Description
Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is a rich and creamy dessert featuring a luscious homemade butterscotch filling nestled in a flaky, pre-baked pie crust. The pie is topped with whipped cream and crunchy pecans, offering a delightful balance of smooth sweetness and nutty texture. Perfect for those craving a nostalgic, indulgent treat with a southern charm.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pie Crust and Topping
- 1 9-inch pre-baked pie crust
- Whipped cream, to taste (for topping)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Butterscotch Mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the packed brown sugar until the mixture is dissolved and bubbly, creating a smooth butterscotch base.
- Mix Egg Yolks and Cornstarch: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, cornstarch, and salt until the mixture is smooth and uniform, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Combine Milk and Egg Mixture: Gradually add the whole milk to the egg yolk mixture, stirring continuously to blend the ingredients evenly without curdling.
- Incorporate Butter-Sugar Blend: Slowly pour the warm butterscotch butter-sugar mixture into the egg-milk mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs and prevent scrambling.
- Cook the Filling: Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring continuously until thickened, approximately 5 minutes, achieving a silky, pudding-like consistency.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor and aroma of the filling.
- Fill the Pie Crust: Pour the warm butterscotch filling into the pre-baked 9-inch pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface.
- Chill the Pie: Let the pie cool at room temperature for 20 minutes to set slightly, then place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 3 hours to firm up completely.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, top the pie with whipped cream to your liking and sprinkle the chopped pecans over the cream for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Be sure to whisk constantly when adding the butterscotch mixture to the eggs to prevent scrambling.
- Allow the pie to chill adequately for best slicing results and set texture.
- Use a pre-baked pie crust to avoid a soggy bottom and save time.
- For a deeper butterscotch flavor, brown the butter slightly before adding the sugar, but do not burn it.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: butterscotch pie, Dolly Parton pie, homemade pie, creamy pie, southern dessert, whipped cream topping, pecan garnish
