If you have a soft spot for all things rich, sweet, and utterly comforting, this Butterscotch Bread Loaf with Butterscotch Glaze Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine a moist, tender loaf infused with the warm, buttery depths of instant butterscotch pudding and topped with a glossy, irresistible butterscotch glaze. Every slice melts on your tongue, offering the perfect balance of sweet and buttery flavors that feel like a cozy hug on a plate. Whether you’re baking for a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a delightful dessert, this loaf hits every note with ease and charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is the beauty of this recipe. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect texture and that signature butterscotch flavor that makes this bread so special.
- Instant butterscotch pudding mix (3.4 oz): This secret ingredient adds intense butterscotch richness and keeps the bread wonderfully moist.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): The base that gives the bread structure and a tender crumb.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the bread rise beautifully, lightening the texture.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Works with the sour cream to give the loaf that perfect lift and subtle tang.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Adds sweetness and contributes to a golden crust.
- Unsalted butter, softened (1/2 cup): Provides richness and a smooth, tender crumb.
- Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients and add depth to the flavor.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Brings warmth and depth to enhance the butterscotch notes.
- Milk (2/3 cup): Keeps the batter smooth and incorporates moisture.
- Sour cream (2 tablespoons): Adds tenderness and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Used for the glaze to add a sweet finishing touch.
- Milk (2-3 tablespoons): Blended into the glaze for smooth drizzle consistency.
- Vanilla extract (1/4 teaspoon): Infuses the glaze with aromatic notes.
- Butterscotch chips (1/4 cup): Sprinkled on top for extra bursts of buttery, sweet crunch.
How to Make Butterscotch Bread Loaf with Butterscotch Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 9×5-inch loaf pan and either grease it well or line it with parchment paper for an easy release. This simple step ensures your loaf comes out flawlessly every time.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, instant butterscotch pudding mix, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Setting this mixture aside, you’re making sure these dry components are evenly combined before joining them with the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using an electric mixer, cream the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes and is key to incorporating air for that tender crumb.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar, allowing each egg to fully combine before adding the next. Then, mix in the vanilla extract, which layers in beautiful aroma and flavor.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Start adding the dry ingredient mixture in batches, alternating with the milk and sour cream. Mix after each addition but be careful not to overmix the batter — this step will ensure your bread stays soft and moist without becoming dense.
Step 6: Bake the Loaf
Pour your luscious batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top evenly with a spatula. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling the perfect bake.
Step 7: Cool the Bread
Once baked, let the bread rest in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This keeps the bread from becoming soggy and helps it set for slicing.
Step 8: Prepare and Drizzle the Butterscotch Glaze
Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create a smooth, sweet glaze. Drizzle this glaze generously over the cooled loaf, then sprinkle it with butterscotch chips for that final glorious touch.
How to Serve Butterscotch Bread Loaf with Butterscotch Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of crushed pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon on top of the glaze introduces a delightful crunch and depth of flavor. Fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside a slice can elevate this loaf into an indulgent dessert experience.
Side Dishes
This butterscotch bread loaf is a fabulous companion to a warm cup of coffee or tea, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat. For brunch spreads, pairing it with fruit salads or creamy yogurt creates a nice balance of textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving thick slices stacked with a smear of butter or cream cheese in between for an irresistible sandwich-style treat. Alternatively, turn it into French toast by dipping slices in egg batter and pan-frying until golden for a decadent breakfast twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Butterscotch Bread Loaf with Butterscotch Glaze Recipe tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep it moist and fresh.
Freezing
To freeze, slice the loaf first, then wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can thaw exactly what you need and enjoy fresh, buttery sweetness whenever cravings strike. Frozen slices last up to three months.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds or toast them for a warm, crispy edge that brings out the butterscotch flavor even more. If frozen, thaw at room temperature before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use regular pudding instead of instant butterscotch pudding mix?
This recipe relies on the dry instant pudding mix to give the bread its unique texture and flavor, so regular prepared pudding won’t work as well. Stick to dry instant pudding for best results.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Also, check that your pudding mix and sour cream are dairy-free or find suitable alternatives.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the batter?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even chocolate chips complement the butterscotch flavor nicely. Just fold them in gently before pouring the batter into the pan.
How long does the glaze last once applied?
The butterscotch glaze is best enjoyed the day of baking for that perfect drizzled shine. It can last up to two days stored in the fridge, but it may lose some of its glossy appeal over time.
Can I bake this recipe as cupcakes or muffins?
Yes, you can! Just adjust the baking time to about 18-22 minutes and watch them closely. The flavors remain just as delicious in smaller, handheld treats.
Final Thoughts
Making this Butterscotch Bread Loaf with Butterscotch Glaze Recipe is like creating a little slice of bliss right in your own kitchen. The warm, buttery flavors combined with that perfectly sweet glaze bring comfort and joy to any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and share these moments of sweet satisfaction with your loved ones!
Print
Butterscotch Bread Loaf with Butterscotch Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 14 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Butterscotch Bread is a moist and flavorful quick bread featuring instant butterscotch pudding mix for a rich, sweet taste. Topped with a simple butterscotch glaze and sprinkled with butterscotch chips, it’s perfect for a cozy snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 3.4 ounce instant butterscotch pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup milk
- 2 Tablespoons sour cream
Glaze and Topping
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 Tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup butterscotch chips (to sprinkle on top)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, instant butterscotch pudding mix, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until fully combined. Set aside.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter with granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time into the creamed butter mixture, followed by the vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well combined before moving on.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Alternately add the dry ingredient mixture and the liquids (milk and sour cream) in batches, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the bread tender.
- Transfer batter and bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the bread: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully remove it and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare and apply glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create a sweet glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread, then sprinkle with butterscotch chips to finish.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened for easy creaming with sugar.
- Do not overmix the batter once dry and wet ingredients are combined to keep the bread moist and tender.
- Use a toothpick test to check doneness; if it comes out clean, the bread is done baking.
- The glaze can be adjusted for thickness by altering the milk amount.
- Store bread covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
