Description
These irresistibly rich butterscotch squares are a delightful treat combining creamy butterscotch with a chocolate coating. Perfect for parties or as a sweet gift, they feature a smooth, caramel-like filling topped with a glossy layer of melted chocolate. Easy to prepare and cut into perfect small squares, they are the ideal handmade confection for any occasion.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Butterscotch Layer
- 2 cups (400g) packed brown sugar
- 3/4 cup (177ml) heavy whipping cream
- 6 tablespoons (84g) unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (113g) powdered sugar
For the Chocolate Coating
- 16 ounces chocolate melts
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×9-inch pan with foil, making sure the foil extends over the edges for easy removal. Spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Make the Butterscotch Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the mixture is completely melted and starts to boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, insert a candy thermometer, and simmer while stirring occasionally until the temperature reaches 236ºF (113ºC), about 7-8 minutes.
- Finish the Filling: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in vanilla and salt until well combined. Whisk in the powdered sugar until smooth and thickened.
- Set the Butterscotch: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Let it cool at room temperature for a few hours or refrigerate for faster setting until firm.
- Cut into Squares: Once set, lift out the butterscotch block from the pan using the foil. Use a large kitchen knife to cut the block into quarters, then divide each quarter into small squares (about 16 per quarter), resulting in approximately 64 squares.
- Melt the Chocolate: Follow package instructions to melt the chocolate melts, either in a microwave or using a double boiler.
- Dip the Squares: Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each butterscotch square into the melted chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip off. Place the coated squares on a wax paper-lined cookie sheet.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the dipped squares for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate has fully set and hardened.
Notes
- Ensure the candy thermometer is accurately calibrated for precise temperature reading.
- You can store these squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets.
- Using high-quality chocolate melts yields a better coating and taste.
- If the chocolate is thick, warm it slightly to maintain a smooth dipping consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (about 16g)
- Calories: 70 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 4.5g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg