Creamy Homemade Butterscotch Pie Recipe

Easy Creamy Homemade Butterscotch Pie Recipe That Wows Everyone

Sweet memories of grandma’s kitchen come flooding back with this creamy homemade butterscotch pie that whispers comfort and nostalgia.

Buttery caramel notes dance across a silky filling, promising pure indulgence.

Delicate pastry cradles a golden-brown treasure that melts effortlessly on your tongue.

Rich brown sugar and vanilla create a luxurious symphony of flavors that captivate from the first bite.

Smooth custard beneath a flaky crust tells a story of classic dessert perfection.

Each slice promises a journey through warm, decadent layers of pure satisfaction.

Dive into this irresistible pie and let its magic transport you to dessert paradise.

What Makes Creamy Homemade Butterscotch Pie So Irresistible

  • Craft Decadent Dessert: A homemade butterscotch pie promises pure delight with minimal kitchen effort.
  • Tackle Complex Flavors: Breaking down the recipe into simple steps allows anyone to create a gourmet-style dessert without professional baking skills.
  • Master Layered Textures: The combination of creamy butterscotch filling and fluffy whipped topping delivers a luxurious mouthfeel that feels like a restaurant-quality treat.
  • Customize with Ease: Personalize the pie by adding sea salt garnish or extra butterscotch drizzle, making it adaptable for different taste preferences and special occasions.

Ingredients for Creamy Homemade Butterscotch Pie

Pie Crust:
  • Graham Cracker Crust: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the butterscotch filling.
Base Ingredients:
  • Brown Sugar: The key ingredient that gives butterscotch its distinctive rich and caramel-like flavor.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps create the smooth, creamy texture of the filling.
  • Flour: Helps thicken the filling and provide structure.
Liquid and Binding Ingredients:
  • Milk: Creates the creamy base for the butterscotch filling.
  • Egg Yolks: Contribute to the custard-like consistency and help thicken the filling.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its warm, sweet aroma.
Finishing Ingredients:
  • Heavy Cream, Sugar, Vanilla Extract: Combine to create a light and fluffy whipped topping that complements the rich butterscotch filling.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the butterscotch flavor.
Optional Garnish:
  • Sea Salt, Butterscotch Pieces: Add an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal to the finished pie.

How to Make Creamy Homemade Butterscotch Pie

Step 1: Create Luscious Butterscotch Base

In a medium saucepan, combine these delightful ingredients:
  • Brown sugar
  • Butter

Heat over medium flame, stirring constantly until butter melts and sugar transforms into a silky smooth mixture. Sprinkle in flour and cook for a quick 1-2 minutes, creating a rich foundation. Slowly pour in milk, whisking carefully to prevent any pesky lumps from forming. Let the mixture simmer and thicken, stirring frequently for 5-7 minutes until it reaches a perfect creamy consistency.

Step 2: Work Magic with Egg Yolks

In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks with gentle precision. Carefully introduce a small amount of hot mixture to the yolks, whisking continuously to prevent scrambling. Return this luxurious blend back to the saucepan, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until it reaches a dreamy thickness.

Step 3: Add Flavor Boosters

Remove from heat and stir in:
  • Vanilla extract
  • Salt

Pour the velvety filling into a pre-baked pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for a flawless finish.

Step 4: Chill and Set

Cover the pie with plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. This allows the filling to set into a delectable, firm texture.

Step 5: Crown with Heavenly Whipped Cream

In a large bowl, whip together:
  • Heavy cream
  • Sugar
  • Vanilla extract

Beat with an electric mixer until stiff, cloud-like peaks form.

Step 6: Final Flourish

Spread or pipe the billowy whipped cream over the chilled pie. For an extra touch of decadence, sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt or drizzle with additional butterscotch sauce.

Pro Tips for Silky Smooth Homemade Butterscotch Pie

  • Temper egg yolks carefully by gradually adding hot mixture to prevent scrambling, ensuring a smooth, silky butterscotch filling.
  • Cook the roux thoroughly to develop rich, caramelized flavors and eliminate raw flour taste in the filling.
  • Use fresh, high-quality ingredients like real butter and pure vanilla extract for maximum depth and authenticity.
  • Allow sufficient chilling time to help the pie set properly, creating a stable, sliceable texture that holds its shape.
  • Top with homemade whipped cream just before serving to maintain optimal freshness and prevent sogginess.

