As a sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that butterscotch does not contain any trace amounts of scotch or alcohol. This is a common misnomer that has been perpetuated over time, leading many people to believe that butterscotch and scotch are somehow related.
To clarify, butterscotch is a type of confectionery made from butter and brown sugar. It is typically cooked until it reaches a caramel-like consistency, giving it its rich and creamy flavor. The name “butterscotch” is believed to come from the combination of “butter” and “scotch,” referring to the process of cooking the butter and sugar to create a toffee-like texture.
However, it is important to note that the term “scotch” in this context does not refer to the alcoholic beverage commonly known as Scotch whisky. The use of the word “scotch” in butterscotch is purely a linguistic coincidence and does not indicate any connection to alcohol.
In fact, nearly all traditional and contemporary butterscotch recipes do not call for any Scotch whisky. The base ingredients typically include butter, brown sugar, and sometimes additional flavorings such as vanilla extract or salt. The cooking process involves melting the butter and sugar together until they form a smooth and creamy mixture.
It is worth mentioning that some adventurous cooks may choose to enhance their butterscotch recipes by adding a small amount of Scotch whisky for an extra layer of complexity and depth of flavor. However, this is not a standard or traditional practice in butterscotch-making.
In my personal experience, I have come across various homemade butterscotch recipes, and none of them have ever called for Scotch whisky. The focus is always on the buttery and caramel flavors derived from the combination of butter and brown sugar.
To sum up, the belief that butterscotch contains Scotch whisky is a misconception. The name “butterscotch” does not indicate any connection to alcohol, and the vast majority of butterscotch recipes do not include any Scotch whisky. The true essence of butterscotch lies in the combination of butter and brown sugar, resulting in a delectably rich and creamy treat.