Chewy Sea Salt Butterscotch Cookies

© Original recipe by The Recipe Nest ©

🍪✨ Chewy Sea Salt Butterscotch Cookies: The Ultimate Sweet and Salty Delight! ✨🍪

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a cookie that offers a perfect balance of sweet and salty, then these chewy sea salt butterscotch cookies are exactly what you need. The rich, caramel-like flavor of butterscotch pairs beautifully with a touch of flaky sea salt, creating a textural experience that’s both indulgent and satisfying. These cookies are not just delectable—they also boast a delightfully chewy texture, making every bite a little celebration of flavor and craftsmanship.

Imagine biting into a warm, soft cookie with gooey butterscotch chunks, sprinkled with just enough sea salt to enhance every flavor note. Once you master this recipe, you’ll find it hard to settle for store-bought cookies—these are bound to become your favorite homemade treat.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in 30 minutes — Perfect for spontaneous sweet cravings!
• Chewy and flavorful with crunchy edges and gooey centers.
• Salty-sweet perfection with a hint of sea salt topping.
• Simple ingredients with minimal prep, suitable for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile — Ideal for gifting, potlucks, or indulging yourself.

3. Ingredient Notes

The secret to achieving the best ever cookies lies in high-quality ingredients. Use real unsalted butter to lend a rich, creamy base, and opt for premium butterscotch chips to maximize flavor. For the sea salt, flaky sea salt works best for garnishing, providing a delicate crunch and burst of saltiness that elevates the entire cookie.

To add a special touch, consider using Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista Espresso & Coffee Maker for your coffee needs—sometimes, a cup of coffee pairs perfectly with a warm cookie!

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

For perfect cookies, having the right tools is essential. Check out this Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer—an excellent gadget that allows you to bake cookies with even heat distribution and quick cleanup. Also, a sturdy T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set makes scooping and baking effortless, ensuring your cookies release smoothly from the pan.

5. How to Make Chewy Sea Salt Butterscotch Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Begin by beating softened unsalted butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and aromatic—about 2-3 minutes. The smell of melted sugar and butter should waft through your kitchen, hinting that baking magic is in progress.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Whisk in a large egg, followed by a splash of vanilla extract. The mixture should become smooth and glossy. This step is crucial for achieving that chewy texture.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. The dough will initial be sticky, but that’s perfect. Fold in the butterscotch chips—they will melt slightly during baking, creating pockets of caramel goodness.

Step 4: Shape and Add Sea Salt

Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly sprinkle with flaky sea salt. The salt crystals will contrast beautifully with the sweetness and melt into the cookies as they bake.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden brown, but centers remain chewy. Let the cookies rest a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool.

6. Expert Tips for Success

Always use room-temperature butter; it creams better and creates a smooth cookie dough. To keep your cookies consistently chewy, do not over-bake—remove them once they just turn golden around the edges. For surface salt, flaky sea salt is preferred over regular; it dissolves gently, enhancing the flavor without overpowering. Lastly, resting the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes can improve the texture and flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can bake immediately.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If you prefer dairy-free options, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. White chocolate chips can replace butterscotch for a milder, sweeter version. For a nutty touch, add chopped toasted pecans or walnuts. To make these cookies gluten-free, swap all-purpose flour with a trusted gluten-free blend.

8. Storage & Reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight bag—these cookies freeze beautifully. To reheat, warm them in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 10 seconds for an instant treat.

9. FAQ

Q: How do I keep these cookies chewy?

The key to chewy cookies is not overbaking; take them out once the edges are golden but centers are still soft. Using brown sugar also enhances chewiness due to its molasses content.

Q: Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the dough, portion it, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Baking straight from the fridge will yield fresh, chewy cookies with even more flavor.

Q: How do I get those perfect flaky sea salt toppings?

Sprinkle the salt on just before baking, and use flaky sea salt for the best texture and flavor release. Avoid adding salt after baking to prevent dissolving.

Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

10. Conclusion

These chewy sea salt butterscotch cookies are a harmonious blend of sweet, salty, and chewy textures that will become your new favorite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just satisfying a dessert craving, this recipe delivers comfort and decadence in every bite. Enjoy baking these irresistible treats and indulge in the perfect harmony of flavors!

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