Name: Chewy Sea Salt Butterscotch Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup butterscotch chips; Sea salt flakes for topping

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🍪✨ Chewy Sea Salt Butterscotch Cookies: The Perfect Treat for Sweet & Savory Lovers 🍴🌊

1. Introduction

Imagine biting into a perfectly chewy butterscotch cookie, where the rich, caramel-like sweetness is beautifully balanced by a hint of coarse sea salt. These butterscotch cookies are more than just a treat—they’re an experience. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and aromatic aroma, they evoke comfort and indulgence in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a quick homemade delight, these chewy butterscotch treats are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth with a sophisticated twist.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for impromptu baking sessions.

Chewy and Crispy: Achieves the ideal texture that’s both tender and delightfully chewy with a hint of crunch from the sea salt.
Flavorful & Aromatic: Deeply caramelized butterscotch combined with a touch of sea salt enhances every flavor note.
Versatile: These cookies can be customized by adding mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips for extra flair.

3. Ingredient Notes

The key to making outstanding butterscotch cookies lies in selecting high-quality ingredients. Opt for premium butterscotch chips or handmade caramel bits; their rich, buttery flavor makes all the difference. Using coarse sea salt adds a contrasting crunch and enhances sweetness with its mineral complexity. For the best results, choose unsalted butter—preferably European-style for a deeper flavor. Fresh, high-quality vanilla extract amplifies the aroma, turning these cookies into an irresistible treat.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

To bring this recipe to life effortlessly, having the right tools is essential. A Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer simplifies baking with even heat distribution and adjustable temperature control, ensuring your cookies bake evenly. A sturdy T-fal 14-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set makes mixing and handling ingredients a breeze, plus the nonstick surface means fuss-free cleanup. And for mixing your dough to perfection, the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer guarantees smooth, well-incorporated batter every time.

5. How to Make Chewy Sea Salt Butterscotch Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather your ingredients—high-quality butter, rich vanilla extract, good-grade butterscotch chips, and coarse sea salt. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper; it prevents sticking and ensures crispy edges.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy—this creates a creamy base. Add vanilla extract and an egg; mix until fully incorporated. The aroma at this stage should be sweet, buttery, and inviting.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt to your wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. The dough will resemble soft, sticky clouds that promise chewy perfection after baking.

Step 4: Fold in the Flavors

Gently fold in the butterscotch chips—don’t overmix to keep the dough tender—and sprinkle some coarse sea salt on top for that irresistible salty-sweet contrast.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving space for spreading. Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden but the centers remain soft. The aroma of melted butterscotch combined with toasted salt is pure heaven.

6. Expert Tips for Success

For cookies with the perfect chewy texture, don’t overbake—removed them just as the edges turn golden. Chilling your dough for 30 minutes before baking intensifies flavors and helps achieve that ideal chewy consistency. Use high-quality butter and brown sugar for richer, deeper caramel notes. Lastly, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt immediately after baking to keep that perfect salty crunch intact.

7. Variations & Substitutions

Vegan Option: Substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use dairy-free butterscotch chips.

Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor complexity.
Double Chocolate: Mix in cocoa powder and chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for all diets.

8. Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to three months—perfect for having chewy butterscotch treats readily available. To enjoy later, reheat briefly in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes to revive that fresh-out-of-the-oven texture and aroma.

9. FAQ

Are butterscotch cookies chewy or crispy?

This recipe creates cookies that are delightfully chewy with crispy edges. The balance of ingredients and baking time ensures a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Can I customize these sea salt cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a splash of bourbon for a gourmet twist. You can also use flavored sea salts for more nuanced flavors.

What makes these chewy butterscotch treats stand out?

The combination of rich butterscotch, coarse sea salt, and the perfect chewy texture makes these cookies uniquely satisfying—so rich, so aromatic, and just the right amount of salty goodness.

10. Conclusion

In just a few simple steps, you can craft chewy sea salt butterscotch cookies that elevate the classic cookie experience. Their irresistible combination of sweet, salty, and chewy guarantees that these treats will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether for a friendly gathering or a cozy night at home, these cookies deliver comfort and sophistication in every bite.

Chewy Sea Salt Butterscotch Cookies