The Butterscotch Caramel Cashew Bars Recipe is a mouthwatering treat that perfectly balances rich butterscotch sweetness, sticky caramel, and the satisfying crunch of roasted salted cashews all atop a golden buttery crust. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert or a special homemade gift, these bars are irresistibly gooey, nutty, and utterly addictive. Easy to prepare yet impressive in flavor and texture, they become a beloved favorite every time you make them.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view of several small white bowls arranged in a loose circle on a white marbled surface, each filled with different baking ingredients: a bowl full of white flour in the center, a bowl of light brown sugar behind it, a bowl of white sugar to the left of the brown sugar, a bowl of light caramel-colored liquid to the far left, a small bowl of clear oil below the flour, mixed light beige cashew nuts in a white bowl at the bottom right, golden brown baking chips next to a stick of salted butter in white wrapping on the right side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is the first step to making these bars shine. Each component plays a key role in creating layers of texture, from the tender crust to the luscious topping and finally the crunchy nuts.

Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, room temperature): Provides a rich, creamy base for the crust and helps it bake to a beautiful golden finish.
Brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Adds deep caramel notes and a touch of moisture to keep the crust chewy.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
All-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups): The structure hero that forms the sturdy yet tender bar base.
Butterscotch chips (1 1/2 cups): Melt down to create a luscious caramel layer that’s rich and buttery.
Corn syrup (3/4 cup): Keeps the caramel glossy and gooey without crystallizing.
Water (1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon): Helps dissolve the butterscotch and corn syrup for even melting.
Roasted salted whole cashews (2 cups): Add a satisfying crunch and salty contrast to the sweet topping.
Cooking spray: Ensures easy removal of bars from the pan and prevents sticking.

How to Make Butterscotch Caramel Cashew Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing a 13×9 inch pan with cooking spray. For an easy release, line the pan with two sheets of parchment paper placed both widthwise and lengthwise, creating a sling you can lift the bars out with. Don’t forget to lightly spray the parchment paper as well. Then, simply gather and measure out all your ingredients so you’re ready to go.

Step 2: Make the Buttery Crust

Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and salt together for about 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step ensures your crust will be rich and slightly caramelized in flavor.

Step 3: Add the Flour

Lower the mixer speed to low, then gradually add the all-purpose flour. Mix just until all the flour is incorporated and a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the crust tender and crumbly rather than tough.

Step 4: Form and Bake the Crust

Press this dough evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing it into the edges. Poke the surface with a fork all over to allow steam to escape while baking. Bake the crust for 35 to 40 minutes or until it’s a gorgeous golden brown, giving the bars that perfect base.

Step 5: Prepare the Butterscotch Caramel Topping

While the crust bakes, combine the butterscotch chips, corn syrup, and water in a heavy saucepan over low heat. Stir gently until the mixture simmers and the butterscotch chips are fully melted into a glossy, smooth caramel topping.

Step 6: Add Topping and Cashews, Then Finish Baking

Remove the crust from the oven and set it on a wire rack to cool briefly. Pour the warm butterscotch caramel evenly over the crust, spreading it smoothly to all edges. Immediately sprinkle the whole roasted salted cashews over the caramel layer in a single, even layer. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes to set the toppings just right.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack to let the caramel firm up nicely. Once cooled, use the parchment paper sling to lift the bars out of the pan, then cut them into 18 squares with a sharp knife. Each bar offers a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and nutty flavor in every bite.

How to Serve Butterscotch Caramel Cashew Bars Recipe

This image shows a close-up of a clear glass pan filled with a single layer of glossy caramel sauce, which is deep golden brown in color and smooth in texture. On top of the caramel, there is an even layer of whole cashew nuts scattered across the surface, their pale beige color contrasting with the rich caramel beneath. The edges of the pan reveal some caramel residue, adding a rustic look. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt or drizzle melted chocolate over each bar. Adding a few extra chopped cashews on top gives an inviting rustic look and highlights their wonderful crunch.

Side Dishes

These bars pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a decadent dessert experience. A hot cup of coffee or spiced tea can also complement the rich butterscotch and caramel notes perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the bars in a clear glass jar tied with a ribbon for a charming gift. Or arrange them on a decorative platter alongside fresh seasonal berries and edible flowers for an impressive dessert display at your next party or gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They hold their texture and flavor wonderfully, making them a convenient treat to enjoy throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to save some bars for later, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

Reheating

Warm the bars gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked gooeyness, or heat them briefly in a low-temperature oven if you prefer a slightly crisp top layer again.

FAQs

Can I substitute the cashews with other nuts?

Absolutely! Pecans, walnuts, or almonds work wonderfully and each brings a slightly different crunch and flavor profile while keeping the bar equally delicious.

Is it necessary to use corn syrup in this recipe?

Corn syrup helps prevent crystallization and keeps the caramel smooth and shiny, but you can substitute with light honey or golden syrup with similar results.

Can these bars be made gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, you can make these bars gluten-free. Just be sure to use a blend designed for baking to maintain the right texture.

How long do these bars last at room temperature?

Stored in an airtight container, these bars typically stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days at room temperature.

What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?

Using a very sharp knife and wiping it clean between cuts will help you get neat edges without dragging the caramel or nuts.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the Butterscotch Caramel Cashew Bars Recipe that makes every bite feel like a comforting hug. Their perfect mix of textures and flavors makes them a dessert that’s sure to impress, whether for a special occasion or just because life calls for a little sweet indulgence. Go ahead and give this recipe a try — I promise it’ll become one of your favorites to bake and share!