Butterscotch Pie is a rich, creamy, and comforting dessert that brings together the irresistible flavors of brown sugar, butter, and vanilla in a luscious, smooth filling. This pie is perfect for anyone who loves sweet, decadent treats and is a fantastic choice for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or just because you’re craving something sweet. The combination of the velvety butterscotch filling and the flaky pie crust is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

The best part about this pie is that it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a pie that tastes like it took hours of effort, even though the process is straightforward. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is a winner. It also offers the opportunity to customize with a dollop of whipped cream on top or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added texture and flavor.

This pie also stores well, so you can make it ahead of time and enjoy it over a couple of days. With its smooth and sweet filling, topped with a fluffy whipped cream finish, this butterscotch pie will undoubtedly become a favorite dessert in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Butterscotch Pie is a timeless dessert that offers a unique twist on traditional pies. The filling is rich yet not overwhelming, providing just the right amount of sweetness to balance the buttery flavor. The pie is easy to prepare, and the result is a smooth, creamy filling in a buttery, flaky crust that melts in your mouth. This dessert can be served on special occasions or as a weeknight treat, making it incredibly versatile.

What truly makes this pie stand out is its homemade filling. Unlike store-bought puddings, this butterscotch pie has a depth of flavor from the brown sugar and vanilla, with a smooth and luxurious texture. Topped with whipped cream, this pie is the perfect indulgence for those who appreciate a creamy, comforting dessert.

Ingredients

1 9-inch baked pie crust
Brown sugar
Cornstarch
Salt
Milk
Egg yolks
Butter
Vanilla extract
Whipped cream for topping

Variations

While this butterscotch pie is delicious as is, you can easily make some variations to cater to your taste:

Add nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the pie for a bit of crunch and additional flavor.
Chocolate butterscotch pie: Add some melted chocolate to the filling for a chocolate butterscotch combination.
Coconut: Add shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical twist.
Spices: You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a spiced version.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually stir in the milk, and cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens and begins to bubble.

Step 2: Cook and Stir

Continue to cook and stir for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring that the mixture becomes thick and smooth.

Step 3: Temper the Egg Yolks

In a separate small bowl, beat the egg yolks. Gradually stir about 1 cup of the hot butterscotch mixture into the egg yolks to temper them.

Step 4: Combine the Mixtures

Slowly stir the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan, and cook the entire mixture over medium heat for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the filling is smooth and thickened.

Step 5: Add Butter and Vanilla

Remove the saucepan from the heat, and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. Continue stirring until the butter is fully melted and incorporated into the filling.

Step 6: Pour into Crust

Pour the finished butterscotch filling into the prepared baked pie crust, smoothing it out with a spatula to ensure an even layer.

Step 7: Cool and Chill

Allow the pie to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the filling to fully set.

Step 8: Top with Whipped Cream

Before serving, top the pie with a generous amount of whipped cream and garnish with additional toasted nuts, if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Tempering the egg yolks: Be sure to gradually add the hot mixture to the egg yolks to avoid cooking the eggs too quickly, which can result in curdling.
Consistency: If the filling is too thick, you can add a little more milk to adjust the texture. Just make sure to stir it well after adding the milk.
Whipped cream: Make your own whipped cream for the topping to add a fresh, homemade touch.
Crust options: If you’re short on time, a pre-made pie crust works perfectly. Alternatively, you can use a graham cracker crust for a different flavor base.

How to Serve

Serve this butterscotch pie chilled with a dollop of whipped cream on top. It’s perfect as a standalone dessert, but you can also pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting end to any meal. You can garnish the pie with extra whipped cream, toasted nuts, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This butterscotch pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep the pie fresh.

Freezing

While freezing this pie is possible, it may alter the texture of the whipped cream topping. If you plan to freeze it, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Allow the pie to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

This pie is best served cold, so it doesn’t require reheating. Just take it out of the refrigerator and allow it to sit for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

Yes, a store-bought pie crust can be used in place of a homemade one. Just bake it according to the package instructions before adding the filling.

2. Can I use half-and-half instead of milk?

Yes, half-and-half can be used for a richer, creamier filling. Just be sure to adjust the consistency with more cornstarch if necessary.

3. Can I use egg substitutes?

Yes, you can use an egg substitute like a flax egg or cornstarch slurry to replace the egg yolks in the filling, though the texture may slightly differ.

4. Can I make this pie in advance?

Yes, this pie is perfect for making in advance. Allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to fully set.

5. How can I prevent the filling from curdling?

To prevent curdling, be sure to temper the egg yolks by slowly adding the hot mixture to them. Stir constantly to ensure smoothness.

6. Can I freeze this pie?

Yes, you can freeze this pie, but the whipped cream topping may lose its texture. Ensure the pie is tightly wrapped before freezing.

7. Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?

Yes, light brown sugar can be substituted for dark brown sugar if that’s what you have on hand. The flavor may be slightly less robust.

8. How long does this pie last?

This pie will last for up to 3-4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.

9. Can I add caramel to the filling?

Yes, you can add a bit of caramel sauce to the filling for a richer flavor.

10. How can I make this pie dairy-free?

To make this pie dairy-free, you can substitute the milk and butter with non-dairy alternatives such as almond milk and coconut oil.

Conclusion

Butterscotch Pie is a simple yet indulgent dessert that offers a sweet, smooth filling in a flaky pie crust. It’s the perfect treat for any occasion, from family dinners to holiday gatherings. With its easy preparation, rich flavor, and customizable options, this pie is sure to impress your guests and become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Whether you serve it with whipped cream, caramel, or toasted nuts, this butterscotch pie will delight with every bite.