Jump to Recipe Print RecipeStepping into the warmth of a kitchen filled with the aroma of baked cookies is like wrapping yourself in a cozy hug. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies—your new go-to treat that perfectly combines sweet and salty flavors. With an effortless preparation process, these cookies will impress your friends and family without keeping you in the kitchen for hours. The magic happens when gooey butterscotch meets rich chocolate chips, all crowned with a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate each indulgent bite. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying them solo with a cup of coffee, these cookies are sure to bring joy to any moment. Curious to discover how easy it is to whip up this delightful batch? Let’s dive into the details! Why Will You Love These Cookies? Satisfying Flavor Explosion: Your taste buds will rejoice as the rich chocolate blends beautifully with gooey butterscotch, creating a perfect harmony of sweetness. Quick and Simple: With straightforward steps, these cookies come together in no time—ideal for those busy days when you crave homemade goodness. Versatile Enjoyment: Whether you pair them with a glass of milk or enjoy them alongside a cup of coffee, they’re perfect for any occasion. Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Friends and family are sure to clamor for seconds; these cookies are that good! For a similar sweet experience, try my Chocolate Peanut Butter or Cosmic Brownie Cookies. Perfect for Every Skill Level: Even novice bakers will find success with this recipe, making it a confidence-boosting choice! Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookie Ingredients For the Cookie Dough Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and structure; be sure it’s not too soft to maintain cookie height. Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a deep caramel flavor that enriches the cookie experience. Granulated Sugar – Contributes sweetness and helps achieve a crisp texture in the final product. Large Egg – Binds everything together while adding moisture for a luscious bite. Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor with its warm and inviting aroma. All-Purpose Flour – The backbone of the cookies; accurate measurement is key for the best results. Baking Soda – Provides essential leavening for achieving that light and chewy texture. Salt – Balances sweetness and boosts all the flavors in your Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies. Butterscotch Chips – Brings sweetness and a soft, chewy texture; feel free to adjust the amount for your taste. Semisweet Chocolate Chips – Offers a rich chocolate flavor that pairs perfectly with butterscotch. For the Topping Sea Salt Sprinkles – Sprinkle on top just after baking to elevate the sweet and salty flavor profile with a delightful crunch. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Preparing the sheets in advance ensures you can easily transfer the cookies once they are ready to bake, keeping the process smooth and efficient. Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold unsalted butter with both brown sugar and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it’s creamy and well combined—about 2-3 minutes. The goal is to achieve a light and fluffy texture, allowing the sugar and butter to blend harmoniously for your Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies. Step 3: Incorporate Egg and Vanilla Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the buttery mixture. Mix on low speed until these ingredients are fully incorporated, which should take about 30 seconds. This step brings moisture and flavor to the cookie dough, setting the stage for those sweet and salty flavors to shine through in the final cookies. Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt into the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed just until combined, being careful not to overmix. The dough may appear slightly lumpy, but that’s perfect for keeping your Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies soft and chewy after baking. Step 5: Fold in the Chips With a spatula, gently fold in the butterscotch chips and semisweet chocolate chips until they’re evenly dispersed throughout the dough. This is the moment when the rich chocolate and soft buttery sweetness start to come together, promising an indulgent experience with each bite. Step 6: Shape the Cookies Using a cookie scoop or a heaping tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading, with about 6-8 cookies per sheet. The delightful shapes will create those perfectly chewy Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies as they bake. Step 7: Add Extra Chips (Optional) If desired, press a few extra chocolate and butterscotch chips gently into the tops of the dough balls before baking. This visual enhancement not only looks appealing but allows for a richer chocolate and butterscotch experience in every bite, elevating your cookies even further. Step 8: Bake to Perfection Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-13 minutes. Keep an eye on them, looking for lightly browned edges and a firm top—this is a sign that your Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies are nearly done. Remember, shorter baking times yield softer cookies, so adjust according to your preference. Step 9: Cool and Sprinkle Once the cookies are out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. This is your chance to sprinkle them with sea salt while they are still warm to enhance that sweet and salty flavor. After cooling slightly, transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool completely, allowing the textures to finish setting beautifully. Make Ahead Options These Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully while maintaining the cookie’s fresh taste and texture. For even longer storage, you can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and place the frozen dough balls directly onto the baking sheet, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, you’ll have delicious, fresh cookies with minimal effort, making busy weeknights feel a little sweeter! How to Store and Freeze Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their chewy texture and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a zip-top bag for up to 30 days. Lay flat to prevent sticking, and remove as much air as possible before sealing. Thawing: To enjoy frozen cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. They’ll taste just as fresh as when they were baked! Reheating: For a warm treat, pop the thawed cookies in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore that delightful, gooey consistency. Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful variations to customize your cookies and make them your own! Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch in every bite. The nuts add a beautiful texture contrast to the softness of the cookies. White Chocolate Twist: Substitute half of the butterscotch chips with white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier flavor. This twist gives your cookies a luxurious and rich feel, perfect for special occasions! Darker Delicacy: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet for a bolder, less sweet flavor. The combination of dark chocolate and butterscotch creates a gourmet experience right in your kitchen! Spiced Sensation: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for a warm, cozy flavor, reminiscent of fall baked goods. The hint of spice elevates the sweetness and creates a comforting aroma while baking. Chewy Coconut: Mix in shredded coconut for an extra layer of flavor and chewiness. Coconut pairs surprisingly well with both chocolate and butterscotch, adding a tropical twist! Add a Little Heat: For those who like a bit of kick, add a few pinches of cayenne pepper or chipotle powder. The heat enhances the sweetness, creating a unique flavor experience that’s sure to surprise your guests. Holiday Cheer: Incorporate festive sprinkles or crushed candy canes for a seasonal flair. These fun additions make your cookies festive and perfect for holiday parties. Butterscotch Swirl: Instead of chips, try swirling in warm butterscotch sauce into the dough before baking. This luscious twist promises a gooey, sweet surprise in each bite. With all these possibilities, your Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies will never get boring! And if you’re in the mood for more sweetness, don’t forget to try my Chocolate Chip Cookie bars or the delicious Pink Hot Chocolate. Enjoy experimenting! Expert Tips for Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies Butter Temperature: Use cold unsalted butter straight from the fridge. Overly soft butter can lead to flat cookies, so avoid that mistake for fluffy results. Mixing Method: Mix until ingredients just come together; overmixing can develop gluten and create tough cookies. Keep that tender texture! Topping Enhancement: For an extra indulgent cookie experience, press additional butterscotch and chocolate chips on top before baking. This elevates the presentation and boosts flavor. Baking Time: Adjust baking times to your preference: 8-10 minutes yields softer cookies, while 10-13 minutes gives you a firmer texture. Even Sizing: Ensure equal dough portions for uniform baking. Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to keep the cookies consistent in size, resulting in even baking throughout. What to Serve with Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies Savor the ultimate cookie experience by pairing these sweet and salty treats with delightful accompaniments that enhance their deliciousness. Cold Milk: The classic pairing—its creamy texture balances the cookie’s sweetness, making each bite even more enjoyable. Rich Coffee: Brew a cup of your favorite dark roast; the bold flavors will enhance the butterscotch and chocolate, creating a delicious contrast. Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop alongside warm cookies for a decadent dessert; the melting ice cream adds a creamy sweetness that’s irresistible. Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries offer a tartness that beautifully cuts through the rich flavors of butterscotch chocolate chip cookies. Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A light drizzle of warm chocolate sauce over the cookies can elevate your dessert into pure indulgence—perfect for satisfying any chocolate lover. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel adds an extra layer of sweetness and decadence that pairs perfectly with the buttery notes in the cookies. Sparkling Water: For a refreshing beverage option, a chilled glass of sparkling water will cleanse your palate between bites, enhancing your cookie experience. Your cookie adventure awaits—try these combinations and let the delightful flavors dance on your taste buds! Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe ingredients for this recipe? Absolutely! For the best results, always opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients. Choose unsalted butter that is cold or at room temperature—avoid overly soft butter as it may yield flat cookies. When selecting brown sugar, ensure it’s soft and moist, which helps enhance the cookie’s flavor and texture. If your butterscotch and chocolate chips have a good sheen and are within their expiration dates, they’re ready to add that delightful sweetness! What is the best way to store these cookies? To keep your Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. This will maintain their chewy texture and delicious flavors. If you find you’re unable to finish them within this timeframe, consider freezing them to enjoy later! Can I freeze these cookies, and if so, how? Absolutely, freezing is a great way to extend shelf life! To freeze baked cookies, first let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the cookies into a zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored this way for up to 30 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. What should I do if my cookies turn out flat? Very often, flat cookies are caused by overly soft butter or too much mixing after adding the flour. To remedy this, make sure to use cold butter straight from the fridge and mix your dough just until combined—don’t overmix! Additionally, checking and measuring your flour accurately can also ensure the right dough consistency, helping you achieve that perfect thick cookie! Are there any dietary considerations for this cookie recipe? Yes! If you’re baking for someone with allergies, this recipe does contain dairy (butter and chocolate), eggs, and gluten (all-purpose flour). If you’re looking for alternatives, you might consider using dairy-free butter or egg substitutes for a vegan version. Always double-check your ingredient labels to ensure they align with any dietary restrictions, especially if sharing these cookies with friends or family! Irresistible Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies to Satisfy You Experience a delightful flavor explosion with Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookies that combine sweet and salty for a satisfying treat. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 13 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 33 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 160 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Dough1 cup Unsalted Butter cold, not too soft1 cup Brown Sugar adds moisture and caramel flavor1 cup Granulated Sugar contributes sweetness1 large Egg binds ingredients together2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract enhances flavor2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour accurate measurement is key1 teaspoon Baking Soda provides leavening0.5 teaspoon Salt balances sweetness1 cup Butterscotch Chips adjust amount to taste1 cup Semisweet Chocolate Chips rich flavorFor the Topping1 teaspoon Sea Salt Sprinkles to sprinkle on top after baking Equipment Mixing bowlElectric MixerCookie scoopBaking sheetsParchment paper Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Sea Salt Butterscotch Chocolate Chip CookiesPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold unsalted butter with both brown sugar and granulated sugar. Beat until creamy and well combined, about 2-3 minutes.Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the mixture. Mix on low speed until fully incorporated, about 30 seconds.Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix on low speed just until combined.Gently fold in the butterscotch chips and semisweet chocolate chips until they're evenly dispersed.Using a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.If desired, press a few extra chocolate and butterscotch chips into the tops of the dough before baking.Bake for 10-13 minutes until edges are lightly browned and tops are firm. Adjust baking time for softer or firmer cookies.Let cookies cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with sea salt while warm, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 160kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 1gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 100IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg NotesUse cold unsalted butter for fluffy cookies. Don't overmix the dough to maintain tenderness. Adjust baking times for softness preference. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!