If you’re looking to treat yourself to a dessert that’s both nostalgic and decadent, look no further than Butterscotch Pie. This timeless pie brings together the deep, caramel-like richness of butterscotch with the smooth, creamy texture of custard. It’s a dessert that never goes out of style, often evoking memories of family gatherings and cozy meals. Perfect for any occasion, this pie is a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

Let’s dive into how you can create this delicious masterpiece right in your own kitchen!

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What Makes Butterscotch Pie So Special?

Classic Butterscotch Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and butter gives this pie that signature butterscotch taste we all know and love. It’s sweet, with a hint of caramel, offering a rich depth of flavor.
Smooth and Creamy Texture: The custard-like filling is luxuriously smooth, making each bite melt in your mouth.
Simple Ingredients: You won’t need anything fancy for this pie just pantry staples like sugar, milk, and eggs come together to create something truly special.

Ingredients for Butterscotch Pie

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this creamy, dreamy pie:

For the Filling:

1 cup packed light brown sugar: This is the star ingredient, giving the pie its signature butterscotch flavor.
4 tablespoons cornstarch: Acts as the thickener, helping to give the filling its custard-like consistency.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors, balancing the sweetness of the butterscotch.
2 cups milk: For a creamy base, you can use whole milk for the richest texture.
2 egg yolks, beaten: Adds richness to the custard while also helping to thicken it.
1 tablespoon butter: This is what gives butterscotch that velvety, smooth finish.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth, enhancing the butterscotch flavor even more.

For the Crust:

1 (9-inch) pie crust, baked: You can use store-bought for convenience, or make your own from scratch if you’re feeling adventurous!

Optional Garnish:

Freshly whipped cream
A pinch of sea salt or shaved chocolate for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Butterscotch Filling

To start, you’ll need to create the rich, creamy filling. In the top of a double boiler (or a heatproof bowl over a simmering pot of water), combine 1 cup packed light brown sugar, 4 tablespoons cornstarch, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Slowly whisk in 2 cups of milk. Make sure the mixture is smooth before placing it over medium heat.

As the mixture begins to warm up, stir constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. The goal is to keep stirring for about 20 minutes, or until the mixture starts to thicken into a luscious, creamy consistency. Be patient—it will take a little time, but the result is well worth it!

Step 2: Incorporate the Egg Yolks

Once the filling starts to thicken, it’s time to add the egg yolks. Make sure the yolks are beaten before slowly whisking them into the warm butterscotch mixture. Be sure to stir constantly as you add the yolks to avoid curdling.

After the egg yolks are incorporated, continue cooking the filling over low heat. This will allow the mixture to thicken even further and take on that smooth, custard-like texture that makes butterscotch pie so irresistible. Cook and stir for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

While your filling finishes cooking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is for the final baking step, which will give the pie a beautiful golden finish.

Step 4: Add Butter and Vanilla

Remove the butterscotch mixture from the heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. The butter adds richness and gives the filling its silky texture, while the vanilla enhances the butterscotch flavor, bringing out its warmth and sweetness.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Now that your filling is ready, it’s time to assemble the pie. Pour the warm butterscotch custard into your pre-baked 9-inch pie crust. Use a spatula to smooth the filling evenly across the crust.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the pie in your preheated oven and bake for about 5 minutes, just until the top of the filling begins to develop a slight golden-brown color. Keep an eye on it this step is quick, and you don’t want to overbake it.

Step 7: Let the Pie Cool

Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. The cooling process will help the filling set, giving it the perfect creamy texture when you slice into it. If you prefer, you can chill the pie in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before serving.

Serving Suggestions: Take It to the Next Level

To truly elevate your Butterscotch Pie and make it an unforgettable dessert, try these simple yet delightful serving tips:

Top with Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the rich, smooth filling. It’s like the perfect pairing of flavors and textures.
Sprinkle Sea Salt: If you’re a fan of that sweet-and-salty combination, try sprinkling a small pinch of sea salt on top of the pie. The salt enhances the butterscotch flavor and adds a subtle crunch.
Shaved Chocolate: For a little extra indulgence, garnish the pie with a sprinkling of shaved chocolate. It adds a touch of elegance and a bittersweet note that complements the caramel-like richness of the filling.

Why You’ll Love This Butterscotch Pie

Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The deep, caramel-like notes of butterscotch are offset by the smooth creaminess of the custard. Every bite is rich without being too sweet.
Easy to Make: Don’t let the luxurious taste fool you this pie is simple to make with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
Nostalgic Comfort: There’s something about butterscotch that just feels comforting. It’s a flavor that brings you back to childhood and makes you feel warm and cozy.
Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday dinner, a family gathering, or just a regular Tuesday, this pie is perfect for any occasion.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), here’s how to store your Butterscotch Pie for optimal freshness:

Store in the Refrigerator: Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
Reheat (Optional): Butterscotch pie is delicious served cold or at room temperature. However, if you prefer to serve it warm, simply pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before enjoying.

Final Thoughts

Butterscotch Pie is a classic dessert that never goes out of style. It’s the kind of pie that feels both nostalgic and luxurious, bringing together simple ingredients to create something truly magical. Whether you’re a long-time fan of butterscotch or trying it for the first time, this pie is sure to impress. Its creamy, custard-like filling and rich caramel flavors make it the perfect dessert for any occasion.