If you’re looking for a rich, creamy, and utterly delicious dessert, Butterscotch Pie is a timeless treat that’s sure to impress. With its silky butterscotch filling nestled in a flaky pie crust and topped with whipped cream, this dessert is perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or any special occasion.
In this guide, you’ll find all the details you need to make the perfect Butterscotch Pie, including ingredients, instructions, preparation time, tips, and calorie information.
Ingredients
For the Butterscotch Filling:
- Packed light brown sugar: 1 cup
- Cornstarch: 4 tablespoons
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Milk: 2 cups (whole milk recommended for richness)
- Egg yolks: 3 large, lightly beaten
- Unsalted butter: 3 tablespoons
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
For the Pie Crust:
- Pre-baked pie crust (store-bought or homemade): 1 (9-inch)
For the Topping:
- Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade): 1 cup
- Optional garnish: A sprinkle of brown sugar or caramel drizzle
Instructions
1: Prepare the Pie Crust
If using a homemade crust, roll out the dough into a 9-inch pie pan and bake according to your recipe instructions. Allow it to cool completely.
If using a store-bought crust, follow the package instructions for pre-baking.
2: Make the Butterscotch Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and begins to bubble (about 5-7 minutes).
Remove from heat and slowly whisk a small amount of the hot mixture into the beaten egg yolks to temper them. Then, pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan.
Return the saucepan to the heat and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the filling is thick and smooth.
Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
3: Assemble the Pie
Pour the warm butterscotch filling into the pre-baked pie crust, spreading it evenly.
Allow the pie to cool to room temperature, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
4: Add the Whipped Topping
Before serving, top the chilled pie with whipped cream. Use a piping bag for a decorative touch or spread it evenly with a spatula.
Garnish with a sprinkle of brown sugar or a drizzle of caramel for extra flair.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Tips for the Best Butterscotch Pie
Use Whole Milk: Whole milk adds richness and creaminess to the filling. For an even more indulgent pie, substitute a portion of the milk with heavy cream.
Temper the Eggs Properly: Whisking a small amount of hot mixture into the egg yolks prevents them from scrambling when added to the filling.
Choose the Right Crust: A flaky, buttery crust complements the creamy filling perfectly.
Chill Completely: Letting the pie set in the refrigerator ensures clean slices and the perfect texture.
Homemade Whipped Cream: Whip heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla for a homemade topping that tastes better than store-bought.
Calories Per Serving
This decadent dessert is rich, so enjoy it in moderation. Here’s an approximate calorie count per slice (1 slice out of 8):
Filling: ~220 calories
Pie crust: ~150 calories
Whipped cream: ~70 calories
Total per slice (approximate): ~440 calories.
For a lighter version, use a reduced-fat crust and skip or reduce the whipped cream.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich and Creamy Flavor: The butterscotch filling is velvety smooth with a deep caramelized sweetness.
Elegant Presentation: Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or as a show-stopping dessert for any gathering.
Customizable: Add toppings like caramel drizzle, chocolate shavings, or crushed nuts for variety.
Classic Appeal: Butterscotch Pie is a nostalgic dessert that never goes out of style.
Delicious Variations
Chocolate Butterscotch Pie: Add a layer of melted chocolate or chocolate ganache between the crust and the filling.
Salted Butterscotch Pie: Sprinkle a touch of flaky sea salt over the whipped cream for a modern twist.
Nutty Butterscotch Pie: Add a layer of chopped pecans or walnuts at the bottom of the crust for a crunchy surprise.
Conclusion
The Butterscotch Pie is a classic dessert that brings comfort and joy with every bite. Its silky filling, flaky crust, and creamy topping make it a standout treat for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to making pies, this recipe is simple to follow and guarantees delicious results.