Butterscotch Pie

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Butterscotch Pie is decadent yet simple, with a luscious filling that has the perfect balance of sweetness and butteriness. The filling is velvety smooth and rich, while the crust adds a delightful crunch to every bite. With just the right amount of vanilla and a subtle hint of salt to balance the sweetness, this pie is a must-try for anyone who loves a classic dessert. It’s a perfect treat for family gatherings, holidays, or whenever you’re in the mood for something indulgent.

Ingredients

For the Butterscotch Filling:

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 3 large egg yolks
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 2 cups whole milk
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Pie Crust: Start by preparing your favorite pie crust. You can use a store-bought pie crust or make your own. Bake it according to the package instructions or your homemade recipe, and allow it to cool completely before filling.
2. Make the Butterscotch Filling:
   • In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and stir until it has dissolved into the butter and the mixture is smooth.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
   • Gradually add the whole milk to the brown sugar mixture, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Once the milk is added, bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking constantly.
   • Once the mixture begins to thicken, slowly pour about ½ cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Then, slowly add the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan, stirring constantly.
   • Continue to cook the mixture, whisking, until it thickens into a custard-like consistency. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Fill the Pie:
   • Pour the butterscotch filling into the cooled pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set the filling.
4. Serve: Once the pie has chilled and set, top it with whipped cream, if desired, and a sprinkle of shaved chocolate or butterscotch chips for added flavor and decoration.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Chilling Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Variations

• Topping Ideas: In addition to whipped cream, you can top the pie with crushed toffee bits, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce.
• Nutty Version: Add some chopped toasted pecans or walnuts to the filling or as a topping for extra crunch and flavor.
• Make It Chocolate: For a twist, add a layer of melted chocolate at the bottom of the pie crust before adding the butterscotch filling for a chocolate-butterscotch combination.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep it chilled to maintain its creamy texture.
• Freezing: Butterscotch Pie can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use a pre-made pie crust?

Yes, you can use a store-bought pie crust to save time. Just be sure to bake it according to the package directions and let it cool before filling.

2. Can I make this pie without egg yolks?

Unfortunately, egg yolks are essential for creating the custard-like filling in Butterscotch Pie. You can try using a substitute like cornstarch or arrowroot powder, but the texture and flavor may vary.

3. Can I add a layer of whipped cream to the pie?

Yes! Whipped cream adds a light and fluffy texture that complements the rich butterscotch filling. It’s a classic topping for Butterscotch Pie.

4. Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the butterscotch filling ahead of time. Let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to fill the pie crust.

5. Can I make this pie gluten-free?

Yes, you can make the pie gluten-free by using a gluten-free pie crust or a homemade gluten-free crust. The filling is naturally gluten-free.

6. How do I know when the filling is thick enough?

The filling should coat the back of a spoon and hold its shape when you run your finger through it. It should have a custard-like consistency.

7. Can I freeze the pie?

Yes, you can freeze Butterscotch Pie. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Let it thaw in the fridge before serving.

8. Can I make this pie with regular sugar instead of brown sugar?

Brown sugar is what gives Butterscotch Pie its signature rich flavor. If you must, you can use white sugar, but the flavor will be different.

9. How do I prevent the filling from curdling?

To prevent curdling, make sure to temper the egg yolks by slowly adding a little of the hot milk mixture to them before combining them back into the saucepan. This helps prevent the eggs from cooking too quickly.

10. Can I use a different type of milk?

You can use a different milk like 2% milk or even a dairy-free milk like almond milk, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor may be slightly different.

Conclusion

Butterscotch Pie is the ultimate indulgence, offering a rich and creamy filling with just the right amount of sweetness. Its smooth texture, buttery crust, and delightful flavor will have you coming back for more. Whether it’s for a family gathering, holiday dessert, or just because, this Southern classic is sure to impress and become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Enjoy a slice of this velvety pie and savor every sweet, buttery bite!

Butterscotch Pie

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• Author: Julia
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Butterscotch Pie is a rich, creamy Southern classic with a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, caramel-like filling. Topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate or butterscotch chips, this indulgent dessert is the perfect balance of sweet and buttery. It’s a comforting treat for any occasion, sure to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

For the Butterscotch Filling:
½ cup unsalted butter

1 cup brown sugar, packed

3 large egg yolks

¼ cup cornstarch

2 cups whole milk

¼ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

For the Pie Crust:

1. Prepare the Pie Crust: Start by preparing your favorite pie crust. Use a store-bought or homemade crust, bake according to package or recipe instructions, and allow it to cool completely.

For the Butterscotch Filling:

1. Make the Butterscotch Filling:

   • In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and stir until dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.

   • Gradually add the whole milk to the brown sugar mixture, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer while whisking constantly.

   • Slowly pour about ½ cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks to temper them, whisking constantly. Then, slowly add the egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring constantly.

   • Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture thickens into a custard-like consistency. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Fill the Pie:

1. Assemble the Pie: Pour the butterscotch filling into the cooled pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Let the pie cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or until the filling is set.

Serve:

1. Top and Serve: Once the pie is chilled and set, top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of shaved chocolate or butterscotch chips, and enjoy!

Notes

Topping Ideas: Add crushed toffee bits, cinnamon, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flavor.

Nutty Version: Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts make a great topping or addition to the filling.

Make It Chocolate: Add a layer of melted chocolate at the bottom of the pie crust for a chocolate-butterscotch combination.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern