Miss Polly'S Butterscotch Pie
Miss Polly's Butterscotch Pie features rich butterscotch filling with pecans, topped with a golden meringue, offering a nostalgic, sweet, and nutty dessert perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the dark brown sugar, flour or cornstarch, egg yolks, and evaporated milk over medium heat until thickened.
- Remove from heat; stir in white sugar, butter, and chopped pecans.
- Pour the filling into a baked pie shell.
- Top with meringue and brown at 350°F until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a perfectly thickened filling, stir constantly over medium heat to prevent sticking. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with cornstarch. For added depth of flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light. You can also enhance the pie with a pinch of salt or a dash of cinnamon for extra warmth, similar to flavors found in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Miss Polly's Butterscotch Pie chilled or at room temperature, garnished with whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped pecans for added texture. This pie pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of fresh berries to balance the sweetness. For a complete dessert experience, consider serving it alongside a slice of Pineapple Do-Nothing Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to reheat, do so gently in the oven at a low temperature to maintain the texture of the meringue and filling. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the meringue soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Miss Polly'S Butterscotch Pie contains roughly 378 calories, with 2g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% 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 this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and store it in the refrigerator up to one day in advance. Just make sure to fill the pie shell right before serving to maintain its crispness. If you're making the meringue ahead, store it separately and add it to the pie just before baking.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you don't have pecans on hand or prefer a different flavor, walnuts or almonds can be excellent substitutes. For a nut-free option, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut or simply omitting the nuts altogether for a smoother texture.
How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the meringue turns a lovely golden brown, which usually takes about 5-10 minutes at 350°F. Keep a close eye on it to prevent over-browning. An instant-read thermometer can also help; the filling should be set, not runny, when done.
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).