Easy Homemade Butterscotch Sauce Recipe – Sweet Mama’s Kitchen

Susan Roberts 0 Comments
Servings: 1 Total Time: 5 mins Difficulty: Intermediate
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What is Easy Homemade Butterscotch Sauce?

Butterscotch sauce is a sweet condiment made from sugar and butter, with a rich, buttery flavor coming to the forefront. It originated in the British Isles, gaining popularity in desserts and as a dip. 

Unlike caramel sauce, which uses granulated sugar, butterscotch uses brown sugar, lending it a distinct molasses-like quality that’s hard to beat.

This sauce is not just limited to desserts. It can complement a variety of dishes, making it incredibly versatile. When made at home, you get control over the ingredients and flavors, ensuring a delightful treat every time.

Easy Homemade Butterscotch Sauce Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Easy Homemade Butterscotch Sauce

1. Simplicity: You won’t need a culinary degree for this one. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have a batch ready in no time.

2. Versatility: Whether you’re drizzling it over ice cream, pancakes, or even in coffee, the uses are virtually endless.

3. Customizable: You can easily tweak the flavors to your liking, whether that means adding a pinch of spice or a splash of liquor.

4. Rich Flavors: There’s just something about the deep, sweet flavor of butterscotch that can’t be replicated. It feels indulgent, and you deserve it.

5. Impressive: Friends and family will be amazed that you made this delicious sauce from scratch. Just wait until you see their faces!

The Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create your butterscotch sauce masterpiece:

  • 1/2 cup dark brown sugar, tightly packed
    This is the star of the show, providing that signature butterscotch flavor.
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
    Butter adds a rich mouthfeel and balances the sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
    This helps create a smooth and velvety texture.
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
    Vanilla enhances the flavor, making the sauce even more aromatic.
  • 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt (for a touch of texture and balance)
    This is optional but highly recommended to balance the sweetness.
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (for a warm, subtle depth)
    Adds a lovely hint of warmth and complexity.
  • 1 teaspoon bourbon or dark rum (optional, for a rich, caramel-like flavor)
    A splash of booze can make the flavor more sophisticated.
Easy Homemade Butterscotch Sauce Copycat Recipe

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, measure out all your ingredients. Having everything ready makes the process smoother and quicker.

Step 2: Melt the Sugar and Butter

In a medium saucepan, combine the dark brown sugar and butter over medium heat. Stir continuously to mix the ingredients until the butter is fully melted and the mixture begins to bubble gently. It starts to take on a glossy appearance, and that’s when the magic happens.

Step 3: Add the Heavy Cream

Once the sugar and butter are well combined and bubbling, slowly pour in the heavy cream. It’s important to add it gradually. Stir well until the sauce is fully combined and smooth. This step can cause the mixture to bubble up, so be careful and keep stirring.

Step 4: Stir in Vanilla and Seasonings

After the sauce has reached a nice, pourable consistency, remove it from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, flaky sea salt, cinnamon, and bourbon or dark rum if you’re using it. This adds layers of flavor, transforming something simple into something exceptional.

Step 5: Let It Cool Down

Allow the butterscotch sauce to cool in the pan for a few minutes. It will thicken as it cools. Once it’s at a more manageable temperature, pour it into your storage container or use it right away.

Tips & Tricks

  • Keep it Simple: If you’re new to making sauces, don’t worry. This recipe is forgiving! Just remember to take it slow with the cream.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your butter and vanilla makes a big difference. Use the best you can find.
  • Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the brown sugar slightly. Keep in mind it might alter the texture.
  • Serve Warm: This sauce is most delicious when served warm. If it thickens too much after cooling, reheat it gently on the stovetop.
  • Store Where You Can Find It: If you’re going to make a batch, consider labeling your containers. This way, you won’t forget about them hiding in the back of the fridge!

Nutrition Information

Here’s a quick nutritional breakdown for one serving (about 2 tablespoons):

  • Calories: 130
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Sugars: 14g
  • Protein: 0g

Can I Store Easy Homemade Butterscotch Sauce?

Yes! Homemade butterscotch sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. When you’re ready to use it again, simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. 

If it thickens too much, add a splash of cream to return it to your desired consistency.

What Can I Serve with Easy Homemade Butterscotch Sauce?

  • Ice Cream: Nothing beats a scoop of vanilla with a generous drizzle of warm butterscotch.
  • Brownies: Don’t just go for plain. Make them decadent with some sauce on top.
  • Cheesecake: Pour it over your favorite cheesecake for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Pancakes or Waffles: Swap out syrup for butterscotch on your next breakfast.
  • Fresh Fruit: Drizzle it over sliced apples or bananas for a simple yet delicious treat.

