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

Prepare the Crust:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to come together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Once chilled, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Transfer the dough to the pan, trim any excess, and crimp the edges as desired.
Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
Allow the crust to cool completely.
Make the Butterscotch Filling:

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to boil, about 5-7 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Gradually whisk about ½ cup of the hot butterscotch mixture into the egg yolks to temper them.
Return the egg mixture to the saucepan and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the filling is thick and smooth.
Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Pour the filling into the cooled pie crust and smooth the top.
Prepare the Meringue Topping:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
Spread the meringue over the butterscotch filling, making sure to seal the edges with the crust to prevent shrinking.
Bake the pie for 10-12 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
Allow the pie to 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.