Butterscotch Meringue Pie
A creamy, rich butterscotch pie topped with fluffy meringue, perfect for special occasions or comforting desserts, combining sweet brown sugar, vanilla, and a crisp crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, cornstarch, salt, egg yolks, and milk in a double boiler.
- Cook until thickened, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and add margarine and vanilla extract.
- Pour into a baked pie shell.
- Top with meringue made from egg whites.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of brown sugar and white sugar. If you prefer a gluten-free option, replace the flour with cornstarch. Make sure to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form for the meringue to hold its shape. To prevent weeping, spread the meringue all the way to the edges of the pie crust.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Butterscotch Meringue Pie chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This pie makes a delightful dessert after a hearty meal like Hopple Popple or alongside a slice of Tarheel Cracklin Cornbread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Butterscotch Meringue Pie in the refrigerator, covered loosely with plastic wrap to prevent the meringue from becoming soggy. It's best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal texture. To reheat, place in a low oven for a few minutes, but be cautious as the meringue may lose its texture if heated too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butterscotch Meringue Pie contains roughly 714 calories, with 11g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (29% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 551mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the pie crust from scratch?
Absolutely! A homemade pie crust will enhance the overall flavor of the Butterscotch Meringue Pie. Use your favorite recipe or a simple butter crust for a flaky texture. Just ensure to pre-bake it until golden before adding the filling.
What can I do if my meringue weeps?
Weeping in meringue often occurs due to excess moisture. To avoid this, make sure your bowl and beaters are completely dry before whipping the egg whites. Additionally, ensure the meringue is spread to the edges of the pie crust to seal in moisture.
How can I tell when the filling is thick enough?
The filling is thick enough when it coats the back of a spoon and leaves a trail when you run your finger through it. It should resemble the consistency of custard. Keep stirring and monitoring closely while cooking to achieve the perfect thickness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).