Butterscotch Pie in a Bag is a whimsical, no-bake dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for involving kids in the kitchen. With its creamy butterscotch flavor, this pie is made directly in a zip-top bag, allowing for a fun and mess-free experience. The pie filling is poured into a graham cracker crust, and after a bit of chilling, it’s ready to enjoy. Whether it’s for a special family treat or a quick dessert to whip up, this recipe is sure to be a favorite.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 (3.4 oz) box butterscotch instant pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust
- 1/2 cup whipped cream, for garnish (optional)
- Butterscotch chips, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bag: Place the butterscotch pudding mix, cold milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract into a gallon-sized zip-top bag. Seal the bag tightly, ensuring there’s no excess air inside.
- Mix the Ingredients: With the bag sealed, use your hands to knead and mix the ingredients until the pudding is fully blended and begins to thicken. This will take about 3-5 minutes. It’s a great activity for kids to help with and makes the preparation process fun!
- Fill the Pie Crust: Once the pudding mixture has thickened, carefully snip off one corner of the zip-top bag. Pipe the butterscotch mixture into the pre-made graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula if needed.
- Chill: Place the pie in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, top the pie with whipped cream and sprinkle butterscotch chips on top for extra flavor and decoration if desired. Slice and enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Chilling Time: Allowing the pie to chill for at least 2 hours is essential for setting the filling. Overnight chilling works well too if you need to make the dessert ahead of time.
- Zip-Top Bag Tips: Make sure the bag is sealed tightly to prevent leaks. If you’re making this with kids, double-check the seal before they start kneading the mixture.
- Texture: For a thicker consistency, use less milk (about 1 1/4 cups) if you prefer a firmer pie filling.
Variations
- Chocolate Butterscotch Pie: Substitute half of the butterscotch pudding mix with chocolate pudding mix for a delicious chocolate-butterscotch swirl.
- Nutty Butterscotch Pie: Add 1/4 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the pie filling for added texture and flavor.
- Salted Caramel: Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the top of the pie before serving for an extra layer of indulgence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this pie without a zip-top bag?
Yes! You can mix the ingredients in a bowl with a whisk or electric mixer if you prefer. The zip-top bag method is just a fun and unique way to make this pie, especially when involving kids.
2. How do I store leftover Butterscotch Pie?
Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or foil, for up to 3 days. The crust may soften over time, but the flavor will still be delicious.
3. Can I use homemade graham cracker crust instead of pre-made?
Absolutely! A homemade graham cracker crust works great for this recipe. Simply combine 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs with 1/3 cup melted butter and 1/4 cup sugar, press into a pie dish, and refrigerate until firm.
4. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie up to a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Butterscotch Pie in a Bag is a delightful no-bake dessert that’s both fun and easy to make. With its creamy butterscotch filling and crunchy graham cracker crust, it’s a treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it as a fun family activity or just need a quick dessert, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and enjoy the sweet, nostalgic flavor of butterscotch pie in every bite!