself. Once you taste that buttery chew with bursts of melty chocolate and butterscotch, you’ll know you’ve found your new baking obsession!
