Butterscotch Cupcakes with Pecans

Name: Butterscotch Cupcakes with Pecans
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped pecans; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 cup butterscotch sauce; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Delicious Desserts Made Simple

I absolutely adore baking these butterscotch cupcakes with pecans! The rich, buttery flavor combined with the crunch of the pecans creates an irresistible treat that's perfect for any occasion. Each bite transports me to a cozy café where the aroma of fresh pastries fills the air. These cupcakes are not only delicious but also simple to whip up, making them a go-to recipe whenever I'm in the mood to impress my friends and family. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll understand why they hold a special place in my heart.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:17:28.106Z

When I first experimented with butterscotch flavors, I knew I had to try it in cupcake form. The results were phenomenal! The sweet butterscotch pairs beautifully with the nutty pecans, bringing texture and depth to each cupcake. Using brown sugar in the batter gives it that signature butterscotch taste that truly sets these cupcakes apart from the rest.

One of the tips I've learned is to toast the pecans beforehand. This simple step enhances their flavor and crunch, making the cupcakes even more delightful. It's these little details that elevate this recipe and make it a favorite in my baking repertoire.

Why You Will Love These Cupcakes
Decadent butterscotch frosting that melts in your mouth
Crunchy pecans add the perfect texture contrast
A delightful treat that brings smiles to every gathering

The Role of Ingredients

In baking butterscotch cupcakes, each ingredient serves a crucial purpose to achieve the desired flavor and texture. The combination of unsalted butter and sugars creates a rich, moist base that is key to the cupcake's tenderness. The brown sugar enhances the deep, caramel-like flavor, while the granulated sugar helps the cupcakes rise. When choosing butter, ensure it’s softened but not melted; this aids in creating a light and fluffy batter that will yield cupcakes with a soft crumb.

Eggs are not just for binding; they also provide structure and moisture. When beaten into the mixture, they contribute to the overall lift and stability of the cupcakes. Milk adds additional moisture, making the cupcakes tender, while the baking powder and baking soda ensure they rise sufficiently in the oven. Be cautious not to overmix after adding the dry ingredients, as this can develop gluten and lead to a heavier texture—definitely not what we want in light, airy cupcakes!

Frosting Techniques

Achieving the perfect butterscotch frosting is essential to complement your cupcakes. Be sure to use softened butter when preparing the frosting; this ensures that it mixes smoothly with the powdered sugar and other ingredients, resulting in a creamy consistency. If you find your frosting too thick, you can add a teaspoon of milk at a time until it reaches the desired spreadable texture.

When incorporating the butterscotch sauce, choose one that is of high quality for the best flavor. The sauce brings a sweet, buttery richness that pairs beautifully with the nutty notes of the chopped pecans. For an extra level of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the frosting, which will enhance the sweetness and create a delightful contrast. Feel free to experiment with the butterscotch sauce; homemade versions often offer a deeper, more complex flavor.

Ingredients

Gather all the wonderful ingredients before you start making these cupcakes!

For the Cupcakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped pecans

For the Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup butterscotch sauce
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Make sure to check that you have everything ready before you start baking!

Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s get started on these delicious cupcakes!

Prepare the Oven and Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

Fold in Pecans and Bake

Gently fold in the chopped pecans. Divide the batter evenly into a greased or lined muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full. Bake for 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Frosting

While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the frosting by beating together the softened butter, powdered sugar, butterscotch sauce, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy.

Frost and Serve

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the butterscotch frosting. Top with additional chopped pecans if desired. Enjoy your delicious butterscotch cupcakes!

Your kitchen will smell heavenly, and the taste will be even better!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding some butterscotch chips into the batter for added sweetness and texture.

Make-Ahead Tips

These butterscotch cupcakes can be made in advance, which is perfect for parties or gatherings. After baking, allow the cupcakes to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’re looking to store them for longer, consider freezing them. Place the cooled cupcakes in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

When you’re ready to enjoy, simply remove the cupcakes from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Frost them just before serving for a fresh taste—this ensures the frosting doesn’t lose its delightful texture. If you’d like to prepare the frosting ahead of time as well, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a quick re-whip before spreading for the best consistency.

Serving Suggestions

These butterscotch cupcakes are lovely on their own, but elevating their presentation can make them even more delightful. For a stunning dessert display, consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzling warm butterscotch sauce over them. This adds a lovely contrast of temperature and texture, enhancing the overall experience.

Another fun way to serve your cupcakes is by creating a cupcake tower at gatherings. You can arrange the cupcakes on tiers and embellish them with candied pecans or edible gold leaf for a festive touch. For autumn-themed occasions, sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg on top before serving; this warm spice will complement the butterscotch flavors beautifully. No matter how you choose to serve your delicious cupcakes, they are sure to be a hit!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts in this recipe?

Absolutely! While pecans add a wonderful flavor, walnuts or almonds can also work well.

→ How do I store leftover cupcakes?

Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend!

→ What’s the best way to frost cupcakes?

Using a piping bag with a star tip gives a beautiful and professional finish to your frosting.