Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

If you’ve ever dreamed of indulging in a sweet, creamy slice of heaven, Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is the answer. This Southern classic is everything you love about butterscotch – rich, smooth, and perfectly sweet – all wrapped up in a buttery pie crust. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug, making it the perfect treat for any occasion, from family dinners to holiday feasts. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite of Dolly herself!

Why You’ll Love Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients; it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, bringing a homemade dessert to a gathering, or treating yourself to something sweet, this pie will make you feel like a star in your own kitchen. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: It’s a great dessert for any occasion – serve it after a casual dinner, at a holiday gathering, or even as a sweet treat for yourself on a cozy evening.

Budget-Friendly: With simple ingredients you probably already have at home, this pie is affordable but tastes like it came from a high-end bakery.

Quick and Easy: The steps are straightforward, and while it’s rich and decadent, it’s surprisingly easy to pull off. You’ll look like a pro without spending hours in the kitchen!

Customizable: Add a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of chopped nuts, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flair.

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or guests, this pie is always a hit. It’s a dessert that everyone can enjoy, from kids to adults.

Ingredients

Here’s the magic of Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie – the ingredients are simple, but they come together to create something extraordinary. Let’s break it down:

Pie Crust: A classic, buttery pie crust that forms the perfect base for this rich filling. You can use store-bought or homemade – either way, it’s delicious.

Butter: The star of the show! Butter adds richness and depth of flavor to the filling, making it extra smooth and creamy.

Brown Sugar: This gives the pie its signature butterscotch flavor – deep, caramel-like sweetness that balances the richness of the filling.

Cornstarch: Helps thicken the filling, giving it that perfect pie texture.

Egg Yolks: The yolks give the filling a velvety richness and help it set just right.

Milk: Adds creaminess to the filling, making it smooth and luscious.

Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor and adds a hint of warmth.

Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and elevates all the flavors.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this decadent, creamy pie:

Prepare the Pie Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using a store-bought crust, place it in a pie dish and bake it according to the package instructions. If you’re making a homemade crust, roll it out and bake it until golden and crisp. Let it cool completely.

Make the Butterscotch Filling: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly bubbly.

Add the Milk: Slowly pour in the milk while stirring constantly, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue cooking the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and begins to bubble. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Temper the Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add a small amount of the hot mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Gradually whisk the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the butterscotch filling. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens even more.

Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. The filling should be thick, smooth, and creamy.

Fill the Pie Crust: Pour the butterscotch filling into the cooled pie crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top and ensure it’s evenly distributed.

Chill the Pie: Allow the pie to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow it to set completely.

Finishing Touches: Once the pie has chilled, you can top it with whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.

Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve the pie chilled. Each bite is a perfect balance of rich, creamy, and sweet goodness. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 320

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes + 4 hours chill time

How to Serve Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

This pie is best served chilled, and it pairs wonderfully with:

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
• A cup of hot coffee or tea to complement the richness of the pie.
• A drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra sweet touch.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Don’t Rush the Cooling Time: Let the pie set in the fridge for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow the filling to firm up and set properly.
• Make It Ahead: This pie is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it the day before and refrigerate it, making it an ideal dessert for busy holidays or dinner parties.
• Use Real Butter: For the best flavor, be sure to use real butter in this recipe. It makes a big difference in the richness of the filling.

FAQ’s

1. Can I make this pie with a graham cracker crust?
   Yes, a graham cracker crust would work wonderfully for this pie, adding a bit of crunch and a different flavor.
2. Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?
   Yes, you can substitute light brown sugar, but dark brown sugar gives the pie a deeper, richer flavor that’s more characteristic of butterscotch.
3. Can I make the filling without egg yolks?
   While the egg yolks help create a rich and smooth texture, you can substitute with cornstarch or use a vegan egg replacer if needed.
4. How long will this pie last in the fridge?
   The pie will last for up to 3 days in the fridge, as long as it’s covered properly to prevent it from drying out.
5. Can I freeze this pie?
   Yes, you can freeze the pie before adding the whipped cream or toppings. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Let it thaw in the fridge before serving.
6. What can I use instead of vanilla extract?
   You can use maple extract or almond extract for a different twist on the flavor.
7. Can I double the recipe?
   Absolutely! If you’re serving a crowd, you can double the recipe and use a larger pie dish or make two pies.
8. How do I get a smooth filling?
   Be sure to whisk constantly while cooking the filling, and temper the eggs slowly to avoid curdling.
9. Can I make this pie without a crust?
   Yes, you can make a crustless butterscotch pie. Just pour the filling into a greased pie dish and bake it like a custard.
10. Can I add a layer of chocolate to the pie?
    For a fun twist, you can add a thin layer of melted chocolate over the cooled crust before adding the butterscotch filling. It will give your pie a delicious chocolate-butterscotch combo!

Conclusion

Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is the ultimate indulgence – smooth, creamy, and sweet, with just the right amount of richness. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it solo, this pie is a dessert that’s sure to impress. With its perfect balance of flavors and easy-to-follow steps, it’s no wonder this classic pie is a favorite. So go ahead, treat yourself to a slice (or two) – you deserve it!

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