Butterscotch Cupcakes with Pecans

Name: Butterscotch Cupcakes with Pecans
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup butterscotch chips; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup pecans, chopped; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup butterscotch sauce; 1-2 tbsp milk, as needed

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Recipes

I absolutely adore these Butterscotch Cupcakes with Pecans! With their moist texture and rich butterscotch flavor, they make for the perfect dessert. The addition of pecans adds a delightful crunch that perfectly balances the sweetness. I love how simple it is to whip up a batch, and once they’re in the oven, your kitchen fills with a warm, inviting aroma. Whether I'm celebrating a special occasion or just treating myself on a regular day, these cupcakes never fail to impress!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:17:27.913Z

Creating these Butterscotch Cupcakes has become a beloved ritual for me. The moment I combine the butterscotch chips and butter, I'm reminded of cozy family gatherings. The key to achieve that perfect tender crumb is to avoid overmixing the batter, which helps keep them light and fluffy. I even experimented with adding a splash of vanilla extract, and it elevated the flavor to a whole new level!

I've also found that toasting the pecans before adding them enhances their nutty flavor and adds another layer of depth to the cupcakes. This subtle step makes a significant difference, and I'm confident that once you try it, you won’t go back. Plus, these cupcakes freeze beautifully, so you can always have a delightful treat on hand!

Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
Decadent butterscotch flavor with a nutty crunch
Light and fluffy texture that’s simply irresistible
Perfect for any occasion, from casual to festive

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of these Butterscotch Cupcakes lies in the ingredients, particularly the brown sugar and butterscotch chips. Brown sugar adds moisture and a deep caramel flavor, contributing to the cupcakes' rich sweetness. The butterscotch chips melt into the batter during baking, creating pockets of gooey goodness that enhance the overall texture. When choosing butterscotch chips, opt for a high-quality brand to ensure a robust flavor that will shine through in your final cupcakes.

Incorporating pecans not only introduces a delightful crunch but also balances the sweetness of the butterscotch. They provide earthy notes that harmonize with the sugary elements. If you’re in a pinch or need a nut-free option, feel free to replace the pecans with finely chopped pretzels for a salty contrast or omit them entirely without compromising the cupcake's integrity.

Baking Tips for Success

When you prepare the batter, be sure to cream the butter and brown sugar until it’s light and fluffy—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes on medium speed. The creaming process incorporates air, helping to create a light and airy texture in your cupcakes. Be cautious not to overmix once you incorporate the dry ingredients, as this can develop gluten and lead to a denser cupcake than desired. Mix just until combined, and then gently fold in your butterscotch chips and pecans for optimal texture.

Baking time is crucial; start checking your cupcakes at the 18-minute mark. The ideal visual cue is a lightly golden top and a toothpick that comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. If your cupcakes are browning too quickly, you can loosely tent them with aluminum foil halfway through baking to prevent over-browning without affecting the rise.

Frosting and Serving Suggestions

The frosting for these cupcakes plays a significant role in flavor balance. Be sure to whip the butter until creamy and pale to create a fluffy texture, as this emulsifies the ingredients effectively. If your frosting is too thick, gradually add milk; if it’s too thin, a little additional powdered sugar can help achieve the desired consistency. The butterscotch sauce not only adds flavor but also a glossy finish that enhances presentation.

These Butterscotch Cupcakes are particularly delightful when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. For variations, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the frosting to contrast with the sweetness or using a chocolate ganache for an indulgent twist. If you wish to make these cupcakes ahead of time, they freeze beautifully—just store them in an airtight container after they cool completely.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1/2 cup butterscotch chips
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup pecans, chopped

For the Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup butterscotch sauce
1-2 tbsp milk, as needed

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.

Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the butterscotch chips and chopped pecans.

Bake the Cupcakes

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, butterscotch sauce, and milk until smooth and fluffy.

Frost and Enjoy

Frost each cupcake with the butterscotch frosting and garnish with additional chopped pecans if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Butterscotch Cupcakes!

Pro Tips

For an added layer of flavor, consider drizzling extra butterscotch sauce on top of the frosted cupcakes.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning for an event, these Butterscotch Cupcakes can be made ahead of time and frozen. Once baked and cooled, individually wrap each cupcake in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer bag. They're best enjoyed within 1-2 months. When ready to serve, simply thaw them at room temperature for about an hour, or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.

You can also prepare the frosting in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just bring it back to room temperature and re-whip it before frosting your cupcakes for a soft, spreadable consistency. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to deepen as they sit.

Common Issues and Solutions

One common issue is cupcakes that dome excessively or overflow. To prevent this, fill your cupcake liners only 2/3 full of batter, allowing room for rising. Additionally, make sure your oven is correctly calibrated; too high a temperature can cause them to rise too quickly, leading to less desirable shapes.

Another issue may be dry cupcakes, often a result of overbaking or too much flour. Always measure flour with a light hand—it's best to spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off rather than scooping directly with the cup. This method ensures proper measurement and results in moist, tender cupcakes.

Flavor Variations

While these Butterscotch Cupcakes are delicious on their own, you can easily customize them to your liking. For a spiced twist, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry ingredients. This pairing complements the butterscotch beautifully and adds a cozy warmth to each bite.

Alternatively, you can experiment with different nuts or even chocolate chips instead of butterscotch chips for a rich, chocolatey flavor. If you opt for a dark chocolate ganache frosting instead of butterscotch, you will create a decadent combination that balances the sweetness of the cake with a rich cocoa flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can work well as substitutes.

→ How should I store the cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What should I do if my batter is too thick?

If your batter feels too thick, you can add a little milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.