Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is a decadent Southern dessert that brings rich, caramelized flavor to your table with simple, wholesome ingredients. With its velvety filling and irresistible sweetness, this classic pie is a timeless treat, perfect for holidays or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Southern Flavor: This pie delivers the nostalgic charm of Southern kitchens with every bite.

• Rich and Creamy Texture: The smooth butterscotch filling is luscious and satisfying.

• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, it’s an easy dessert that doesn’t require specialty items.

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, this pie is as convenient as it is delicious.

• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for family dinners, holiday celebrations, or weekend baking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ½ cup unsalted butter

• 1 cup brown sugar, packed

• 3 large egg yolks

• ¼ cup cornstarch

• 2 cups whole milk

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9-inch pie dish.

Prepare the Butterscotch Filling:

2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.

3. Add the brown sugar and stir until well combined and smooth.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and cornstarch until the mixture is smooth.

5. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.

6. Slowly add the milk mixture to the saucepan with the butter and sugar, stirring constantly.

7. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring regularly until it thickens and begins to bubble.

8. Remove from heat and stir in the salt and vanilla extract.

Bake the Pie:

9. Pour the warm butterscotch filling into the prepared pie dish.

10. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the filling is set.

11. Let the pie cool completely before serving.

Serve:

12. Slice and serve the pie chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Calories: Approximately 300 kcal per serving

Variations

• Add a Meringue Topping: Use the leftover egg whites to make a fluffy meringue topping and bake until lightly browned.

• Nutty Twist: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling before baking for added texture.

• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled pie for a gourmet touch.

• Whipped Cream Finish: Top with freshly whipped cream to balance the sweetness with a light, airy finish.

• Graham Cracker Crust: Substitute a traditional crust with a graham cracker base for a crunchier variation.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the filling may change after thawing.

• Reheating: Best served chilled or at room temperature. Avoid reheating, as it may affect the consistency of the filling.

FAQs

Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?

Yes, light brown sugar will work, but the flavor will be slightly less intense than with dark brown sugar.

Do I need to use a pre-baked pie crust?

This recipe does not specify a crust, but you may pour the filling into a baked crust if desired for added structure.

What type of milk works best?

Whole milk is preferred for its richness, but 2% can also be used. Avoid skim milk, as it may result in a thinner filling.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, this pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

How do I know when the filling is set?

The filling should jiggle slightly but hold together. It will continue to set as it cools.

Can I make this pie without eggs?

Eggs are essential for the texture and structure of the filling in this traditional recipe. An egg-free version would require significant adjustments.

Is there a substitute for cornstarch?

You can substitute with an equal amount of arrowroot powder or use all-purpose flour, though the texture may vary.

What kind of crust pairs best with this filling?

A classic flaky pastry crust works beautifully, but a graham cracker or cookie crust also complements the butterscotch flavor.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While you can, butter is recommended for the best flavor and consistency in the filling.

How long should I chill the pie before serving?

Allow at least 2 hours for proper chilling to ensure the filling is fully set and slices cleanly.

Conclusion

Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is a rich and creamy dessert that captures the essence of Southern baking. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s an ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether served at a festive gathering or as a comforting treat at home, this pie is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

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• Author: Olivia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is a nostalgic Southern dessert with rich, creamy filling and deep caramel flavor from brown sugar and butter. This easy homemade butterscotch pie recipe features a silky custard and a classic taste that’s perfect for holidays, Sunday dinners, or any special occasion. A must-try for fans of old-fashioned desserts and butterscotch lovers alike!

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Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter

• 1 cup brown sugar, packed

• 3 large egg yolks

• 1/4 cup cornstarch

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat Oven:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9-inch pie dish.

Make the Filling:
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
3. Stir in brown sugar until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk.
5. Slowly pour milk mixture into saucepan, stirring constantly.
6. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until thickened and bubbly.
7. Remove from heat. Stir in salt and vanilla.

Bake the Pie:
8. Pour filling into the prepared pie dish.
9. Bake for 10–12 minutes until set.
10. Cool completely before slicing.

Serve:
11. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
12. Enjoy a slice of this creamy Southern favorite!

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Notes

• For a twist, top with whipped cream or a sprinkle of toffee bits.

• A graham cracker crust or pastry crust both work beautifully.

• Use dark brown sugar for a deeper butterscotch flavor.