Betty Crocker’s Butterscotch Pie is a delightful, nostalgic dessert that brings a touch of vintage charm to your table. With a smooth, velvety butterscotch filling nestled in a flaky pie crust and topped with a cloud of whipped cream or meringue, this pie is sure to become a family favorite. The rich, buttery flavor of butterscotch makes this pie ideal for holidays, family gatherings, or just a special treat on any occasion.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
- 1 9-inch pre-baked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
For the Butterscotch Filling
- 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping
- 1 cup heavy cream (chilled)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- If you haven’t already, bake your pie crust according to package or recipe instructions. Let it cool completely before adding the filling.
Step 2: Make the Butterscotch Filling
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture starts to thicken and comes to a gentle boil (about 5-7 minutes).
- Reduce the heat to low and cook for an additional 2 minutes, continuing to stir.
- In a small bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Gradually whisk in about 1/2 cup of the hot butterscotch mixture to temper the eggs, then return the egg mixture to the saucepan.
- 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.
Step 3: Fill the Pie Crust
- Pour the hot butterscotch filling into the cooled pie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Allow the pie to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream Topping
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract using an electric mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream over the chilled butterscotch pie, or pipe it on for a decorative finish.
Step 5: Serve
- Slice the pie and serve chilled. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra brown sugar or butterscotch chips if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Tempering the Eggs: Make sure to temper the egg yolks by slowly adding some of the hot mixture to the yolks before adding them back to the saucepan. This prevents the eggs from scrambling.
- Butterscotch Flavor: For a deeper butterscotch flavor, use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.
- Pie Crust: A graham cracker crust also works well if you prefer a different texture and flavor for the base.
Variations
Butterscotch Meringue Pie
- Instead of whipped cream, top the pie with a meringue made from the leftover egg whites. Beat the whites with 1/4 cup sugar until stiff peaks form, then spread over the pie and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
Salted Butterscotch Pie
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt to the butterscotch filling for a salted caramel flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the brown sugar.
Chocolate Drizzled Butterscotch Pie
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the whipped cream topping for an extra indulgent touch that complements the butterscotch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the pie up to 2 days ahead. Store it in the refrigerator, covered, and add the whipped cream topping just before serving for best results.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The whipped cream may start to soften, but the pie will still taste delicious.
Can I Use Evaporated Milk Instead of Whole Milk?
Yes, you can substitute evaporated milk for whole milk for a richer filling. Just make sure to use the same quantity.
Betty Crocker’s Butterscotch Pie is a timeless dessert that’s rich, creamy, and perfect for any occasion. The smooth butterscotch filling paired with a flaky crust and fluffy whipped cream makes this pie a true crowd-pleaser. Customize it with different toppings to make it your own, and enjoy the nostalgic flavors of this classic treat.
Happy baking, and enjoy every bite of this delightful butterscotch pie!
