Why You’ll Love Butterscotch Pie Recipe

If you’re a fan of sweet, indulgent desserts, Butterscotch Pie is a must-try! The combination of rich brown sugar, smooth custard filling, and buttery crust creates an unforgettable dessert. The filling has a perfect balance of sweetness with a hint of salt, while the lightly browned top adds a delightful touch of flavor. Plus, it’s easy to make, and you can even prepare it ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients

1 cup packed light brown sugar
4 tablespoons cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups milk
2 egg yolks, beaten
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (9 inch) pie crust, baked

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

Directions

Prepare the Filling: In the top of a double boiler, combine the light brown sugar, cornstarch, salt, and milk. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it begins to thicken (about 20 minutes).
Add the Egg Yolks: Once the mixture has thickened, whisk in the beaten egg yolks. Continue to cook and stir the mixture until it becomes even thicker, resembling a custard consistency.
Finish the Filling: Remove the mixture from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Assemble the Pie: Pour the thickened filling into the prepared, baked pie crust, spreading it evenly.
Bake the Pie: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the pie for about 5 minutes, or until the top begins to brown slightly.
Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until fully set (about 2-3 hours). Serve chilled and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes, plus cooling time

Variations

Topping Ideas: Top the pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted pecans for added texture and flavor.
Chocolate Version: For a chocolate twist, mix in some cocoa powder to the butterscotch filling or top the pie with a layer of chocolate ganache before baking.
Crust Alternatives: If you prefer a graham cracker or chocolate cookie crust, feel free to swap out the traditional pie crust for a different base.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or foil. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Reheating: This pie is best served chilled, so there’s no need to reheat it. If you prefer it slightly warmed, you can gently heat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds.

FAQs

Can I make Butterscotch Pie without a double boiler?

Yes! If you don’t have a double boiler, you can create a makeshift one by placing a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Just make sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water.

How can I tell when the filling has thickened enough?

The filling will thicken to a custard-like consistency after about 20 minutes of cooking. It should coat the back of a spoon and leave a trail when you run your finger through it.

Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

Yes, you can use a store-bought pie crust for convenience, but homemade crust will give you a more flaky and buttery texture.

Can I freeze Butterscotch Pie?

While it’s possible to freeze Butterscotch Pie, it’s not ideal. The filling may change in texture once frozen and thawed. It’s best to enjoy this pie fresh or within a few days of making it.

What’s the best way to make the pie filling smooth?

Make sure to whisk the mixture constantly as it cooks to prevent lumps. If any lumps form, you can strain the filling through a fine-mesh sieve to smooth it out.

Can I add nuts to the filling?

Yes! Adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the filling gives it an extra crunch and flavor contrast. Just fold them in after removing the filling from heat.

How can I make the top of the pie more golden?

To achieve a golden-brown top, bake the pie for a few extra minutes, keeping an eye on it to prevent over-browning. You can also use a kitchen torch for a more controlled browning.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, Butterscotch Pie is perfect for making ahead. Simply refrigerate the pie after it’s cooled to room temperature and set it for a few hours or overnight.

What’s the best way to serve Butterscotch Pie?

Serve the pie chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.

Can I make this pie without eggs?

If you need an egg-free version, you can try using an egg substitute like a flax egg or commercial egg replacer. The texture might vary slightly but should still be delicious.

Conclusion

Butterscotch Pie is a timeless dessert that combines the irresistible flavors of brown sugar, butter, and vanilla into a creamy, decadent filling. The baked top adds a delightful golden touch, making it as beautiful as it is delicious. Perfect for special occasions or an indulgent treat, this pie will surely win over your family and friends. Try it out, and enjoy every smooth, sweet bite!

Butterscotch Pie

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This classic Butterscotch Pie is creamy, rich, and perfectly sweet, featuring a silky brown sugar filling in a flaky pie crust. It’s the ultimate comfort dessert, great for any occasion.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 1 pie
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1 cup packed light brown sugar
4 tablespoons cornstarch
½ teaspoon salt
2 cups milk
2 egg yolks, beaten
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (9-inch) pie crust, baked

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Instructions

In the top of a double boiler, combine brown sugar, cornstarch, salt, and milk. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture starts to thicken, about 20 minutes.
Whisk in the beaten egg yolks and continue to cook and stir until the filling is thickened.
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Once the filling is thick, remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.
Pour the thickened filling into the prepared pie crust.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes or until the top begins to brown.
Let the pie cool before serving.

Notes

Be sure to stir constantly to prevent lumps in the filling.
For added flavor, you can top with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon.