As I pulled the warm cookies from the oven, the rich aroma of melted chocolate mingled with buttery butterscotch, captivating my senses. These Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies have become my go-to recipe for any occasion, transforming simple pantry staples into an irresistible treat. With just a handful of ingredients, they come together in no time, making them an easy yet impressive addition to any dessert table. The delightful contrast of creamy butterscotch and rich chocolate chips is beautifully enhanced by a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, elevating this classic cookie to new heights. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or indulging in a sweet moment alone, these cookies are sure to warm your heart. Ready to discover the secret behind these crowd-pleasers? Let’s dive in!
Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?
Gooey Texture: The combination of butterscotch and chocolate chips creates a deliciously chewy interior that you won’t be able to resist.
Perfectly Balanced Sweetness: The blend of brown sugar and butterscotch combined with a touch of sea salt strikes an ideal balance, making each bite a symphony of flavors.
Quick & Simple: This easy recipe doesn’t require any special skills or ingredients, so you can whip up a batch quickly on a whim.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to impress everyone. Pair them with cold milk or hot coffee for the perfect indulgence!
Versatile Variations: Feel free to jazz them up! Try replacing the butterscotch chips with white chocolate or adding nuts for a crunchy twist. Discover more unique flavors in my Chocolate Peanut Butter or Gluten Free Chocolate recipes!
Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookie Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create these delightful cookies!
For the Cookie Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; use straight from the fridge for thicker cookies.
- Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture, contributing to that chewy texture we all crave.
- Granulated Sugar – Balances sweetness and helps the cookies spread perfectly.
- Large Egg – Binds all ingredients together; no need for it to be at room temperature!
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor depth of your cookies.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives the cookies structure; be sure to measure it accurately for the best results.
- Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent, giving your cookies that delightful rise.
- Salt – Balances out the sweetness and enhances the flavor of butterscotch.
For the Chocolate and Butterscotch
- Butterscotch Chips – Adds sweet gooeyness; adjust the quantity according to your sweetness preference.
- Semisweet Chocolate Chips – Offers a rich, contrasting flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of butterscotch.
- Flaky Sea Salt – A sprinkle enhances the sweet and salty dynamic, making each bite unforgettable.
Optional Add-Ins
- Walnuts – Add a lovely crunch; feel free to omit for a nut-free version or switch to your favorite nut!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure the cookies don’t stick as they bake. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden color on the edges of your Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies, so make sure your oven is fully heated before moving on!
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, place your cold unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the mixture until it becomes light and creamy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. You want to ensure there are no lumps of butter remaining, creating a smooth base for your cookie dough.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Now, it’s time to incorporate the large egg and vanilla extract into your creamed mixture. Mix on low speed just until everything is well combined, which should take about 30 seconds. This step infuses your Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies with a rich flavor that will elevate the overall taste of your baked treats.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Aim for a even dough while being careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies instead of the tender texture you desire in your butterscotch chocolate chip cookies.
Step 5: Fold in the Chips
Gently fold in the butterscotch chips, semisweet chocolate chips, and any optional walnuts into the cookie dough using a spatula. Be careful not to overwork the dough here; you want to evenly distribute the chips without losing the fluffiness of your mixture. The delightful combination creates bursts of sweetness in every bite!
Step 6: Portion the Dough
Using an ice cream scoop or a large spoon, portion out the cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Leave ample space (about 2 inches) between each dough mound, as the cookies will spread as they bake. If desired, you can place a few additional chocolate chips on top for added visual appeal before baking.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place one baking sheet in the oven at a time and bake for 8-13 minutes, depending on your desired cookie size. For medium cookies, stick to the lower end (8-10 minutes), while large cookies may need up to 13 minutes. The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden and the tops feel set; they will firm up a bit as they cool.
Step 8: Cool and Sprinkle with Salt
Once your Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies are done baking, allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This rest time helps them set properly. Afterward, transfer the cookies to a wire rack. While they’re still warm, sprinkle a touch of flaky sea salt on top to enhance the sweet and salty flavors in each delightful bite.
Storage Tips for Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies
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Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. This keeps them fresh, chewy, and ready for indulgence anytime!
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 30 days. They’ll retain their delicious flavor and texture, ready to thaw and enjoy when the craving strikes.
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Reheating: To bring back that warm, fresh-baked feel, reheat cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes. Enjoy the gooey butterscotch chocolate chip deliciousness!
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Cookie Care: If you’re worried about cookies sticking together in storage, layer parchment paper between them. This simple trick makes for easy separation, preserving that perfect cookie shape.
What to Serve with Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies
Indulging in warm cookies is not just about the treat itself – it’s an experience best enjoyed with delightful accompaniments that enhance every bite.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing melts beautifully alongside warm cookies, adding a refreshing coolness that complements the sweetness.
- Rich Hot Chocolate: The deep, chocolaty flavors of a warm cup of hot cocoa beautifully complement the butterscotch, creating a cozy dessert experience. The warmth and richness play off each other, making each bite feel like a comforting hug!
