Introduction
Indulge in the rich, caramel-like flavor of a classic Butterscotch Pie, a dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious. This timeless treat is made from a velvety butterscotch filling nestled in a flaky pie crust, topped with whipped cream or meringue for an extra touch of sweetness. Perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or just because, this pie will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust
- Whipped cream or meringue for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the light brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Make sure the mixture is free of lumps for a smooth filling.
Add Milk and Cook:
Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is well combined. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil. This should take about 7-10 minutes.
Step 2: Temper the Egg Yolks
Beat the Egg Yolks:
In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks.
Temper the Yolks:
To avoid scrambling the eggs, slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the beaten egg yolks while whisking constantly. Once combined, pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the hot milk mixture.
Cook Until Thickened:
Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it becomes thick and pudding-like. This should take another 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add Butter and Vanilla
Remove from Heat:
Take the saucepan off the heat and stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract. Mix until the butter is fully melted and the filling is smooth and glossy.
Step 4: Fill the Pie Crust
Pour Filling into Crust:
Pour the butterscotch filling into the pre-baked pie crust, spreading it evenly.
Cool and Set:
Allow the pie to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
Step 5: Add Topping
Whipped Cream or Meringue:
Before serving, top the pie with freshly whipped cream or a layer of meringue, depending on your preference. For meringue, make sure to bake it until the peaks are golden.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Slice and Serve:
Once the pie is set and topped, slice it into generous portions and enjoy the creamy, rich flavor of homemade butterscotch pie.
Tips for the Perfect Butterscotch Pie
- Avoid Lumps: To prevent lumps in your filling, make sure to whisk the sugar and cornstarch thoroughly before adding the milk.
- Temper Carefully: Tempering the egg yolks is crucial. If you add the hot mixture too quickly, you risk curdling the eggs.
- Chill Properly: Allowing the pie to chill fully ensures that the filling sets properly. Rushing this step might result in a runny filling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar?
Yes, you can substitute dark brown sugar, but it will result in a deeper, more intense molasses flavor. If you prefer a more traditional butterscotch taste, stick with light brown sugar.
How do I prevent a soggy pie crust?
To avoid a soggy crust, make sure your pie crust is fully pre-baked before adding the filling. You can also brush the crust with a thin layer of beaten egg white before baking to create a barrier that helps prevent moisture from seeping in.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! Butterscotch pie can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and add the whipped cream or meringue topping just before serving.
What can I do if my filling is too runny?
If your filling is too runny, it might not have cooked long enough to thicken properly. In this case, you can return it to the heat and cook it a bit longer until it reaches the desired consistency. Be sure to stir continuously to avoid burning.
Can I freeze butterscotch pie?
While you can freeze the pie, it’s not recommended as the texture of the filling may change once thawed. If you do choose to freeze it, do so without the whipped cream or meringue topping, and allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Conclusion
Butterscotch Pie is a delightful dessert that brings together the rich, buttery flavors of butterscotch with the smooth, creamy texture of custard. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday dinner, a family gathering, or just treating yourself, this pie is sure to impress. Follow this recipe and tips for a pie that’s not only delicious but also a showstopper on any dessert table.