Variations

Consider trying out these variations to make your butterscotch sauce even more unique:

  • Salted Caramel Butterscotch: Blend in an extra pinch of flaky sea salt for a delightful contrast.
  • Chocolate Butterscotch: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder when you mix in the cream for a delicious twist.
  • Nutty Butterscotch: Stir in a tablespoon of finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for texture.
  • Spiced Butterscotch: Mix in a teaspoon of your favorite spice blend like pumpkin spice for a seasonal touch.
  • Coffee Flavored: Enhance the recipe by adding 1 teaspoon of instant espresso when you incorporate the cream.
Best Easy Homemade Butterscotch Sauce Recipe

Conclusion

Making easy homemade butterscotch sauce is a rewarding experience. It feels good to create something so delicious from scratch. This sauce can enhance your desserts and impress your guests. Plus, it’s as straightforward as following a few steps.

Don’t wait for a special occasion; treat yourself today. As you pour it over your favorite dessert, just watch those smiles appear. 

Enjoy exploring different flavors and uses. Your kitchen is now officially a butterscotch haven. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the sweet success!

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Easy Homemade Butterscotch Sauce Recipe – Sweet Mama’s Kitchen

Author: Susan Roberts Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate Cook Time 5 mins Total Time 5 mins
Servings: 1 Calories: 130 kcal
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

You’ve just baked a batch of brownies, and they’re still warm. You want to elevate them to the next level. What could possibly make them even more delectable? The answer—homemade butterscotch sauce. 

Trust me, once you whip up this sauce in your kitchen, you'll find yourself drizzling it over everything from ice cream to pancakes.

I distinctly remember the first time I made butterscotch sauce. The rich aroma filled my kitchen, wrapping around me like a warm hug. I felt like a culinary magician transforming simple ingredients into a golden liquid bliss. 

Today, I'm excited to share my foolproof recipe for easy homemade butterscotch sauce.

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

  1. Before you start cooking, measure out all your ingredients. Having everything ready makes the process smoother and quicker.

Step 2: Melt the Sugar and Butter

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the dark brown sugar and butter over medium heat. Stir continuously to mix the ingredients until the butter is fully melted and the mixture begins to bubble gently. It starts to take on a glossy appearance, and that's when the magic happens.

Step 3: Add the Heavy Cream

  1. Once the sugar and butter are well combined and bubbling, slowly pour in the heavy cream. It's important to add it gradually. Stir well until the sauce is fully combined and smooth. This step can cause the mixture to bubble up, so be careful and keep stirring.

Step 4: Stir in Vanilla and Seasonings

  1. After the sauce has reached a nice, pourable consistency, remove it from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, flaky sea salt, cinnamon, and bourbon or dark rum if you're using it. This adds layers of flavor, transforming something simple into something exceptional.

Step 5: Let It Cool Down

  1. Allow the butterscotch sauce to cool in the pan for a few minutes. It will thicken as it cools. Once it’s at a more manageable temperature, pour it into your storage container or use it right away.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 1

Amount Per Serving
Calories 130kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 8g13%
Saturated Fat 5g25%
Total Carbohydrate 15g5%
Sugars 14g

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

  • Keep it Simple: If you're new to making sauces, don’t worry. This recipe is forgiving! Just remember to take it slow with the cream.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your butter and vanilla makes a big difference. Use the best you can find.
  • Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the brown sugar slightly. Keep in mind it might alter the texture.
  • Serve Warm: This sauce is most delicious when served warm. If it thickens too much after cooling, reheat it gently on the stovetop.
  • Store Where You Can Find It: If you're going to make a batch, consider labeling your containers. This way, you won’t forget about them hiding in the back of the fridge!
Keywords: easy homemade butterscotch sauce recipe
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Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I make butterscotch sauce dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut oil, and use coconut cream or almond milk instead of heavy cream for a non-dairy version. It will alter the flavor slightly, but it can still be quite delicious.

How do I thin out my butterscotch sauce if it’s too thick?

Simply reheat your sauce and add a splash of cream or milk to bring it back to your desired consistency. Stir well until uniform.

Can I use brown sugar substitutes?

While you can substitute with lighter brown sugar or even coconut sugar, keep in mind that this will affect the flavor profile. Dark brown sugar gives the best results due to its rich molasses content.

Is it possible to make butterscotch sauce in advance?

Absolutely! Just make the sauce, cool it down, and store it in the fridge. You can easily reheat it later for use.

How can I tell if my butterscotch sauce is done?

You’ll know it’s done when the mixture is smooth, thick, and has a glossy appearance. Also, remember that it will thicken further as it cools.

Susan Roberts, Author and Registered Dietitian
Susan Roberts Registered Dietitian & Food Enthusiasts

Susan Roberts is a California-based registered dietitian and the creator of Sweet Mama’s Kitchen, where she shares simple, comforting, and nutritious home-cooked recipes. As a busy mom, she focuses on easy, wholesome meals that bring joy to the table without sacrificing flavor. Susan’s passion lies in helping others create delicious, family-friendly dishes with love and confidence.

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