Name: Harry Potter Cookies with Butterscotch Buttercream Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups flour, gluten free or all purpose; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; ½ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup packed light brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ¼ cup butterscotch syrup or butterscotch ice cream topping; ¼ cup heavy cream; ¼ cup butterscotch chips (optional); ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup butterscotch chips, melted and slightly cooled; 1 cup powdered sugar; ¼ tsp butter extract; ½ tsp vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 50 reviews

If you have ever dreamed of bringing a little Hogwarts magic into your kitchen, this Harry Potter Cookies with Butterscotch Buttercream Recipe is exactly what you need. These delightful cookies capture the enchanting flavors of Butterbeer with their sweet butterscotch and creamy vanilla notes, wrapped in a soft, chewy texture. Each bite feels like a cozy visit to the wizarding world, perfect for parties, celebrations, or just a whimsical treat to brighten your day. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A tall stack of six cookies with light brown frosting between each layer is placed on a small black plate. The cookies are golden brown with a slightly rough texture, and the frosting is creamy and pale beige, evenly spread between the cookie layers. Behind the stack, there is a stack of four old, colorful books with worn covers in green, pink, orange, and gray tones, standing upright. In front of the plate and cookies, a pair of round black glasses rests on a wooden surface. The background shows a detailed, textured black and white pattern. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started with this magical recipe is wonderfully straightforward because the ingredients are simple, yet each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect taste, texture, and that irresistible golden hue you want in your Harry Potter Cookies with Butterscotch Buttercream Recipe.

3 cups flour (gluten free or all purpose): This forms the sturdy base of the cookie that holds all the delicious flavors together.
1 tsp baking powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly for a soft, tender crumb.
½ tsp baking soda: Adds a little lift and contributes to the perfect texture.
½ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness beautifully.
½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Gives richness and a silky texture.
½ cup granulated sugar: Provides classic sweetness without overpowering.
½ cup packed light brown sugar: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel depth.
1 large egg: Binds everything together while adding tenderness.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and a gentle fragrant note.
¼ cup butterscotch syrup (or butterscotch ice cream topping): The star flavor that brings that unmistakable Butterbeer vibe.
¼ cup heavy cream: Enriches the dough for softness and moistness.
¼ cup butterscotch chips (optional): Little pockets of extra butterscotch magic for added texture and taste.

For the Butterscotch Buttercream:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened: The creamy base of our dreamy frosting.
¼ tsp salt: Enhances and balances the sweetness.
½ cup butterscotch chips, melted and slightly cooled: Gives the buttercream an intense butterscotch flavor with a silky texture.
1 cup powdered sugar: Ensures a smooth and sweet finish.
¼ tsp butter extract: Boosts the buttery richness.
½ tsp vanilla extract: Adds subtle depth and aroma.

How to Make Harry Potter Cookies with Butterscotch Buttercream Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together your flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This ensures even distribution so every bite of your Harry Potter Cookies with Butterscotch Buttercream Recipe has the perfect rise and flavor balance.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter alongside granulated and brown sugars until the mixture feels light and fluffy. This step is essential because it traps air, making your cookies tender and beautifully textured.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract to your creamed mixture until everything is smoothly combined, enriching the dough with flavor and helping the ingredients stick together wonderfully.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add your dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until the dough comes together. Overmixing can make cookies tough, so stop once you see everything blended.

Step 5: Stir in Butterscotch and Cream

Add the butterscotch syrup and heavy cream, folding them gently into the dough until it feels cohesive. If you want extra butterscotch sweetness, now is the time to fold in those butterscotch chips. Then, cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for an hour to make it easier to handle and to deepen the flavors.

Step 6: Shape and Bake

Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them spaced about 3 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges turn a pretty golden brown. Let the cookies cool slightly on the baking sheet, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 7: Make the Butterscotch Buttercream

Using a stand mixer, beat the softened butter until nice and fluffy. Gradually add melted butterscotch chips, powdered sugar, salt, butter extract, and vanilla extract. Keep beating until the buttercream is light, smooth, and spreadable.

Step 8: Frost and Enjoy

Once the cookies are fully cooled, spread or pipe the luscious butterscotch buttercream on each one. This finishing touch makes these magical cookies complete and absolutely irresistible.

How to Serve Harry Potter Cookies with Butterscotch Buttercream Recipe

A tall stack of six round cookies each separated by a thick layer of creamy light beige frosting. The cookies have a golden brown color with a slightly crispy, uneven texture and some darker caramelized spots. The stack sits on a white marbled surface with blurry colorful books in the background. The top cookie is broken with a bite taken out showing its soft inside. The frosting layers look smooth and thick between each cookie. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little edible gold dust or shimmer powder on top of the buttercream for that extra wizardly sparkle. Crushed toffee bits or a light drizzle of caramel sauce also make stellar garnishes that add texture and depth.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of spiced chai or a frothy mug of actual Butterbeer for the ultimate magical treat experience. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can also make it an indulgent dessert that fans of all ages will rave about.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Harry Potter Cookies with Butterscotch Buttercream Recipe on an ornate platter alongside collectible wands or themed cards for a Hogwarts party vibe. Or, package them individually in clear cello bags tied with ribbon in house colors for charming gifts or party favors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and soft for up to three days, ready to enjoy whenever the craving hits.

Freezing

If you want to save some magic for later, freeze these cookies unfrosted by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They keep beautifully for up to three months. Thaw before frosting for best results.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat these cookies since they’re best enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled with the buttercream. However, if you prefer a warm treat, gently microwave a cookie for about 10 seconds, just enough to soften it without melting the buttercream.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies gluten free?

Absolutely! This Harry Potter Cookies with Butterscotch Buttercream Recipe works wonderfully with gluten free flour blends, such as King Arthur Flour or Bob’s Red Mill. Just ensure your flour is a 1:1 blend designed for baking to maintain that perfect texture.

What if I don’t have butterscotch syrup?

No worries! You can substitute butterscotch syrup with butterscotch ice cream topping or even a homemade butterscotch sauce. The flavor is essential, so use whatever you can find for that authentic Butterbeer taste.

Why do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling the dough firms it up, making it easier to roll and helping prevent spreading too much during baking. It also allows the flavors to meld and deepen, crucial for nailing the Harry Potter Cookies with Butterscotch Buttercream Recipe.

Can I skip the butterscotch chips?

You can, but those chips add delightful bursts of concentrated butterscotch flavor and texture that elevate the cookies from tasty to magical. I recommend adding them if you want the full Butterbeer effect.

How long does the buttercream frosting last?

The butterscotch buttercream can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Let it return to room temperature and re-whip before spreading if it firms up.

Final Thoughts

Making these Harry Potter Cookies with Butterscotch Buttercream Recipe is like inviting a little magic into your kitchen and onto your taste buds. From the nostalgic Butterbeer-inspired flavors to the soft, luscious texture and that dreamy buttercream, these cookies are truly a treat worth sharing. I can’t wait for you to try them and see how they bring a touch of Hogwarts charm to your next gathering or cozy night in!