Butterscotch Divine: A Heavenly Dessert for Any Occasion
Name: Butterscotch Divine
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Description: Delight your taste buds with this Butterscotch Divine, a luscious dessert that marries the nutty crunch of pecans with the creamy layers of butterscotch and cream cheese. Perfect for potlucks or any gathering, it’s a treat that’s as delightful to share as it is to eat.
Recipe Category: Dessert
Keywords: Potluck, < 60 Mins, For Large Groups
Ingredients
The ingredient list for Butterscotch Divine includes a variety of items that combine to create a rich and creamy dessert. Here’s a detailed look at each component:
- Butter: ½ cup (113 grams)
- Margarine: 1 ½ cups (339 grams)
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup (120 grams)
- Pecans: 1 cup, finely chopped (110 grams)
- Cream Cheese: 8 ounces (225 grams)
- Powdered Sugar: 1 cup (120 grams)
- Cool Whip: 12 ounces (340 grams)
- Instant Butterscotch Pudding Mix: 3.4 ounces (96 grams)
- Milk: 2 cups (475 ml)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 288.1
- Fat Content: 19.8 grams
- Saturated Fat Content: 11.9 grams
- Cholesterol Content: 39.7 milligrams
- Sodium Content: 116.4 milligrams
- Carbohydrate Content: 24.2 grams
- Fiber Content: 0.7 grams
- Sugar Content: 11.5 grams
- Protein Content: 4.6 grams
Recipe Servings: 15
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to prepare the Butterscotch Divine, ensuring a flawless and delectable dessert every time:
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Prepare the Crust:
- Combine First Three Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup butter, 1 ½ cups margarine, and 1 cup all-purpose flour. Mix until well-blended. The mixture should be crumbly and hold together slightly when pressed.
- Press into Baking Dish: Press this flour mixture evenly into the bottom of a 13×9 inch (33×23 cm) baking dish. Ensure it’s packed tightly to form a solid crust.
- Bake the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the crust for 20 minutes until it’s lightly golden. Remove from oven and allow it to cool completely.
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Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
- Beat Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large bowl, combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1 cup powdered sugar. Beat with an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Fold in Cool Whip: Gently fold in 2 cups of Cool Whip (half of the total amount) until well blended and smooth. This will create a light and creamy layer.
- Spread over Crust: Once the crust is completely cool, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust.
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Prepare the Butterscotch Layer:
- Combine Pudding Mix and Milk: In another bowl, combine 1 package of instant butterscotch pudding mix (3.4 ounces) with 2 cups of cold milk. Beat with an electric mixer for 2 minutes on medium speed until thickened.
- Spread over Cream Cheese Layer: Spread the prepared pudding over the cream cheese layer, smoothing it out to cover the entire surface.
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Top with Cool Whip:
- Spread Remaining Cool Whip: Finally, spread the remaining Cool Whip over the butterscotch pudding layer, creating a smooth and fluffy topping.
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Chill Thoroughly:
- Refrigerate: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until thoroughly set.
Tips and Variations
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Enhance the Crust: For added texture and flavor, toast the pecans before incorporating them into the crust mixture. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
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Alternative Pudding Flavors: While butterscotch pudding is the star of this recipe, feel free to experiment with other flavors such as chocolate, vanilla, or even banana cream for a unique twist.
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Additional Toppings: Add a decorative touch and extra flavor by sprinkling some crushed butterscotch candies or chocolate shavings on top of the final Cool Whip layer.
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Substitute for Cool Whip: If you prefer a more natural option, you can use freshly whipped cream instead of Cool Whip. Beat 1 ½ cups of heavy whipping cream with 2-3 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, and use as directed.
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Make Ahead: Butterscotch Divine can be made a day in advance, making it an excellent choice for busy schedules or events. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
Butterscotch Divine is best served chilled and cut into squares. It pairs wonderfully with:
- Fresh Berries: A handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries can provide a delightful contrast to the richness of the dessert.
- Coffee or Tea: A cup of coffee or tea can balance out the sweetness, making it a perfect afternoon or post-dinner treat.
- Whipped Cream and Nuts: Add an extra dollop of whipped cream on top and sprinkle with chopped pecans for an elegant presentation.
Storage and Leftovers
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Refrigeration: Store Butterscotch Divine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Ensure it is well-covered to prevent it from absorbing other odors from the fridge.
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Freezing: Although best enjoyed fresh, Butterscotch Divine can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
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Serving Leftovers: If you find the crust becomes a bit soft after refrigeration or freezing, allow the dessert to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving to let the crust regain some of its texture.
Conclusion
Butterscotch Divine is a timeless dessert that effortlessly combines creamy layers and a nutty crust to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert not only satisfies sweet cravings but also brings a touch of elegance to your table. Its make-ahead convenience and ability to serve large groups make it a go-to recipe for potlucks and family gatherings. Enjoy this indulgent treat, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors and toppings to make it your own special creation!
Whether you are looking to impress at your next potluck or simply craving a comforting dessert, Butterscotch Divine is sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe repertoire.
