Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is a warm embrace of flavor, reminiscent of Southern comforts and home-cooked nostalgia. This delectable dessert is perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply when you want to treat yourself to something divine. With its rich, creamy butterscotch filling nestled in a buttery crust, it’s no wonder that this pie has become a cherished favorite among fans of the beloved country music icon.

Butterscotch Pie

A creamy butterscotch pie with a buttery crust, perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 25

Total Time 40

Course Dessert

Cuisine American, Southern

Servings 8 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

For the pie crust

1 pie crust 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought) Use a quality store-bought crust for best results.

For the filling

1 cup 1 cup brown sugar Packed brown sugar for richer flavor.
1/4 cup 1/4 cup cornstarch Used to thicken the filling.
1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor.
2 3/4 cups 2 3/4 cups milk Can substitute with almond milk or other non-dairy options.
4 large 4 egg yolks, beaten Ensure to temper them carefully.
2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons butter Adds richness to the filling.
1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract For enhancing flavor.
1 cup 1 cup whipped cream or meringue topping (optional) Optional for decoration.

Instructions

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pie crust according to package instructions until golden and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, whisk together brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly.
Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
Whisk a small amount of the hot mixture into the egg yolks to temper them, then stir the yolks back into the saucepan. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla.
Pour the butterscotch filling into the prepared pie crust.

Topping

If using meringue, beat egg whites with sugar until stiff peaks form and spread over the filling.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the meringue is golden brown.

Serving

Let the pie cool before serving.

Notes

Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature. Pair with vanilla ice cream or fresh fruits for an elevated dessert experience. Leftover pie can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage.

Keyword Butterscotch Pie, dessert, Dolly Parton, Southern Comfort, Sweet Treats

Why you’ll love this dish

There’s something incredibly special about making Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie in your own kitchen. Firstly, it’s quick and simple, requiring just a handful of pantry staples. This makes it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. It’s an excellent option for special occasions or casual weeknight desserts. The nostalgia it invokes takes you straight back to Sunday dinners at grandma’s, where desserts like this stole the show.

“A true Southern delight! Every bite of this pie is a taste of home. The butterscotch flavor is rich and comforting.” – Happy Baker

How this recipe comes together

Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie may look elaborate, but it’s quite straightforward to make. The process involves creating a luscious butterscotch filling and pouring it into an already baked pie crust. You can opt for a homemade crust or a store-bought version, saving you time without sacrificing flavor. Topping it with either whipped cream or a beautiful golden meringue adds an impressive finish—complicated yet easily achievable.

What you’ll need

To whip up this delightful dessert, gather the following ingredients:

1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 3/4 cups milk
4 egg yolks, beaten
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: 1 cup whipped cream or meringue topping

Feel free to experiment with variations by substituting with your favorite nut milk or sweeteners, depending on dietary preferences.

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pie crust according to package instructions until golden and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, whisk together brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly.
Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
Whisk a small amount of the hot mixture into the egg yolks to temper them, then stir the yolks back into the saucepan. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla.
Pour the butterscotch filling into the prepared pie crust.
If using meringue, beat egg whites with sugar until stiff peaks form and spread over the filling. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the meringue is golden brown.
Let the pie cool before serving.

Best ways to enjoy it

Served slightly chilled or at room temperature, Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie shines on its own. However, you could elevate its appeal by pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or serving it alongside fresh seasonal fruits like berries or sliced peaches. If you’re short on time, a dollop of store-bought whipped cream will be the cherry on top!

How to store & freeze

If you find yourself with leftover pie (although that’s rare!), storing it properly is key. Keep it in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and it will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing slices. Just wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to indulge again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.

Helpful cooking tips

Tempering the egg yolks: This step is crucial in preventing the eggs from curdling when mixed into the hot filling. Do it slowly to ensure a smooth custard.
Meringue magic: For the perfect meringue, make sure your mixing bowl is clean and dry, as any grease can prevent the egg whites from whipping up correctly.
Pie crust perfection: If you’re using a store-bought pie crust, opt for a quality brand to complement the rich filling.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to consider:

Chocolate Butterscotch Pie: Mix in cocoa powder for a chocolate twist.
Nutty Butterscotch: Fold in crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
Spiced Up: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can warm up the flavor profile, especially during the fall season.

FAQs

How long does the pie need to cool before serving?
Let the pie cool for at least an hour at room temperature, ensuring it sets properly before slicing.

Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?
Absolutely! Almond milk or other non-dairy milks can be used, but ensure they are unsweetened to maintain the pie’s sweetness level.

What if my meringue weeps?
Weeping meringue can be caused by undercooking or adding moisture. Ensure your meringue is fully cooked and that your pie filling has cooled before applying the topping.

Follow Me for More Recipes
If you enjoyed this butterscotch pie, be sure to follow us for more delightful recipes and culinary inspiration! You can find us on Facebook and Pinterest.