Creamy Homemade Butterscotch Pie: A Classic Dessert Recipe

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Introduction

Few desserts evoke the same sense of nostalgia and comfort as a well-made butterscotch pie. With its rich, caramel-like flavor and velvety smooth filling nestled in a crisp graham cracker crust, this dessert is a timeless favorite. Whether served at family gatherings, holiday dinners, or simply as a sweet treat after a long day, butterscotch pie never fails to delight.

This recipe guides you through each step, from preparing the buttery graham cracker crust to crafting the luscious butterscotch filling and finishing it with a light, fluffy whipped cream topping. While the process requires patience—particularly when allowing the pie to set—the result is well worth the effort. Follow along to create a homemade butterscotch pie that will impress your loved ones and satisfy any sweet tooth.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

  • 1 1/4 cups brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon maple extract (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Topping:

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

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
  4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Butterscotch Filling

  1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
  2. Gradually add the milk, whisking until smooth.
  3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking constantly. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until it thickens.
  4. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Slowly pour a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
  5. Gradually pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking continuously. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the filling is thick and smooth.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and maple extract (if using). Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble and Chill the Pie

  1. Pour the butterscotch filling into the cooled graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
  2. Let the pie cool to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.

Step 4: Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping

  1. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until soft peaks form.
  2. Once the pie is set, spread the whipped cream over the top just before serving.

Conclusion

Making a homemade butterscotch pie may take some time and attention to detail, but the reward is a dessert that is both decadent and deeply satisfying. The combination of the sweet, slightly smoky butterscotch filling with the crunchy graham cracker crust and airy whipped cream creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

This recipe is ideal for special occasions or whenever you crave a classic, comforting dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at pie-making for the first time, this creamy butterscotch pie is sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection. Serve it chilled, and enjoy each rich, creamy bite of this timeless treat.

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