Old-Fashioned Butterscotch Pie

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Old-Fashioned Butterscotch Pie offers a rich, creamy filling with deep caramel flavors, perfect for nostalgic desserts and suited for family gatherings or special occasions.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 egg yolks
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 1/2 cups milk

Instructions

  1. Brown butter in a pan, then add sugar and cook together, stirring constantly until sugar is melted.
  2. Add the water; stir slowly and cook until sugar is again dissolved.
  3. Combine cornstarch, egg yolks, and milk, then add to the sugar mixture.
  4. Cook until thickened.
  5. Pour into a baked 9-inch pie shell and top with cream.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider browning the butter until it has a nutty aroma. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute half of the brown sugar with white sugar for a lighter taste. Ensure you stir the mixture constantly to prevent it from sticking or burning. If you prefer a thicker filling, add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch, but do so sparingly to maintain the creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delightful pie chilled, garnished with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Consider serving alongside a light salad or fresh fruit to balance the sweetness. For a twist, try it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftovers, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For best results, enjoy it cold as the flavors meld beautifully. If you prefer it warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, ensuring not to overheat, which could alter the texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Old-Fashioned Butterscotch Pie contains roughly 572 calories, with 17g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (35% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value).

572 kcal 29% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 17.1g 34% DV
Total Fat 34.6g 44% DV
Carbs 48g 17% DV
Fiber 0.2g 1% DV
Sugar 28.5g 57% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 168.7mg 7% DV
Potassium 215.3mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 600mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 273.8mcg 30% DV
Vitamin C 4.6mg 5% DV
Vitamin D 5.2mcg 26% DV
Calcium 268.8mg 21% DV
Iron 6.3mg 35% DV
Contains Milk Egg

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 use a store-bought pie crust instead of making one?

Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust can save time and still deliver a delicious pie. Just follow the package instructions for pre-baking before adding your butterscotch filling. This will ensure a flaky, crisp base that complements the creamy filling perfectly.

What should I do if my filling doesn't thicken?

Alternatively, if it seems too runny after cooling, you can reheat it gently on the stove and add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken it further.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this butterscotch pie a day in advance. Just prepare the filling and pour it into the baked pie shell, then cover and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to develop and makes for a stress-free dessert on the day you plan to serve it. Just remember to add your whipped cream topping right before serving for the best texture.

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).

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