Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

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Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie 🥧✨

A Classic Southern Delight

Introduction

Butterscotch pie is a beloved dessert in the Southern United States, known for its rich, creamy filling and buttery sweetness. This pie dates back to early American kitchens, where home bakers would create indulgent custards using simple ingredients like brown sugar, butter, and eggs. Dolly Parton, a true Southern icon, has a well-documented love for classic, homey recipes, and her version of butterscotch pie is a perfect tribute to old-fashioned Southern cooking.

This pie is smooth, decadent, and full of deep caramel-like butterscotch flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday tables. Whether you’re a longtime lover of butterscotch or trying it for the first time, this recipe will transport you straight to the heart of Tennessee.

Ingredients

For the Butterscotch Filling:

  • 🧈 ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 🍚 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 🥚 3 large egg yolks
  • 🥄 ¼ cup cornstarch
  • 🥛 2 cups whole milk
  • 🧂 ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 🧁 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Pie Crust:

  • 1 9-inch pre-baked pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

For the Whipped Cream Topping (Optional, but recommended!):

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Butterscotch Filling

  1. Melt the Butter & Sugar: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar and whisk continuously until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture becomes smooth (about 2-3 minutes).
  2. Make the Custard Base: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, cornstarch, and ½ cup of the milk. Whisk until smooth and no lumps remain.
  3. Heat the Milk: Slowly add the remaining 1½ cups of milk to the butter-sugar mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
  4. Combine & Thicken: Gradually add the egg mixture to the saucepan, stirring constantly. Continue to cook over medium heat, whisking continuously, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency (about 5-7 minutes).
  5. Add Flavoring: Remove from heat and stir in the salt and vanilla extract.

Step 2: Assemble the Pie

  1. Pour the warm butterscotch filling into the pre-baked pie crust.
  2. Smooth the top with a spatula and let the pie cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
  3. Transfer the pie to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping (Optional)

  1. In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
  2. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie before serving.

History of Butterscotch Pie

Butterscotch desserts trace their origins back to 19th-century England, where “butterscotch” referred to a confection made from brown sugar and butter. The term “scotch” meant “to cut,” referencing the practice of cutting the candy into pieces before it hardened. Over time, butterscotch evolved into a rich custard filling used in pies, puddings, and sauces.

Southern home cooks embraced butterscotch pie as a staple, especially in Tennessee and Kentucky, where it became a Sunday supper tradition. It’s often compared to caramel pie but has a distinctively deeper molasses-like flavor due to the use of brown sugar.

Who Loves Butterscotch Pie?

  • Traditional Southern Bakers: Those who cherish classic Southern desserts like chess pie, pecan pie, and banana pudding.
  • Dolly Parton Fans: Country music lovers who appreciate Dolly’s down-home cooking and Southern roots.
  • Sweet Tooth Enthusiasts: Anyone who loves the deep, buttery richness of butterscotch.
  • Holiday Hosts: This pie is a perfect addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter dessert tables.

Tips for the Perfect Butterscotch Pie

  • Whisk Constantly: To prevent lumps and ensure a smooth custard, whisk the filling continuously while cooking.
  • Chill Thoroughly: Let the pie chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for a firmer filling.
  • Use High-Quality Brown Sugar: Dark brown sugar gives a deeper flavor, but light brown sugar works well too.
  • Homemade vs. Store-Bought Crust: A homemade buttery pie crust elevates the pie, but a pre-made crust works in a pinch.

Conclusion

Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a slice of Southern comfort. Its rich, creamy texture and deep caramelized sweetness make it an unforgettable treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking it for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just because, this pie will bring warmth and nostalgia to your table.

So go ahead, put on a Dolly Parton record, whip up this timeless classic, and enjoy a bite of Southern charm!

Would you like any variations or additional serving suggestions?

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