Why You’ll Love this Gluten-Free Butterscotch Cookies Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious treat that everyone can enjoy, you’ll love this Gluten-Free Butterscotch Cookies recipe. These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with that rich, buttery flavor you crave.
I’ve made them countless times, and they never disappoint. The butterscotch chips melt perfectly, creating pockets of sweetness that make each bite a delight. Plus, the gluten-free aspect means friends and family with dietary restrictions can indulge without worry.
What really sets these cookies apart is the brown butter, which adds a nutty depth that elevates the whole experience. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll find yourself making these cookies again and again, whether for special occasions or just a cozy night in.
Ingredients of Gluten-Free Butterscotch Cookies
If you’re ready to whip up some delightful Gluten-Free Butterscotch Cookies, let’s gather the ingredients first. It’s always helpful to have everything laid out before you start baking. This way, you can effortlessly mix and match without running back to the pantry.
Plus, it adds a little excitement to the whole process, don’t you think? Nothing like the smell of baking cookies wafting through the house to make you feel like a superstar chef.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 3/4 cups dark brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups gluten-free baking mix (or 2 1/2 cups flour)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar (for dredging)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (for dredging)
- Sea salt (for sprinkling)
Now, before you plunge into mixing, let’s talk about a few things to keep in mind regarding these ingredients. First off, using high-quality butter really makes a difference, especially since we’re browning it for that nutty flavor.
And when it comes to gluten-free baking mix, not all are created equal. Some can be a little gritty or dense, so if you have a favorite brand, stick with it.
Also, if you’re not keen on xanthan gum, there are alternatives like guar gum, but keep in mind that they can alter the texture slightly.
Finally, don’t skimp on that sea salt sprinkle on top; it balances the sweetness beautifully. Happy baking, and may your cookies turn out fabulously delicious!
How to Make Gluten-Free Butterscotch Cookies
Alright, let’s immerse ourselves in how to make these delightful Gluten-Free Butterscotch Cookies. First things first, preheat your oven to a nice toasty 375°.
While that’s warming up, you’ll want to sift together 2 1/2 cups of your gluten-free baking mix (or flour if that’s your jam), along with 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of xanthan gum. This little step helps to aerate the flour and guarantees that everything blends together smoothly, which is especially important when you’re working with gluten-free ingredients.
Next, let’s turn our attention to that glorious 12 tablespoons of unsalted butter. You’ll want to put 10 tablespoons into a skillet over medium heat. Now, here’s where the magic happens—watch as the butter foams and then turns a lovely tan color, filling your kitchen with a warm, nutty aroma that’s almost too good to be true.
Once it reaches that perfect color, pull it off the heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons until they melt into that luscious brown butter. Pour this liquid gold into a mixing bowl and add 1 3/4 cups of dark brown sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix it all together until it’s well combined.
Then, crack in 1 egg, add 1 egg yolk, and a tablespoon of vanilla extract—oh, the smell! Mix again, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl so every bit is incorporated.
Now, it’s time for the dry ingredients to join the party. Add the flour mixture in three parts, mixing just until everything is combined, but don’t overdo it. The dough will be thick—like, “I might need a workout just to mix this” thick.
Grab a tablespoon and scoop out pieces of dough about 1/2 tablespoon in size. Gently roll them into balls and roll those in your sugar dredging mixture of 1/4 cup dark brown sugar and 2 tablespoons sugar until they’re well-coated.
Place them on a baking sheet, sprinkle a tiny bit of sea salt on top (remember, less is more), and pop them in the oven for about 10 to 12 minutes. You want those edges to be just a little brown but not overbaked—nobody wants a dry cookie.
Once they’re out, let them cool for a minute on the sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. And there you have it, warm, gooey, gluten-free butterscotch cookies that are ready to be enjoyed with a glass of cold milk or a steaming cup of coffee. Happy baking!
Gluten-Free Butterscotch Cookies Substitutions & Variations
When it comes to making gluten-free butterscotch cookies, there’s plenty of room for creativity through substitutions and variations. You can swap the gluten-free baking mix for almond or coconut flour for a unique flavor twist.
If you want to cut down on sugar, try using maple syrup or honey instead of brown sugar. For a nutty taste, adding chopped pecans or walnuts can elevate the texture.
You could also use dairy-free butter or coconut oil if you’re avoiding dairy. If butterscotch chips aren’t available, white chocolate or dark chocolate chips make excellent alternatives.
Don’t hesitate to experiment; every variation can lead to delicious results! Enjoy the process of creating your perfect cookie.
What to Serve with Gluten-Free Butterscotch Cookies
Gluten-free butterscotch cookies are a delightful treat that pairs well with a variety of beverages and snacks.
I love enjoying them with a glass of cold milk; the creaminess complements the sweetness perfectly. If you prefer something a bit warmer, a cup of hot coffee or tea enhances those rich butterscotch flavors beautifully.
For a unique twist, try serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a delicious dessert experience.
If you’re in the mood for something savory, a cheese platter with mild cheeses balances the sweetness nicely.
I also find that fresh fruit, like apple slices or berries, adds a rejuvenating contrast, making for a delightful snack combo.
Enjoy experimenting with these pairings!
Additional Tips & Notes
While baking gluten-free butterscotch cookies can be a rewarding experience, there are a few tips that can elevate your results.
First, make sure your gluten-free flour blend contains xanthan gum, as it helps bind the ingredients together. I’ve found that chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking keeps the cookies from spreading too much.
When measuring your flour, scoop it into the measuring cup and level it off rather than packing it down, ensuring accuracy. Also, keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; every oven is different!
Finally, for an extra touch, feel free to mix in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips. Enjoy your baking adventure!