Gooey Butterscotch Nut Bars

Name: Gooey Butterscotch Nut Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 500 grams sugar cookie mix; 96 grams instant butterscotch pudding mix; 115 grams unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg; 397 grams caramels, unwrapped; 120 millilitres evaporated milk; 240 grams mixed nuts, coarsely chopped; 5 millilitres pure vanilla extract; 170 grams butterscotch chips

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: November 4, 2025

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Introduction to Gooey Butterscotch Nut Bars

There’s nothing quite like the comforting allure of Gooey Butterscotch Nut Bars. This delightful treat combines sweet, buttery goodness with a rich caramel and nut filling that will make your taste buds dance. If you’re like me, balancing the whirlwind of family life and work, you need dessert solutions that are quick and satisfying. These bars are my go-to for both everyday indulgence and special occasions. They’re sure to impress your loved ones, provide a warm hug on a busy day, and make you feel like a superstar in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Gooey Butterscotch Nut Bars

These Gooey Butterscotch Nut Bars are a lifesaver for busy days. They come together in a snap, making them perfect for unexpected guests or a sweet snack craving. The combination of rich butterscotch and crunchy nuts creates a flavor explosion you won’t forget. Plus, they’re so indulgent that your friends and family will think you slaved away in the kitchen, but little do they know, it’s simple as pie!

Ingredients for Gooey Butterscotch Nut Bars

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step towards creating the magic of Gooey Butterscotch Nut Bars. Here’s what you’ll need:

Sugar cookie mix: This forms the base of our bars, providing a wonderfully sweet and buttery flavor. Look for a mix that is easy to work with!
Instant butterscotch pudding mix: This is the secret ingredient that adds extra creaminess and a rich butterscotch flavor.
Unsalted butter: Soften it to ensure it blends well with the dry ingredients, giving our bars a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Large egg: This binds everything together, making the bars sturdy yet gooey. A key player in achieving that perfect consistency.
Caramels: Unwrapped, of course! These sweet candies melt down to form a luscious filling that’s simply irresistible.
Evaporated milk: This adds creaminess to the caramel filling and helps create a smooth, silky texture.
Mixed nuts: Coarsely chopped for a lovely crunch! Use your favorites—walnuts, pecans, or almonds work beautifully.
Pure vanilla extract: Just a splash enhances overall flavor and adds depth to both the crust and filling.
Butterscotch chips: These little drops of heaven create a beautiful finish on top, adding sweetness and an extra layer of butterscotch goodness.

If you want to mix things up, consider adding chocolate chips or even some shredded coconut for a tropical twist. Remember, the exact measurements for these ingredients are at the bottom of the article and ready for printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Gooey Butterscotch Nut Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

First things first! Preheat your oven to 175°C (or 350°F for my American friends). Grab a 23 x 33-centimetre baking pan and give it a light coat of non-stick spray. This little step ensures our bars won’t stick like good friends on movie night. Set it aside while you gather the other ingredients.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a medium bowl, combine the sugar cookie mix and the instant butterscotch pudding mix. Toss in the softened butter and egg. Now, mix everything together until fully blended. I use a spatula, but a hand mixer works perfectly too! You’ll want to achieve a dough-like consistency that’s both sweet and buttery. This is the foundation for our delicious bars!

Step 3: Bake the Base

Now it’s time to create your crust! Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Make sure it’s spread out nice and evenly for great baking results. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. The edges should look lightly golden. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells like cookie paradise!

Step 4: Create the Caramel Filling

While the base is baking, let’s make that gooey filling! In a large saucepan over medium heat, place the unwrapped caramels and the evaporated milk. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. This is the divine moment where your kitchen transforms into a candy shop. Just stay vigilant, so it doesn’t burn!

Step 5: Add Nuts and Vanilla

Remove the caramel from heat and stir in those coarsely chopped mixed nuts you prepared earlier. Don’t forget the pure vanilla extract! This is where the magic happens, as the vanilla amplifies the flavors and adds warmth to the caramel. Fold everything in until well combined, then let the mixture cool slightly before moving on.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake Again

Once your crust is done baking, it’s time to pour that luscious caramel nut filling evenly over the warm base. Don’t forget to sprinkle those heavenly butterscotch chips on top! Bake again for another 10-15 minutes, until the chips melt and create a lovely golden layer. You want to hear a little sizzle whenever you peek inside the oven!

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Patience is a virtue! Allow the bars to cool in the pan. I know it’s tempting to dive right in, but letting them set fully is essential. When they’re cool enough to handle, slice them into squares. I recommend using a sharp knife and a gentle sawing motion for clean cuts. Your Gooey Butterscotch Nut Bars are now ready to be devoured!

Tips for Success

Use room temperature butter for a smoother blend.
Press the base firmly into the pan for an even crust.
Check for doneness by looking for a golden edge on the crust.
Let the bars cool completely before cutting for clean slices.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh and gooey!

Equipment Needed

Baking pan (23 x 33 cm) – A glass or metal pan will work just fine!
Mixing bowls – Any size is perfect for combining your ingredients.
Spatula or hand mixer – Use what you’re comfortable with for mixing!
Large saucepan – Essential for melting those caramels to perfection.
Sharp knife – For slicing those luscious bars into perfect portions.

Variations of Gooey Butterscotch Nut Bars

Chocolate Lovers: Add a layer of chocolate chips along with the butterscotch chips for a double dose of decadence.
Nut-Free Option: Swap the mixed nuts for a sprinkle of dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a chewy contrast.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free sugar cookie mix to keep the bars just as divine without the gluten.
Spiced Delight: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the base for a warm, spicy twist that’s perfect for fall.
Healthier Alternative: Replace half of the caramels with a homemade nut butter to create a creamy filling with fewer processed sugars.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Gooey Butterscotch Nut Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Serve warm with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence.
Try pairing these bars with a steaming cup of coffee or tea—perfect for a cozy treat!
For presentation, cut the bars into fun shapes or sprinkle with extra butterscotch chips.

FAQs about Gooey Butterscotch Nut Bars

Can I make these Gooey Butterscotch Nut Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake them a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature for the best texture. They’ll still be gooey and delicious!

What can I substitute for mixed nuts?

If you have nut allergies or prefer not to use them, dried fruit like raisins or cranberries can be a delightful substitute. They’ll add sweetness and a chewy texture!

How do I prevent the bars from sticking?

Using non-stick spray on your baking pan is a great start. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for an easy removal, ensuring every gooey slice comes out perfectly!

Can I freeze the leftovers?

You sure can! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight.

What’s the best way to store them for freshness?

Keep your Gooey Butterscotch Nut Bars in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them soft and gooey. Enjoy them within a week for the best experience!

Final Thoughts

Creating these Gooey Butterscotch Nut Bars is more than just baking; it’s about making memories. The sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen pulls everyone closer, creating a cozy atmosphere that feels like a warm embrace. With their rich, chewy texture and buttery goodness, each bite is like a mini celebration. Whether you’re indulging on a quiet evening or sharing with family and friends, these bars bring joy to the table. I promise, one batch will leave you craving more. So roll up your sleeves, get baking, and let the sweet magic of these bars brighten your day!