Description

Butterscotch pie is a dessert that evokes memories of simpler times, where the rich, caramel-like flavor of butterscotch was a beloved treat at family gatherings and special occasions. This pie combines the creamy, buttery sweetness of butterscotch with a flaky, homemade crust, creating a dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking to bring a touch of nostalgia to your dinner table or simply want to indulge in something sweet, this butterscotch pie is sure to hit the spot. The smooth, velvety filling and crisp crust make for a perfect balance, ensuring that every bite is a delight.

Ingredients

• For the Crust:
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ¼ cup ice water
• For the Butterscotch Filling:
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups whole milk
• 3 large egg yolks
• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• For the Meringue Topping:
• 3 large egg whites
• ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar

Preparation Method

1. Preheat oven to 375°F or 190°C.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
4. Add ice water gradually until dough forms.
5. Shape dough into a disk, wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
6. Roll out dough for a 9-inch pie pan, transfer, trim, and crimp edges.
7. Line with parchment and fill with weights. Bake for 15 minutes, remove weights, bake for another 10 minutes until golden.
8. Let crust cool completely.
9. In a saucepan, mix brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
10. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
11. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened and boiling, about 5-7 minutes.
12. Reduce heat and cook for 2 more minutes, stirring.
13. Beat egg yolks in a bowl, then temper with hot mixture.
14. Return egg mixture to saucepan and cook for 2 minutes until thick.
15. Stir in butter and vanilla until combined.
16. Pour filling into cooled crust and smooth the top.
17. Preheat oven to 350°F or 175°C.
18. In a clean bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
19. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
20. Spread meringue over filling, sealing edges.
21. Bake for 10-12 minutes until meringue is golden.
22. Let pie cool completely before slicing and serving.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip: Enhance with a Butterscotch Drizzle
For an extra burst of butterscotch flavor, consider making a simple butterscotch sauce to drizzle over each slice before serving. Combine ¼ cup of unsalted butter, ¼ cup of brown sugar, and ¼ cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes syrupy. This sauce adds a rich, decadent touch that complements the pie perfectly.

Conclusion: A Timeless Dessert to Cherish
Butterscotch pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a nostalgic journey to a time when simple, homemade treats were a cherished part of family life. The rich, buttery filling combined with the light, fluffy meringue topping creates a pie that is both indulgent and comforting. Whether you’re making this pie for a special occasion or just to enjoy a sweet treat, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who takes a bite. The added butterscotch drizzle elevates this pie to new levels of decadence, making it a dessert that’s not only delicious but also memorable. Serve this pie with a warm cup of coffee or tea, and enjoy a slice of pure comfort.