No-Bake Butterscotch Pie

If you’re in the mood for a rich, creamy dessert but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this No-Bake Butterscotch Pie is the perfect solution. With a buttery, smooth butterscotch filling, a delicious graham cracker crust, and a whipped topping, it’s an irresistible treat that requires minimal effort and no baking!

Ingredients for No-Bake Butterscotch Pie

For the crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 graham crackers)
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/4 cups whole milk
• 3 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped

For topping:

• Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
• Butterscotch chips (optional, for garnish)

How to Make No-Bake Butterscotch Pie

this recipe

Step 1: Prepare the crust To start, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Stir until the mixture is well combined and crumbly. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to compact the crumbs, ensuring a sturdy crust. Refrigerate the crust for about 30 minutes to set.

Step 2: Make the butterscotch filling In a medium saucepan, whisk together the brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the milk and continue whisking until the mixture is smooth. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and comes to a gentle boil (about 5-7 minutes).

In a small bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the hot butterscotch mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Gradually add the egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly. Bring it to a boil again and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth. Let the filling cool for 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the pie Once the filling has cooled slightly, pour it into the prepared graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. Let the pie cool at room temperature for a few minutes before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill the pie for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the filling to set properly.

Step 4: Top with whipped cream Before serving, top the pie with a generous layer of whipped cream. If desired, garnish with butterscotch chips for an extra touch of sweetness and texture.

Tips for Perfect No-Bake Butterscotch Pie

• Chill the crust: Make sure the graham cracker crust is thoroughly chilled before adding the filling. This helps prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
• Use whole milk for a creamy texture: The richness of whole milk gives the butterscotch filling its creamy consistency. If you use lower-fat milk, the texture may not be as indulgent.
• Whipped topping options: You can use homemade whipped cream or store-bought. Just ensure that it’s fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Storage Tips

This No-Bake Butterscotch Pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for making ahead of time for parties, gatherings, or a delicious weeknight dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No baking required: Perfect for hot summer days when you want a cool dessert without turning on the oven.
• Rich and indulgent: The creamy butterscotch filling is both comforting and luxurious, a treat for any dessert lover.
• Versatile: You can easily customize the pie by adding chocolate chips, crushed toffee bits, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce on top.

Serving and Storage Tips for No-Bake Butterscotch Pie

Serving Tips:

1. Chill before serving: For the best texture and flavor, make sure the pie is thoroughly chilled. Let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow the filling to set perfectly.
2. Slice with care: Use a sharp knife to slice the pie. If the filling is too firm, dip the knife in warm water and wipe it clean between cuts to ensure smooth slices.
3. Garnish with flair: While the pie is delicious on its own, you can elevate it by topping it with freshly whipped cream, crushed toffee bits, butterscotch chips, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for added texture and flavor.
4. Serve with a side of coffee or tea: The rich sweetness of butterscotch pairs wonderfully with the warm, slightly bitter notes of a cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal dessert for after dinner.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration is key: Store the pie in the refrigerator to keep the filling firm and fresh. It should stay good for up to 3 days when properly covered.
2. Cover tightly: To prevent the pie from absorbing any odors in the fridge, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This also helps maintain its texture.
3. Freezing option: If you need to store the pie for a longer period, you can freeze it for up to a month. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
4. Keep the topping separate: If you’re planning to store leftovers, it’s best to store the whipped cream separately. Add the whipped cream just before serving to maintain its light, airy texture.

With these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your No-Bake Butterscotch Pie at its freshest, whether you’re serving it right away or saving it for later!

1. Can I make No-Bake Butterscotch Pie in advance? Yes! In fact, this pie is perfect for making ahead of time. It needs to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to set properly, but it can also be made the day before and stored overnight for a hassle-free dessert the next day.

2. Can I use a different crust for this pie? While the graham cracker crust is a classic choice for No-Bake Butterscotch Pie, you can certainly experiment with other crusts. You could use an Oreo cookie crust, digestive biscuit crust, or even a homemade shortbread crust for a different flavor and texture.

3. Can I substitute the brown sugar with white sugar? It’s best to stick with brown sugar for the authentic butterscotch flavor, as it gives the pie its signature richness. However, if you’re in a pinch, you can substitute white sugar, but the flavor and color of the filling may not be as rich.

4. How can I make this pie dairy-free or vegan? To make the No-Bake Butterscotch Pie dairy-free or vegan, you can substitute the following:

• Milk: Use almond milk, coconut milk, or any other plant-based milk.
• Butter: Use a dairy-free butter alternative or coconut oil.
• Whipped cream: Use a dairy-free whipped topping or make your own with coconut cream.

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