18 Decadent Butterscotch Dessert Recipes Irresistible

Carmen Eldridge

April 4, 2025

Indulge your sweet tooth with these 18 irresistible butterscotch dessert recipes that will satisfy any craving. Butterscotch, a classic flavor combination of brown sugar, butter, and cream, never fails to evoke feelings of warmth and comfort. From classic puddings to creative twists on traditional desserts, we’ve gathered the most mouthwatering butterscotch treats to tempt your taste buds.

Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and creamy or light and airy, these decadent butterscotch desserts are sure to impress. With flavors ranging from classic vanilla and caramel to bold spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, there’s a treat here for everyone. So go ahead, get cozy, and indulge in the sweet life with our collection of 18 decedent butterscotch dessert recipes.

Classic Butterscotch Pudding

Classic Butterscotch Pudding
Experience the warm comfort of a classic butterscotch pudding, reminiscent of childhood memories and cozy gatherings.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup butterscotch syrup or butterscotch chips

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla extract and melted butter.
5. Stir in butterscotch syrup or chips until well combined.
6. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until set.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Butterscotch Blondies with Sea Salt

Butterscotch Blondies with Sea Salt
These chewy blondies are infused with the rich flavor of butterscotch and the perfect crunch of sea salt, making them a delightful twist on traditional blondies.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 sticks (6 1/2 tablespoons) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (flaky or kosher)
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in sea salt (and nuts, if using).
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars

Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars
Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Sweeten up your snack time with these indulgent Butterscotch Cheesecake Bars, packed with a velvety cheesecake filling, gooey butterscotch sauce, and a crumbly graham cracker crust.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup butterscotch sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until combined. Press into a 9×9-inch baking dish.
3. Bake crust for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Prepare cheesecake: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla; beat until combined.
5. Pour cheesecake mixture over baked crust.
6. Drizzle butterscotch sauce over cheesecake.
7. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
8. Let cool completely before cutting into bars. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.

Cook Time: 28-35 minutes

Butterscotch Apple Crisp

Butterscotch Apple Crisp
This comforting dessert combines tender apples, gooey butterscotch sauce, and a crunchy oat topping for a sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together sliced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Pour in the melted butter and stir until apples are evenly coated.
4. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats and chopped walnuts (if using).
6. Top apple mixture with oat mixture, spreading evenly.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until topping is golden brown and apples are tender.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Butterscotch Bread Pudding

Butterscotch Bread Pudding
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this scrumptious butterscotch bread pudding, perfect for a cozy evening treat or special occasion.

Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butterscotch syrup (or to taste)

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter.
3. Add eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
4. Stir in vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
5. Add bread cubes and toss until evenly coated.
6. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Drizzle with heavy cream and butterscotch syrup (to taste).
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Butterscotch Pecan Pie

Butterscotch Pecan Pie
A classic Southern dessert, this butterscotch pecan pie combines the nutty flavor of pecans with a velvety butterscotch filling.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and heavy cream until well combined.
3. Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
4. Stir in the pecan halves.
5. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish.
6. Pour the filling mixture into the pie crust.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies

Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies
Warm, chewy cookies filled with the rich flavors of butterscotch and dark chocolate – a perfect treat for any time of day. This recipe is easy to make and yields a delicious batch of cookies that are sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup butterscotch chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips and butterscotch chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Butterscotch Caramel Flan

Butterscotch Caramel Flan
This rich and velvety flan is infused with the sweet flavors of butterscotch and caramel, making it a decadent dessert perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup butterscotch caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 large egg yolks

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks.
4. Gradually add the warm cream mixture to the egg yolks, whisking until smooth.
5. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
8. Drizzle butterscotch caramel sauce over the cooled flan and serve.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Butterscotch Banana Foster

Butterscotch Banana Foster
Elevate your dessert game with this classic recipe that combines sweet bananas, rich butterscotch, and a hint of rum.

Ingredients:

– 4 ripe bananas, sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons butterscotch syrup (or 1 tablespoon light corn syrup + 1 tablespoon brown sugar)
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced bananas and cook for 2-3 minutes or until caramelized.
3. Sprinkle the brown sugar and butterscotch syrup (or mixture) evenly over the bananas.
4. Cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the mixture is bubbly and slightly thickened.
5. If using rum, add it to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Sprinkle with cinnamon and serve warm.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Butterscotch Ice Cream Sundae

Butterscotch Ice Cream Sundae
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this classic sundae recipe featuring creamy butterscotch ice cream, crunchy wafers, and a drizzle of caramel goodness.

