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Velvety Butterscotch Pie Recipe

Velvety Butterscotch Pie Recipe


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4.7 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 7 1x

Description

Homemade butterscotch pie delivers rich, caramel-like flavors from a traditional Southern dessert. Buttery graham cracker crust and silky custard create a classic comfort treat you’ll savor with each delightful bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pre-baked 9-inch (23 cm) pie crust
  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
  • 1 cup (200 g) packed dark brown sugar
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 4 large egg whites
  • ¼ cup (30 g) cornstarch
  • ½ tsp (2.5 ml) salt
  • 1 tbsp (15 g) unsalted butter
  • 2 tsps (10 ml) pure vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp (1.25 ml) cream of tartar

Instructions

  1. Butterscotch Base Preparation: Whisk milk, brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and bubbles intensely.
  2. Egg Integration: Temper hot mixture into beaten egg yolks, then return to saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly to create a smooth, creamy consistency.
  3. Flavor Enhancement: Remove from heat and incorporate butter and vanilla extract, blending until the filling achieves a luxurious, uniform texture.
  4. Pie Shell Filling: Pour the velvety butterscotch mixture into a pre-baked pie shell, spreading evenly to create a glossy surface.
  5. Meringue Creation: Whip egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form, then gradually add granulated sugar, beating until stiff, glossy peaks develop.
  6. Meringue Finishing: Fold in vanilla extract and spread the meringue elegantly over the butterscotch filling, ensuring complete coverage that connects with the crust edges.
  7. Baking and Cooling: Bake in a preheated oven until the meringue turns golden and lightly toasted, then allow the pie to cool completely, letting flavors meld and settle before serving.

Notes

  • Prevent Curdling: Temper egg yolks slowly by adding hot liquid gradually to avoid scrambling, which ensures a smooth butterscotch base.
  • Control Heat Sensitivity: Use low, consistent heat when cooking custard and meringue to prevent burning or separating ingredients.
  • Achieve Meringue Perfection: Ensure egg whites are room temperature and use clean, grease-free equipment for maximum volume and stability.
  • Prevent Weeping Meringue: Spread meringue while filling is still warm and seal edges completely with crust to minimize moisture separation.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 7
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 34 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 48 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg