Butterscotch Pudding Layer Bars – A Sweet & Irresistible Treat

Oh, friends—thank you for being here today! I can’t wait to share a recipe that’s near and dear to my heart: Butterscotch Pudding Layer Bars. Sweet, creamy, and nostalgic, these bars bring back memories of summer potlucks at my grandma’s house where a chilled layered dessert was always the star of the table. This dessert has it all: a buttery graham cracker crust, velvety pudding layers, and a topping that makes every bite feel like a celebration.

If you love layered desserts that are as pretty as they are delicious, you’re in for a treat. Make sure to subscribe to my email list so you never miss a new recipe straight from my kitchen!

Overview of Recipe Content

What are Butterscotch Pudding Layer Bars?
They’re a chilled, layered dessert featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust, a rich cream cheese layer, luscious butterscotch pudding, and whipped topping. Perfect for when you need something that looks impressive but comes together with ease.

Why You’ll Love It

• No-bake convenience
• Creamy and crunchy textures in one bite
• Crowd-pleaser for holidays, family gatherings, or casual weeknights
• Easy to make ahead

Flavor Profile
Think sweet caramel-like butterscotch, balanced by tangy cream cheese and a buttery crust. Each bite is smooth, cool, and comforting.

Seasonal Relevance
This is the kind of dessert that works all year: refreshing in summer and indulgent enough for fall and winter holidays.

Ingredients:
For the crust:

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• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the cream cheese layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup whipped topping

For the pudding layer:

• 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant butterscotch pudding mix
• 3 cups cold milk

For the topping:

• 2 cups whipped topping
• Butterscotch chips or toffee bits, for garnish (optional)

Tools Needed:

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula

Substitutions & Additions:

• Swap graham crackers for vanilla wafers or shortbread.
• Use sugar-free pudding for a lighter version.
• Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crust for extra crunch.

How to Make Butterscotch Pudding Layer Bars

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1. Prepare the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch dish. Chill for 15 minutes.
2. Cream cheese layer: Beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped topping and spread over the crust.
3. Pudding layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together butterscotch pudding mix and milk until thickened. Pour over the cream cheese layer.
4. Final layer: Spread remaining whipped topping evenly across the pudding layer. Garnish with butterscotch chips or toffee bits if desired.
5. Chill & serve: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) before slicing into bars.

Pro tip: The longer it chills, the cleaner the layers look when cut!

What to Serve with Butterscotch Pudding Layer Bars

• A cup of hot coffee or espresso for contrast
• A glass of cold milk for kids (and adults!)
• A light savory main course like Easy Chicken Salad Sandwiches before indulging in this sweet finish

Tips for Making It Perfect

• Use room-temperature cream cheese for a silky filling.
• Whip the pudding until just thickened—overmixing can cause it to separate.
• For neat slices, wipe your knife clean between each cut.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze (without the top whipped layer) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before adding topping.

General Information

Did you know butterscotch dates back to 19th-century England? Originally made by “scorching” sugar and butter, it became a favorite flavor in candies and puddings. This dessert is a playful American twist, turning a classic pudding into a layered bar everyone can enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, it’s even better when chilled overnight.

Can I use cook-and-serve pudding instead of instant?
Yes, but allow it to cool completely before layering.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Swap graham crackers for gluten-free cookies.

Can I reduce the sweetness?
Use less sugar in the crust and sugar-free pudding mix.

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Conclusion

These Butterscotch Pudding Layer Bars are the kind of dessert that gets people talking at the table. Creamy, sweet, and with just enough crunch, they’re perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any time you need a little comfort in dessert form.

If you loved this recipe, you’ll also enjoy:

• Easy No Bake Cheesecake Cups

Until next time, happy cooking my friends—and don’t forget to tag me on Pinterest when you make these bars!

Interactive Elements

I’d love to hear from you!

• Leave a review below if you tried this recipe.
• Snap a photo and share it on Pinterest or tag me on Instagram @poulefrecipe.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 12 servings)

Calories	Carbs	Protein	Fat	Saturated Fat	Sugar	Fiber	Sodium
320	38g	4g	18g	9g	25g	1g	190mg

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