Butterscotch Pie

Butterscotch pie is a classic American dessert that combines the rich, buttery flavor of butterscotch with a creamy filling and a flaky crust, making it an irresistible treat for dessert lovers of all ages. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or just because, this pie is sure to impress family and friends alike. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for making the perfect butterscotch pie from scratch.

What is Butterscotch Pie?

Butterscotch pie is a traditional American dessert with roots in the mid-20th century, known for its velvety, sweet filling infused with the deep, warm flavor of butterscotch. It’s often topped with whipped cream or a simple sprinkle of sea salt to balance its sweetness. The pie can be made with a homemade or pre-made crust, and while it’s a rich dessert, its taste is perfectly balanced with the buttery and caramelized flavors that make butterscotch so unique.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crust:

• 1 pre-made pie crust or homemade pie dough (recipe below)

For the Butterscotch Filling:

• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons light corn syrup or maple syrup
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups whole milk
• 3 large egg yolks (save the whites for meringue or another use)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Optional: Whipped cream or meringue for topping

For the Homemade Pie Dough (if preferred):

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup ice water (or as needed)

Step-by-Step Instructions

this recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough holds together but isn’t sticky.
2. Chill: Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before rolling out.
3. Roll Out: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Press it gently into the pan, trim any excess dough, and crimp the edges.
4. Pre-Bake: Line the crust with parchment paper and add pie weights or dried beans. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes, remove the weights, and bake for another 5 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool.

Step 2: Make the Butterscotch Filling

1. Cook the Butterscotch: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and corn syrup, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
2. Add Flour and Milk: Sprinkle the flour over the butterscotch mixture and whisk to combine. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Temper the Egg Yolks: In a small bowl, beat the egg yolks. Slowly whisk in a little bit of the hot butterscotch mixture to temper the yolks, then gradually add the yolk mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly.
4. Finish the Filling: Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the filling thickens further. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Cool and Pour: Pour the filling into the cooled pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Let it cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.

Step 3: Top and Serve

• Add Toppings: Once chilled, top the pie with whipped cream or a light meringue for an added touch of sweetness.
• Serve: Slice and enjoy your homemade butterscotch pie!

Tips for the Best Butterscotch Pie

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, use real butter and high-quality brown sugar.
2. Keep the Filling Smooth: Be patient while stirring the filling to avoid lumps, and don’t rush the thickening process.
3. Make Ahead: This pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until serving time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Butterscotch pie is a dessert that feels both nostalgic and sophisticated. The combination of rich butterscotch, creamy filling, and buttery crust creates a flavor profile that’s hard to beat. Perfect for a holiday meal, Sunday supper, or as a special treat for yourself, this pie is sure to become a family favorite.

Serving and Storage Tips for Butterscotch Pie

To make the most of your butterscotch pie, it’s important to know how to serve and store it properly. Here are some tips to ensure you enjoy every slice and keep it fresh for as long as possible:

Serving Tips:

1. Chill Before Serving: For the best texture and flavor, serve your butterscotch pie chilled. The filling will be more stable and easier to slice when cold.
2. Topping Ideas: Add a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of sea salt on top to complement the sweetness of the pie. You can also add a light meringue for an extra special touch.
3. Pairing Suggestions: Butterscotch pie pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or a glass of cold milk. For an adult twist, try serving it with a glass of dessert wine or a sweet liqueur like butterscotch schnapps.
4. Presentation: For a polished look, use a sharp knife to cut clean slices and wipe the blade between cuts. Garnish with a few extra sprigs of fresh mint or a sprinkle of cinnamon to make it visually appealing.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigerate: Store the pie in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
2. Avoid Freezing: Butterscotch pie is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing can affect the texture of the filling and crust. If you do choose to freeze it, wrap it tightly and store for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
3. Keep the Topping Separate: If you plan to store the pie for a few days, it’s best to keep any toppings (like whipped cream or meringue) separate and add them right before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.
4. Reheating Tips: While this pie is typically served chilled, if you prefer it slightly warm, you can warm it gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can cause the filling to soften too much.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your butterscotch pie at its best and savor its delicious flavors for days to come!

1. Can I use a store-bought pie crust for this recipe? Yes, you can absolutely use a store-bought pie crust to save time. Just make sure to pre-bake it according to the package instructions before adding the butterscotch filling to ensure it stays crisp and holds up well.

2. Can I make the butterscotch filling ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the butterscotch filling ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready, simply pour it into the pre-baked pie crust and proceed with the chilling steps.

3. How can I make the filling thicker if it doesn’t set properly? If your filling doesn’t set as desired, you can cook it a bit longer over low heat, stirring constantly. This will allow the starch to activate and thicken the mixture further. Be sure not to overcook, as it could alter the texture of the pie.

4. Can I freeze butterscotch pie? While butterscotch pie is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to one month if necessary. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and store it in an airtight container. To serve, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature before slicing. Note that freezing may affect the texture of the filling and crust.

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