Name: Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies with Sea Salt Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (cold); 1 cup Brown Sugar (packed); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (or coconut sugar); 1 large Egg; 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free blend); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1/2 teaspoon Salt (table or kosher); 1 cup Butterscotch Chips (adjust for sweetness); 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (or dark chocolate); to taste Sea Salt Sprinkles (optional); 1 cup Walnuts (chopped)

As I stood in my cozy kitchen, the rich scent of melting butter and brown sugar enveloped me like a warm hug. I was on a mission to create the ultimate treat—Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies. This easy recipe transforms humble ingredients into a delightful mix of gooey butterscotch and semi-sweet chocolate that strikes the perfect balance of sweet and salty. Not only do these cookies come together in no time, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion, but they also freeze beautifully, allowing you to savor fresh-baked goodness with minimal effort. Are you ready to treat your taste buds to a little piece of heaven? Let’s dive into this cookie adventure together!

Why are Butterscotch Cookies a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor: The rich blend of buttery butterscotch and semi-sweet chocolate creates a taste that’s simply unforgettable.

Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, these cookies can be whipped up in no time!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Versatile Options: Feel free to substitute with dark chocolate chips or even try adding walnuts for added crunch!

Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch today and freeze for future moments of cookie bliss, ensuring you always have a treat on hand. Check out our Vegan Chocolate Mousse if you want to balance your sweet cravings with something dairy-free!

Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookie Ingredients

For the Dough

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; make sure it’s cold for thicker cookies.
Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a deep flavor; essential for that gooey texture.
Granulated Sugar – Contributes sweetness and helps with cookie spread; coconut sugar is a great alternative for a twist.
Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together for a perfect texture; stick with one for best results.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; don’t skip it for a better taste!
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base structure; measure accurately to avoid flat cookies. Gluten-free blend works as a substitute if needed.
Baking Soda – Essential for the cookies’ rise; do not omit this key ingredient.
Salt – Enhances the flavors; either table or kosher salt works perfectly.
Butterscotch Chips – Delivers sweet, buttery flavor; adjust quantity for less sweetness.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds a delightful contrast; swap for dark chocolate if preferred.

For the Finish

Sea Salt Sprinkles – Optional but highly recommended for a flavor boost.

Optional Additions

Walnuts – Adds a nice crunch and nuttiness if you like a bit of texture.

These Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies promise to be a delightful treat!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick. This simple step sets the foundation for your Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies to emerge perfectly golden brown and delicious!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, add your cold unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no visible butter chunks—about 2-3 minutes. The creaminess created at this stage is key to achieving the perfect texture for your cookies.

Step 3: Incorporate Egg and Vanilla
Next, crack in one large egg and drizzle in the vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until just combined, which should take about 30 seconds. This is where the rich flavors of your Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies start to come together beautifully, bringing a delightful aroma into your kitchen!

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to your mixing bowl. Gently mix on low speed until the dry ingredients are just combined—about 30 seconds—being careful not to over-mix. You want to see specks of flour remaining mixed in, which will help keep the cookies soft and chewy.

Step 5: Fold in Chips
Now, it’s time for the star ingredients! Carefully fold in the butterscotch chips and semi-sweet chocolate chips using a spatula. Do this gently to avoid overworking the dough, which can make your cookies tough. The beautiful contrast of flavors in your Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies will surely delight everyone!

Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop generous amounts of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each mound. This spacing allows the cookies room to spread evenly in the oven. Aim for a uniform look; this helps them bake consistently throughout for that gooey center everyone loves.

Step 7: Add Extra Chips
If desired, you can enhance the visual appeal by placing a few extra chocolate or butterscotch chips on top of each cookie dough mound. Lightly press them down so they adhere to the surface. This step gives your Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies an inviting, homemade appearance that will tempt anyone nearby.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Carefully place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes for medium-sized cookies, or 10-13 minutes for larger ones. You’re looking for lightly browned edges and firm tops—this means they’re perfectly baked. Resist the urge to over-bake to keep those soft centers!

Step 9: Cool on Sheet
Once baked, take the cookies out of the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the cookies to firm up slightly and makes transferring them easier without breaking. You’ll notice the delightful smell wafting through your kitchen—absolutely heavenly!

Step 10: Sprinkle and Transfer
While the cookies are still warm, sprinkle a touch of sea salt over the tops to enhance those rich flavors. After the 5 minutes are up, gently transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool completely. This final step ensures they maintain their delightful texture, ready to be enjoyed!

