
Ultimate Soft & Chewy Butterscotch Chip Cookies with Butterscotch Extract
Dolce Flav
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Category
Butterscotch Extract
Author:
Dolce Flav
Servings
24
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
12 minutes
Sink your teeth into these Ultimate Soft & Chewy Butterscotch Chip Cookies—elevated with a splash of butterscotch extract to amplify that deep, buttery sweetness in each bite. In just 15 minutes of prep, you'll whisk together rich brown sugar, melted butter, and the warm spice of butterscotch extract, fold in flour and chips, then bake until the edges are golden and the centers remain irresistibly gooey. These cookies are perfect for cozy afternoons, holiday cookie platters, or anytime you crave nostalgic sweetness.
Ingredients
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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¾ cup packed dark brown sugar
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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1 teaspoon butterscotch extract
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1½ cups all-purpose flour
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½ teaspoon baking soda
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½ teaspoon salt
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1 cup butterscotch chips
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Optional: flaky sea salt for sprinkling
Directions
Prep & mix – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line or lightly grease baking sheets. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
Flavor infusion – Stir in the butterscotch extract, vanilla, and egg until fully incorporated and glossy.
Combine dry ingredients – Add flour, baking soda, and salt; mix just until the dough comes together.
Add chips – Fold in the butterscotch chips, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
Scoop & bake – Drop rounded tablespoons (or use a cookie scoop) of dough onto prepared sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart. Optionally, sprinkle with flaky sea salt for a flavor contrast.
Bake to perfection – Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden but centers still look slightly underbaked.
Cool & enjoy – Allow cookies to rest on baking sheets for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool slightly.
Recipe Note
FAQs – Your Top 10 Questions Answered
Can I substitute vanilla extract for butterscotch extract?
You can, but it won't deliver the same buttery caramel depth; butterscotch extract is key for that signature flavor punch.
Where do I buy butterscotch extract?
Try baking supply stores or online marketplaces—look for food-grade, concentrated butterscotch extract for best results.
Why melt the butter instead of creaming it?
Melted butter creates a denser, chewier cookie texture—perfect if you love a soft center with lightly crisped edges.
Can I freeze the dough or baked cookies?
Yes—freeze scooped dough balls for up to 1 month. Bake straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes. Baked cookies freeze well too.
How do I make these cookies more golden or crunchy?
Use light brown sugar or chill dough before baking. For crunchier cookies, bake at 360°F for 1–2 minutes longer.
Nut-free or allergy concerns?
These cookies are naturally nut-free if your extract and chips are safe. Always check ingredient labels for cross-contamination warnings.
Can I make smaller or larger cookies?
Certainly—mini cookies bake in about 8 minutes; thicker, oversized ones may need 14–15 minutes (watch closely).
Is dark brown sugar better than light?
Dark brown sugar adds richer, molasses notes that complement the butterscotch extract. Light sugar yields a milder, sweeter flavor.
Can I reduce sugar for a less sweet cookie?
You can lower granulated sugar to 2 tablespoons, but sweetness also balances the extract and chip flavors; taste may be muted.
How do I store these cookies for freshness?
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days—or layer with parchment to prevent sticking.