What is the actual flavor of butterscotch?

Butterscotch has a rich, buttery flavor with deep notes of brown sugar and a subtle caramelized warmth. Unlike caramel, which is made with white sugar, butterscotch uses brown sugar, giving it a deeper, more molasses-like profile. It’s the cozy essence behind any great butterscotch cheesecake dessert .

What is the difference between caramel and butterscotch?

Caramel starts with granulated sugar cooked to a golden brown, while butterscotch begins with brown sugar melted in butter. Caramel is often more intense and slightly bitter; butterscotch is softer, richer, and sweeter, making it ideal for dessert recipes like cheesecakes or Strawberry Cheesecake Dump .

Is butterscotch a natural flavor?

Traditional butterscotch flavor is derived from real butter and brown sugar. However, many commercial products use artificial flavorings. Making your own from scratch—as we do in this cheesecake—is both natural and way more delicious.

What is butterscotch extract made of?

Butterscotch extract typically contains flavoring compounds that mimic the taste of brown sugar and butter, often using alcohol as a base. While it can be handy, you won’t need it for this homemade butterscotch cheesecake dessert —our sauce is all real ingredients.

What flavor goes best with butterscotch?

Vanilla, sea salt, banana, pecan, white chocolate, and coffee all complement butterscotch beautifully. Try pairing with a bold espresso or topping with candied nuts for contrast.

How to make butterscotch sauce?

Melt butter and brown sugar together, then stir in heavy cream and a splash of vanilla. Simmer until it thickens—easy, silky, and perfect for drizzling.

Loaded Butterscotch Cheesecake: The Creamiest Dessert With a Crunchy Twist

Description

A decadent loaded butterscotch cheesecake with a salty-sweet crust, creamy filling, homemade butterscotch sauce, and indulgent toppings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ cups crushed graham crackers

½ cup crushed pretzels

⅓ cup brown sugar

½ cup melted butter

3 (8 oz) cream cheese blocks, softened

1 cup brown sugar (for filling)

3 eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

½ cup sour cream

¼ cup heavy cream

½ cup homemade butterscotch sauce (see below)

Toppings: whipped cream, toffee bits, sea salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line bottom of a springform pan.

2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, pretzels, sugar, and melted butter. Press into pan.

3. Bake crust for 10 minutes, then cool.

4. In a bowl, beat cream cheese and brown sugar until smooth.

5. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla, sour cream, and heavy cream.

6. Stir in ¼ cup of the butterscotch sauce.

7. Pour mixture into crust. Wrap pan with foil and place in water bath.

8. Bake 50–60 minutes or until center is just set.

9. Cool at room temperature, then chill overnight.

10. Before serving, drizzle with remaining butterscotch sauce.

11. Add whipped cream, toffee bits, and sea salt as toppings.

Notes

Make butterscotch sauce by melting ½ cup butter with 1 cup brown sugar, then stir in ½ cup heavy cream and 1 tsp vanilla.

Use a hot knife for clean slices.

Store leftovers chilled for up to 5 days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 520
Sugar: 38g
Sodium: 280mg
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg