Best Ever Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies (with Sea Salt)

Enjoy the delicious taste of butterscotch and chocolate chips combined in these easy-to-make Best Ever Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies (with Sea Salt)! Perfect for any occasion, these warm and gooey cookies are not only packed with flavor but also feature a delightful sprinkle of sea salt that elevates the sweet experience. Whip them up for a casual gathering or as a special treat for yourself—either way, they’re sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have these cookies ready in no time.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of butterscotch and chocolate chips creates a rich, delightful taste that everyone will love.
• Customizable: Add walnuts or adjust the sweetness to fit your preference—these cookies are versatile!
• Perfectly Balanced: The touch of sea salt enhances the sweetness, making each bite irresistible.
• Great for Sharing: Bake a batch to share with friends or family; they make perfect gifts!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking these amazing cookies, gather your tools for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Whisk or electric mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.
• Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet promotes even baking, preventing burnt edges.
• Whisk or electric mixer: These tools help achieve a smooth batter quickly, saving you time and effort.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• ½ cup unsalted butter (straight from fridge or room temperature)
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (measured correctly)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Mix-ins

• 1 cup butterscotch chips
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• Sea salt sprinkles (for the sweet and salty vibe!)
• Optional: walnuts

How to Make Best Ever Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies (with Sea Salt)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly from the moment they go in.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use a whisk or electric mixer to cream them together until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Fold in Chips

Gently fold in the butterscotch chips and semisweet chocolate chips. If using walnuts, add them at this stage as well.

Step 6: Shape Dough Balls

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave space between each cookie for spreading.

Step 7: Sprinkle with Sea Salt

Before placing in the oven, sprinkle each cookie dough ball with sea salt for that perfect sweet-salty flavor balance.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until golden brown around the edges. The centers may look slightly underbaked; they will firm up as they cool.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Enjoy your delicious Best Ever Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies (with Sea Salt)!

How to Serve Best Ever Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies (with Sea Salt)

These delicious cookies can be enjoyed in several delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just indulging yourself, these serving suggestions will enhance your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that never goes out of style. The creamy texture of milk complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

Warmed Up

• Lightly warm your cookies in the microwave for a few seconds. This will make them gooey and extra delicious.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies for a decadent treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of your cookie for an extra layer of sweetness and creaminess.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries to add a fruity contrast to the rich flavors of butterscotch and chocolate.

How to Perfect Best Ever Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies (with Sea Salt)

Achieving cookie perfection is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out just right.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing and a smoother dough.

• Measure flour accurately: Use a spoon to fluff up the flour before scooping it into your measuring cup. This prevents dense cookies.

• Chill the dough: If time allows, chill your dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor.

• Don’t skip the sea salt: A sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking adds an irresistible contrast to the sweetness.

• Keep an eye on baking time: Bake just until edges are golden brown for soft centers; overbaking can lead to dry cookies.

Best Side Dishes for Best Ever Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies (with Sea Salt)

Pairing these cookies with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience even further. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These add an elegant touch and enhance the chocolate flavor in the cookies.
3. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing side that contrasts nicely with rich cookies.
4. Nutty Granola Bars: Their crunchiness provides a delightful texture contrast while still being sweet.
5. Caramel Sauce Dip: Serve some warm caramel sauce on the side for dipping, enhancing that butterscotch flavor.
6. Tea or Herbal Infusion: A light tea or herbal infusion offers a soothing beverage option that pairs well with dessert.
7. Cheese Plate: A small selection of mild cheeses can provide an interesting savory balance against sweet cookies.
8. Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up toppings like nuts, sprinkles, and sauces for guests to customize their ice cream creations alongside your cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect Measurement: Using too much or too little flour can affect the texture. Always measure flour using a spoon and leveling it off with a knife.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long can lead to tough cookies. Combine ingredients until just mixed for the best results.
• Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping this step might lead to flat cookies. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape.
• Using Expired Baking Soda: Expired baking soda will not give your cookies the lift they need. Always check the date before using it.
• Skipping Sea Salt Topping: Not adding sea salt can miss the sweet and salty balance. A sprinkle of sea salt enhances flavor significantly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Best Ever Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies (with Sea Salt)

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1-2 hours before transferring to a freezer bag.
• Keep frozen for up to three months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Best Ever Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies (with Sea Salt)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for 5-7 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on high for about 10-15 seconds for gooey goodness.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Best Ever Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies (with Sea Salt).

How do I make my cookies chewier?

Adding an extra egg yolk can increase chewiness. It adds moisture without making them cakey.

Can I substitute butterscotch chips?

Yes! Feel free to use peanut butter chips or white chocolate chips if you prefer.

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if you want them to last longer.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! Freeze individual cookie dough balls and bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Why do I need sea salt on top?

Sprinkling sea salt enhances the sweetness of the butterscotch and chocolate, creating a delicious contrast in flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Best Ever Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies (with Sea Salt) are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or trying different types of chocolate chips. Make these treats your own and enjoy every bite!