Ingredients:

– 1 pint butterscotch ice cream
– 1 cup crushed butter pecan wafers
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce
– Whipped cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Scoop the butterscotch ice cream into a sundae dish or a tall glass.
2. Sprinkle the crushed butter pecan wafers evenly over the top of the ice cream.
3. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the wafers, creating a zig-zag pattern.
4. Top with whipped cream, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: None required! This sundae is ready in just a few minutes.

Butterscotch Pumpkin Spice Cake

Butterscotch Pumpkin Spice Cake
Escape the ordinary with this moist and aromatic cake, infused with the comforting flavors of butterscotch, pumpkin, and warm spices. Perfect for a cozy autumn evening or as a unique dessert to impress your guests.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon butterscotch extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter, pumpkin puree, eggs, and butterscotch extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes

Butterscotch Rice Krispie Treats

Butterscotch Rice Krispie Treats
Sweet Treats Alert!

Get ready to swoon over these scrumptious Butterscotch Rice Krispie Treats! These chewy, golden-brown bars are infused with the rich flavors of butterscotch and topped with a crispy Rice Krispies crust.

Ingredients:

– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the pan
– 2 cups marshmallows
– 1 cup butterscotch chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter and set aside.
2. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in butterscotch chips and vanilla extract until combined.
4. Quickly fold in Rice Krispies cereal until well coated.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
6. Allow to cool and harden before cutting into bars.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes

Butterscotch Coconut Macaroons

Butterscotch Coconut Macaroons
Treat your taste buds to a delightful combination of chewy coconut macaroons infused with the rich flavors of butterscotch. These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or as a special dessert.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon butterscotch extract
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine coconut, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, egg whites, vanilla extract, and butterscotch extract until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Butterscotch Cinnamon Rolls

Butterscotch Cinnamon Rolls
Warm up with these soft, gooey, and utterly delicious Butterscotch Cinnamon Rolls! This sweet treat is perfect for breakfast or a snack, and can be easily scaled up for a crowd.

Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup butterscotch chips
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add melted butter, eggs, and yeast mixture. Mix until smooth dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Sprinkle with butterscotch chips and cinnamon.
5. Roll up tightly, cut into 12 equal pieces, and place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Tips:
• Let rolls cool for a few minutes before serving.
• Dust with confectioners’ sugar for extra sweetness.

Butterscotch Mousse Parfait

Butterscotch Mousse Parfait
Rich and creamy butterscotch mousse layered with whipped cream, crunchy cookie crumbs, and fresh fruit makes for a decadent dessert perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:
– 8 ounces heavy whipping cream
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons butterscotch syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (such as Oreos)
– Fresh fruit of your choice (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate large bowl, beat butter and confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Add butterscotch syrup and vanilla extract; mix well.
3. Fold whipped cream into the butter mixture until no white streaks remain.
4. Spoon half of the mousse into individual serving glasses or parfait dishes.
5. Top with a layer of crushed cookies, followed by your choice of fresh fruit.
6. Repeat layers, finishing with a dollop of mousse on top.
7. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on assembly time)

Butterscotch Peanut Butter Fudge

Butterscotch Peanut Butter Fudge
This rich and creamy fudge recipe combines the classic flavors of peanut butter and butterscotch for a sweet treat that’s sure to please. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch of smooth and velvety fudge that’s perfect for snacking or gift-giving.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120g) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 12 ounces (340g) peanut butter chips
– 1/2 cup (60g) butterscotch chips

Instructions:

1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and condensed milk. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 235°F (118°C).
3. Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter chips, butterscotch chips, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Pour into prepared baking dish and let cool to room temperature.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. Cut into squares and serve.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Butterscotch Oatmeal Cookies

Butterscotch Oatmeal Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the warmth of oatmeal with the richness of butterscotch, perfect for a sweet treat.

Ingredients:

– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup butterscotch chips
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and baking soda.
3. Add softened butter and vanilla extract; mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in butterscotch chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Butterscotch Molten Lava Cake

Butterscotch Molten Lava Cake
Experience the rich flavors of butterscotch and warm, gooey chocolate with this indulgent dessert. Perfect for a special treat or surprise.

Ingredients:

– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butterscotch chips (or chopped butterscotch candies)
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter six 6-ounce ramekins or small cups.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat eggs and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in butter, then vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, butterscotch chips, and chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared ramekins.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set, but centers still slightly jiggly.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Summary

Get ready to indulge in the rich and creamy world of butterscotch desserts! This collection of 18 decadent recipes will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more. From classic pudding to innovative creations like butterscotch blondies with sea salt, cheesecake bars, and pecan pie, there’s something for every butter-lover. Discover new ways to enjoy the iconic flavor combination of brown sugar, butter, and creamy goodness in these mouthwatering treats.

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