- Cold Milk: From whole to almond, a cold glass offers a classic taste adventure, cutting through the sweetness while enhancing the cookie’s flavors.
- Coffee with Cream: A warm brew brings out the richness of the butterscotch, providing a balanced contrast to the sweetness. Enjoy a sipper while nibbling on a cookie for pure bliss!
- Fresh Fruit Salad: The tartness of berries or citrus fruits provides a refreshing counterbalance to the cookie’s richness and can brighten up your dessert plate beautifully.
- Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzling a bit of this sweet-tart sauce over cookies adds an indulgent touch that enhances their flavors. You won’t regret this sweet extravagance!
- Nutty Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal sprinkled with nuts offers a heartier option to contrast the sweetness of cookies, making it a satisfying mid-afternoon snack.
- Cheesecake Bites: The creamy texture and tangy notes of cheesecake create a lovely flavor contrast to butterscotch, making it a delightful combo for special gatherings.
- Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink can cleanse the palate, balancing the sweetness while adding a bubbly touch of fun to dessert time!
Tips for the Best Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies
Butter Temperature: Keep it cold: Cold unsalted butter is key to achieving thick, chewy cookies. Softened or melted butter can lead to flat cookies.
Avoid Overmixing: Gentle mixing only: Incorporate the flour until just combined, as overmixing can toughen the dough and ruin the texture of your butterscotch chocolate chip cookies.
Cookie Size Consistency: Use a scoop: For evenly sized cookies, use an ice cream scoop to portion the dough. This ensures they bake uniformly and look appealing.
Watch Baking Time: Check frequently: Keep an eye on your cookies in the final minutes; they can go from perfect to overdone quickly. Aim for lightly golden edges for the ideal chewy texture.
Salt Sprinkle: Add before cooling: Don’t forget to sprinkle flaky sea salt on top while the cookies are warm to enhance that magical sweet and salty flavor contrast!
Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious and customizable twists on the classic recipe that will tantalize your tastebuds.
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White Chocolate: Substitute butterscotch chips for white chocolate to create a sweeter, creamier cookie experience. The warm notes will still shine through, providing a lovely new flavor.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch. The crunchy texture pairs beautifully with the gooey chocolate and butterscotch, adding a delightful surprise in each bite.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper for a surprising twist. This contrast can enhance the sweetness, making your cookies even more intriguing.
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Dark Chocolate Delight: Try using dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet for a richer taste. The bittersweet notes will perfectly balance the sugary components, making every nibble deeply satisfying.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some caramel sauce on top of the cookies after baking. This adds a decadent layer of indulgence that amplifies the butterscotch flavor even further.
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Espresso Boost: Add one teaspoon of espresso powder to the dough for an intense flavor boost. Espresso pairs beautifully with chocolate, creating a more robust cookie experience.
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Minty Fresh: Stir in mint chocolate chips in place of some regular chocolate chips for a refreshing spin. This invigorating twist will make your cookies perfect for festive occasions.
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Oatmeal Twist: Swap out a portion of the flour for rolled oats for added texture and flavor. The oats give your cookies a heartier quality, making them even more wholesome and delicious!
These variations open up endless possibilities. If you love cookies as much as I do, check out my Banana Chocolate Chip or Double Chocolate Banana recipes for more delightful inspirations!
Make Ahead Options
These Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance. Simply mix the dough as instructed and cover it tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating to maintain freshness. You can also scoop the dough onto baking sheets, freeze the portions, and then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just preheat your oven and cook from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, you’ll always have freshly baked cookies on hand, just as delicious as if you made them today!
Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of butter should I use for these cookies?
Absolutely! I recommend using cold unsalted butter straight from the fridge. This helps create thick, chewy cookies. Avoid softened or melted butter, as they can spread too much while baking.
How should I store my butterscotch chocolate chip cookies?
For the best flavor and texture, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for snacking.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can! For up to 30 days, freeze baked butterscotch chocolate chip cookies by placing them in an airtight container or zip-top bag. To enjoy them later, just thaw at room temperature or microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked feeling.
What if my cookies turn out too flat?
To prevent flat cookies, ensure your butter is cold and avoid overmixing the dough. If your cookies spread too much, they might need more flour; try adding an extra tablespoon at a time until you reach the right consistency in the dough.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Since this recipe contains gluten and dairy, they aren’t suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients. You could substitute with gluten-free flour and dairy-free butter for a more inclusive treat.
Can I use different types of chocolate chips or nuts?
The more, the merrier! Feel free to experiment by replacing butterscotch chips with white chocolate or adding chopped nuts. If you’re feeling adventurous, add some espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor even further!
Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies: Sweet, Salty Bliss!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream the cold unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and creamy for about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the mixture and mix on low speed until combined, about 30 seconds.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually incorporate into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in butterscotch chips, semisweet chocolate chips, and optional walnuts until evenly distributed.
- Portion the dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Optionally, add extra chocolate chips on top.
- Bake for 8-13 minutes or until edges are lightly golden and tops feel set.
- Cool on baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt while warm.
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