Butterscotch Drops

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These Butterscotch Drops are one of my favorite no-bake treats to whip up during the holidays—or honestly, any time I’m craving something quick, sweet, and crunchy. I love how the creamy, buttery butterscotch hugs every bit of the crispy, chewy clusters. They’re the perfect combination of nostalgia and indulgence, reminding me of cookie swaps and cozy nights with a warm drink in hand.

What I really appreciate about this recipe is how incredibly simple it is to make. No oven required, just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of stirring and scooping. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, Butterscotch Drops are fail-proof and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Butterscotch Drops Recipe

• It’s a no-bake dessert you can make in under 30 minutes.
• Uses only 4-5 ingredients, all pantry-friendly.
• Crunchy, chewy, and sweet—a perfect texture combo.
• Kid-friendly and great for gifting.
• Customizable with nuts, cereal, or candy add-ins.

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What Kind of Butterscotch Should I Use?

You’ll want to use high-quality butterscotch chips for this recipe. The smoother the melt, the better the final texture. I recommend brands that use real butter flavor, as they provide a deeper, richer taste. You can also experiment with butterscotch baking bars if you want to go the extra mile, just be sure to chop them finely for even melting.

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Options for Substitutions

• Peanut Butter: For a nuttier twist, swap a portion of the butterscotch chips with creamy peanut butter.
• Cereal Base: If you don’t have graham crackers, crushed cornflakes or chow mein noodles work great.
• Add-ins: Mini marshmallows, chopped peanuts, or pretzel pieces add extra fun and crunch.
• Vegan Option: Use dairy-free butterscotch chips and a plant-based cookie base to make it vegan-friendly.
• White Chocolate Mix: Mix in a few white chocolate chips for a swirl of sweetness.

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Ingredients for This Butterscotch Drops Recipe

• Butterscotch Chips: The star of the recipe, these provide the rich, buttery sweetness that holds everything together.
• Mini Marshmallows: Add a soft, chewy contrast to the crunchy texture. They also help the drops hold their shape.
• Graham Crackers (crushed): Give that unmistakable crunch and slight honey flavor, making each bite extra satisfying.
• Butter (optional): A small amount enhances creaminess and helps achieve a smoother melt.
• Vanilla Extract (optional): Adds depth and a warm, familiar aroma that rounds out the flavor.

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Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Crush the graham crackers into coarse crumbs using a food processor or by sealing them in a zip-top bag and rolling over with a rolling pin. Measure out the mini marshmallows and have your butterscotch chips ready to go.

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Step 2: Melt the Butterscotch

In a medium saucepan, melt the butterscotch chips over low heat, stirring constantly. You can also use a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring in between. If using, add a tablespoon of butter to smooth out the texture.

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Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract

Once fully melted and smooth, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract if desired. This step enhances the flavor but is totally optional.

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Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, add the crushed graham crackers and mini marshmallows. Pour the melted butterscotch mixture over them and stir quickly until everything is well coated. Work fast—the mixture sets quickly!

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Step 5: Scoop and Set

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow them to cool and harden at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes, or speed things up by chilling them in the fridge.

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Step 6: Serve or Store

Once hardened, transfer your Butterscotch Drops to an airtight container. They’re ready to serve immediately or keep for later!

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How Long to Prepare the Butterscotch Drops Recipe

Making Butterscotch Drops is refreshingly fast. From gathering your ingredients to setting the final drops, the whole process takes about 30 minutes total. Since it’s a no-bake treat, there’s no oven time involved, which makes it ideal for last-minute dessert needs.

Preparation Time: Crushing the graham crackers and melting the butterscotch chips takes around 10-15 minutes. Mixing and scooping the drops onto a tray adds another 10 minutes.

Setting Time: Let them cool and harden at room temperature for 20-30 minutes, or speed it up in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes.

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Tips for Perfect Butterscotch Drops

• Use high-quality butterscotch chips to avoid grainy texture.
• Don’t overheat the chips—low and slow melting ensures smooth consistency.
• Stir quickly after pouring the butterscotch over the dry ingredients to prevent clumping.
• Line your tray with parchment paper to make removal effortless.
• For uniform size, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overheating the butterscotch chips can cause them to seize. Always melt gently.
• Waiting too long to mix after pouring the butterscotch can make it hard to coat everything evenly.
• Not prepping ingredients beforehand can lead to a rushed and messy process.
• Using too many marshmallows may make the drops too soft and sticky.
• Skipping the parchment paper will make the drops difficult to lift off the tray.

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What to Serve With Butterscotch Drops?

1. Hot Chocolate

Rich, creamy hot chocolate complements the sweet and crunchy drops perfectly.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream

Serve a couple of drops on the side for texture and a flavor boost.

3. Coffee or Espresso

The bitterness of coffee balances the sweet richness of the butterscotch.

4. Apple Cider

Warm spiced cider adds a comforting, seasonal twist to the treat.

5. Whipped Cream-topped Brownies

For an indulgent dessert platter, pair these with fudgy brownies and a swirl of whipped cream.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store Butterscotch Drops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent melting.

Refrigeration: If your kitchen tends to run warm, refrigerate them in an airtight container. They can last up to 2 weeks when kept cold.

Freezing: To store longer, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container with parchment paper between layers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

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Estimated Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 160
• Total Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 5mg
• Sodium: 85mg
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Sugar: 17g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Protein: 1g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Butterscotch Drops take to set?

Usually about 20-30 minutes at room temperature or 10-15 minutes in the fridge.

Can I use other cookies instead of graham crackers?

Yes! Crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even gingersnaps work well.

Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Absolutely. Chopped pecans or peanuts add a great crunch and balance the sweetness.

Are Butterscotch Drops gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can use gluten-free graham crackers to make them gluten-free.

Can I make these ahead of time for a party?

Yes, they’re perfect make-ahead treats and keep well for several days when stored properly.

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Conclusion

Butterscotch Drops are a delightful, no-bake treat that delivers both flavor and texture with very little effort. Whether you need a quick dessert for a party or a simple snack to enjoy with coffee, these sweet, crunchy clusters are guaranteed to impress. They’re versatile, easy to store, and endlessly customizable—a true must-have in your dessert rotation.

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