Butterscotch Crunch Squares
Butterscotch Crunch Squares are irresistibly sweet and crunchy, featuring a buttery crumb topping layered with chocolate ice cream and butterscotch topping—perfect for dessert lovers and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, oats, and brown sugar; cut in margarine until mixture resembles crumbs.
- Stir in chopped nuts.
- Pat the mixture into a 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Bake at 400°F for 15 minutes.
- Stir while still warm to crumble; let cool.
- Spread half the crumbs in a 9 x 9 x 2-inch pan; drizzle about half the butterscotch topping over the crumbs.
- Stir the ice cream to soften; carefully spread it over the crumb and topping layer.
- Drizzle with remaining butterscotch topping; sprinkle with remaining crumbs.
- Freeze until firm before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, consider using pecans or walnuts instead of mixed nuts. If you're looking to reduce calories, swap margarine for coconut oil or a light butter alternative. Ensure your ice cream is slightly softened before spreading it over the layers, as this will make it easier to work with. For added texture, try mixing in crushed pretzels with the crumbs for a salty-sweet combination.
Serving Suggestions
These Butterscotch Crunch Squares are perfect for summer gatherings or as a sweet treat after dinner. Consider serving them with a drizzle of chocolate syrup or a scoop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, or you can serve them alongside slices of Grandma's 7-Up Cake for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Butterscotch Crunch Squares in an airtight container in the freezer. They can be kept for up to two weeks. To enjoy again, simply remove a square and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving, allowing the ice cream to soften slightly for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butterscotch Crunch Squares contains roughly 616 calories, with 8g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make Butterscotch Crunch Squares gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that your oats are certified gluten-free as well, to avoid any cross-contamination.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the squares?
If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the amount of brown sugar in the crumb mixture. You can also use sugar substitutes or opt for a low-sugar butterscotch topping, which will help balance the sweetness without sacrificing flavor.
Can I use a different flavor of ice cream?
Absolutely! While chocolate ice cream complements the butterscotch nicely, you can experiment with flavors like vanilla, caramel, or even coffee to create a unique twist on the dessert. Just ensure the chosen flavor pairs well with the butterscotch topping.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).