True Butterscotch Pie
A rich, creamy butterscotch pie featuring a sweet caramel-like flavor, perfect for dessert lovers seeking a nostalgic, comforting treat with a smooth custard filling.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the scant cup of white sugar, the butter, and the salt into a heavy saucepan or iron skillet and brown (scorch) lightly until the sugar and butter are melted.
- Pour in the hot water over the sugar mixture and let boil for a short time until everything is well dissolved.
- Mix the flour with the milk and beaten egg yolk to make a smooth mixture.
- Pour this slowly into the sugar-syrup mixture so it does not curdle.
- Cook over low heat until the pudding is thick.
- Pour the mixture into an 8-inch baked pie shell.
- Cover with meringue made from your favorite recipe.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your True Butterscotch Pie, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg to the filling. If you're out of white sugar, brown sugar can be a great substitute for a deeper flavor. For a gluten-free version, use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the filling.
Serving Suggestions
For an elegant presentation, serve the pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. This pie pairs beautifully with Quick Spinach Salad for a light meal. Add a slice of fresh fruit like strawberries or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flair.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften the filling slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of True Butterscotch Pie contains roughly 345 calories, with 8g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 923mg per serving (40% 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 filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When ready to use, pour it into the baked pie shell and top with meringue.
What can I use if I don't have meringue ingredients?
If you prefer not to make meringue, you can simply top the pie with whipped cream or a layer of cool whip. This provides a delightful creamy contrast to the butterscotch filling without the need for egg whites.
How do I prevent the filling from curdling?
To prevent curdling, make sure to temper the egg yolk by mixing it with the flour and milk first before slowly adding it to the hot sugar mixture. Stir constantly while adding to ensure a smooth consistency.
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).