Butterscotch Pie

Introduction

Butterscotch Pie is a classic dessert that never fails to delight with its rich, creamy texture and deep caramel flavor. This pie is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, holiday celebration, or simply a sweet treat to enjoy after dinner. The combination of the buttery, caramelized sugar filling with a flaky pie crust creates a dessert that is both comforting and indulgent. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a homemade Butterscotch Pie that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

For the Butterscotch Filling:

  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar: Adds that essential butterscotch flavor with a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
  • 4 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps to thicken the filling to the perfect creamy consistency.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor by balancing the sweetness of the sugar.
  • 2 1/2 cups whole milk: Provides a creamy base for the filling, giving it a smooth texture.
  • 3 large egg yolks: Contributes to the richness and helps set the filling.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a velvety finish and a subtle buttery flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic note.

For the Pie Crust:

  • 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust: A flaky, buttery crust is the perfect base for the creamy butterscotch filling. You can use a store-bought crust or make your own from scratch.

Preparing the Butterscotch Pie

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed. The cornstarch is crucial here as it will help thicken the filling to the perfect consistency.

Step 2: Add the Milk

Gradually whisk in the whole milk into the sugar mixture. It’s important to add the milk slowly while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Once all the milk is added, continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.

Step 3: Cook the Filling

Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly. As it heats, the filling will begin to thicken. Once it reaches a boil, continue to stir and cook for an additional minute. This process ensures that the cornstarch is fully activated, giving the filling a smooth and creamy texture.

Step 4: Temper the Egg Yolks

In a small bowl, beat the egg yolks until smooth. To prevent the yolks from curdling when added to the hot filling, you’ll need to temper them. Gradually whisk about 1 cup of the hot butterscotch mixture into the egg yolks, stirring constantly. This step slowly raises the temperature of the yolks, allowing them to be incorporated into the filling without cooking them too quickly.

Step 5: Incorporate the Egg Yolks

Return the tempered egg mixture to the saucepan with the remaining butterscotch filling. Place the saucepan back on medium heat and bring it to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Cook for an additional two minutes to ensure the egg yolks are fully cooked and the filling is thick and creamy.

Final Touches and Assembly

Step 6: Add Butter and Vanilla

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract. The butter adds a rich, velvety finish to the filling, while the vanilla enhances the butterscotch flavor. Stir until the butter is fully melted and the filling is smooth and glossy.

Step 7: Fill the Pie Crust

Pour the hot butterscotch filling into the pre-baked pie crust. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly and smooth the top. To prevent a skin from forming on the surface of the filling, place a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface. This step ensures the filling stays smooth and creamy as it sets.

Step 8: Chill the Pie

Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is fully set. The chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up to a sliceable consistency.

Serving the Butterscotch Pie

Once the pie is chilled and set, remove it from the refrigerator and discard the plastic wrap. Slice the pie into 8 equal servings. For an extra touch of indulgence, you can top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Serve the pie chilled and enjoy the rich, creamy flavor of homemade Butterscotch Pie.

Conservation

To store any leftover Butterscotch Pie, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. The pie will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When serving leftovers, you can enjoy the pie chilled directly from the fridge or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.

Conclusion

Butterscotch Pie is a timeless dessert that offers a perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and buttery flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at pie-making for the first time, this recipe is simple to follow and yields impressive results. The rich butterscotch filling paired with a flaky pie crust is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Make this pie for your next family gathering or special occasion, and watch as it quickly becomes a favorite. Enjoy the process of making and sharing this delightful dessert with loved ones!

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