What to Serve with Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies

These delightful cookies are perfect to enjoy alongside a variety of treats that can elevate your dessert experience to new heights.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, velvety texture melts beautifully with the warm cookies, creating a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist. Imagine taking a bite of the cookie right alongside a scoop of ice cream, enhancing the flavors of butterscotch and chocolate.
Rich Hot Chocolate: A steaming mug of hot chocolate pairs perfectly, enveloping you in warmth while complementing the sweet, buttery goodness of the cookies. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra level of cozy indulgence.
Fresh Berries: Bright, tart berries like raspberries or strawberries cut through the sweetness of the cookies, refreshing your palate. A small bowl of mixed berries offers both color and a pop of flavor that perfectly balances the rich sweetness.
Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm salted caramel over your cookies adds an irresistible touch of decadence, enhancing that sweet and salty profile. Each bite transforms into a gooey sensation that will leave you reaching for more!
Coffee or Espresso: A robust cup of coffee beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the cookies while adding a sophisticated touch to your dessert. The combination amplifies the flavors, making it a delightful afternoon treat.
Nutty Oatmeal: A bowl of oatmeal sprinkled with nuts provides a wholesome, hearty option that’s a nice contrast to the sweetness of dessert. The added texture and heartiness create a satisfying experience on a cozy morning or evening.
Decadent Cheesecake: A slice of creamy cheesecake creates a rich, smooth encounter that adds a layer of luxury to your cookie indulgence. Pair flavors like caramel or chocolate to mirror elements in your cookies.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: For a refreshing beverage that cleanses the palate, try sparkling water infused with fresh lemon. It provides a light, effervescent sip that perfectly balances the sweetness.
Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The crunch and saltiness of chocolate-dipped pretzels bring a delightful twist, enhancing the salty-sweet experience presented by the cookies. Enjoying them together makes for a fun snack idea that pleases both kids and adults.

Expert Tips for Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies

Butter Temperature: Use cold unsalted butter to maintain cookie thickness. Warm butter can lead to flat cookies that lack the desired chewiness.
Flour Measurement: Measure your all-purpose flour precisely. Overpacking or under-measuring can cause dense, dry cookies or those that spread too much during baking.
Mixing Technique: Avoid over-mixing once you add the dry ingredients. This can develop gluten and create tough cookies instead of soft, chewy delights.
Spacing is Key: Ensure there’s enough space between cookie dough mounds on the baking sheet. They need room to spread, giving your cookies the right shape and texture.
Cooling Time: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This time lets them firm up, maintaining that perfect gooey center and preventing breakage.
Storage Wisdom: To keep your butterscotch chocolate chip cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to 4 days!

Make Ahead Options

These Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all ingredients and refrigerating it. This not only allows the flavors to meld together but also helps maintain the cookie’s gooey texture. For even longer storage, scoop the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 30 days; just pop the frozen dough onto a baking sheet when you’re ready to bake, adding an extra minute to the baking time. When it’s time to serve, simply bake straight from the fridge or freezer for fresh, delicious cookies that are just as irresistible!

Storage Tips for Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This helps them maintain their delightful chewiness and flavor.

Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness, store the cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Just ensure they’re in a sealed container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container. They can last for up to 30 days, allowing you to enjoy your butterscotch chocolate chip cookies whenever cravings strike!

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, pop the frozen cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes. Enjoy that fresh-baked taste!

Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookie Variations

Feel free to let your creativity flourish with these fun twists that can elevate your Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies!

Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. The added texture complements the gooey chocolate and butterscotch beautifully.
Darker Chocolate: Swap in dark chocolate chips for a richer, more sophisticated flavor. The bitterness of dark chocolate pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of butterscotch.
Caramel Twist: Replace butterscotch chips with caramel chips for a totally new sweet sensation. The chewy caramel creates an indulgent experience that will surprise and delight.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a subtle, spicy kick. This unexpected touch can elevate the flavor profile, making the cookies more intriguing.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut oil in place of butter and non-dairy chocolate chips for a completely dairy-free version. You won’t miss the creaminess; it’ll still be a delicious treat!
Mini Cookie Version: Scoop smaller amounts of dough for mini cookies. They bake faster and are perfect for bite-sized indulgence, making them a hit with kids!
Giants with a Scoop: For a fun twist, create giant cookies by using a larger scoop for the dough. Just increase the baking time slightly for soft, gooey centers.
S’mores Style: Try adding toasted marshmallows and crushed graham crackers to the dough for a s’mores-inspired cookie. The combination of flavors will bring back fond memories of campfires!

Why not explore these variations and make this recipe uniquely yours? You’ll also love trying out our High Protein Chocolate recipe for a hearty sweet fix!

Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of butter should I use for the best results?
I highly recommend using cold unsalted butter for your Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies. Cold butter helps maintain the thickness of the cookies, ensuring that they don’t flatten too much during baking and retain that perfect chewy texture. Avoid softened butter, as it can lead to a flat result.

How should I store these cookies to keep them fresh?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. This keeps them lovely and chewy. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, you can also refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to a week. For even longer storage, follow the next question!

What is the best way to freeze cookie dough?
Absolutely! Freezing cookie dough is a wonderful idea for future baking. Scoop the dough into mounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid—this usually takes about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. They can be stored this way for up to 30 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time without needing to thaw!

Can I make any substitutions for allergies or dietary preferences?
Yes! If you or someone you are baking for has dietary restrictions, you can make some easy substitutions. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. If dairy is a concern, consider using a plant-based butter alternative. Also, feel free to swap out the butterscotch chips for dairy-free chocolate chips for a delightful butterscotch flavor that remains allergy-friendly.

What if my cookies come out flat?
If your Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies turn out flat, it could be due to a few reasons. First, check your butter temperature—if it was too soft, this could cause the cookies to spread too much. Additionally, ensure you measured the flour accurately. Too little flour can lead to flat cookies. Finally, try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help them maintain shape.

How should I reheat frozen cookies?
For a warm cookie treat, simply pop your frozen cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Alternatively, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cookies for a few minutes until they’re just heated through. This will restore that fresh-baked taste that’s simply delightful!