Flavor Variations to Try With Homemade Butterscotch Pie

  • Salted Caramel Butterscotch Pie: Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the filling for a sweet and salty flavor combination.
  • Chocolate Chip Butterscotch Pie: Fold in mini chocolate chips into the filling or sprinkle them between layers for extra texture.
  • Nutty Butterscotch Pie: Mix chopped pecans or toasted almonds into the filling or sprinkle them on top for a crunchy element.
  • Maple Butterscotch Pie: Replace some brown sugar with pure maple syrup to create a rich, deep maple undertone.

Pairing Ideas for Homemade Butterscotch Pie

  • Flavor Fusion Pairings for Butterscotch Pie
  • Brew Bold Coffee Companions: Dark roast or espresso cuts through the pie's sweetness, creating a perfect balance with its rich, caramel-like undertones.
  • Sip Complementary Liqueurs: Serve a small glass of bourbon or aged rum alongside the pie, which enhances the butterscotch's deep caramel notes and adds warmth to each bite.
  • Elevate with Nutty Sides: Scatter toasted pecans or almonds around the pie plate, adding a delightful crunch and earthy depth that beautifully highlights the butterscotch's complex flavor profile.

Storage Recommendations for Homemade Butterscotch Pie

  • Store the butterscotch pie covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep it away from strong-smelling foods to preserve the delicate flavor.
  • Wrap the entire pie tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Store for up to 2 weeks. Thaw in the refrigerator for best texture.
  • Enjoy the pie chilled, as reheating may cause the whipped cream to separate and the filling to lose its creamy consistency.

FAQs About Homemade Butterscotch Pie

  • What makes butterscotch different from caramel?

Butterscotch is made by heating brown sugar and butter together, while caramel is typically made with white sugar. Butterscotch has a deeper, richer flavor with more molasses notes from the brown sugar.

  • Can I use salted or unsalted butter for this recipe?

Either works, but if using salted butter, reduce or omit the additional salt in the recipe. Unsalted butter gives you more control over the final seasoning.

  • How do I prevent lumps in my butterscotch filling?

Whisk constantly when adding milk and temper the egg yolks by slowly incorporating hot mixture. Use a fine-mesh strainer if you’re concerned about lumps, and stir continuously while cooking.

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Creamy Homemade Butterscotch Pie Recipe

Creamy Homemade Butterscotch Pie Recipe


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4.6 from 39 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Indulgent Butterscotch Pie brings classic comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen, combining rich caramel notes with silky smooth custard. Sweet memories dance across each golden slice, inviting you to savor this timeless dessert that whispers nostalgic warmth.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 6 large egg yolks
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Thickening Agents:

  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Supporting Ingredients:

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 pre-baked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

  1. Craft a rich butterscotch base by melting brown sugar and butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until completely combined and smooth.
  2. Introduce flour to the caramelized mixture, cooking for 1-2 minutes to develop a robust roux, creating a foundation for a velvety filling.
  3. Gradually incorporate milk, whisking meticulously to eliminate potential lumps, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  4. Continue cooking and stirring for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and develops a luxurious consistency.
  5. In a separate bowl, prepare egg yolks and carefully temper them by slowly introducing a small amount of the hot mixture, whisking continuously to prevent curdling.
  6. Return the tempered yolk mixture to the saucepan, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve a more substantial texture.
  7. Remove from heat and enhance the filling with vanilla extract and a hint of salt, creating depth of flavor.
  8. Transfer the luscious butterscotch filling into a pre-baked pie crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula for an elegant finish.
  9. Refrigerate the pie for a minimum of 4 hours, allowing the filling to set completely and develop its rich flavor profile.
  10. Prepare a cloud-like whipped topping by beating heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff, billowy peaks form.
  11. Generously cover the chilled pie with the whipped cream, either spreading smoothly or piping for a decorative presentation.
  12. Optional: Elevate the dessert with a final flourish of butterscotch drizzle or a delicate sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the complex flavor palette.

Notes

  • Temper eggs carefully by slowly adding hot mixture to prevent scrambling, ensuring a smooth, silky filling texture.
  • Create a richer flavor by using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar for deeper caramel notes.
  • Enhance the butterscotch intensity by adding a splash of bourbon or rum during the filling preparation for an adult twist.
  • Accommodate gluten-free diets by substituting all-purpose flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend when making the roux.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Content Specialist & Home Cooking Enthusiast

Expertise

  • Making healthy, comforting meals that fit into real-life schedules
  • Planning balanced, single-serving meals for individuals and small families
  • Writing clear, practical food content with a focus on wellness and ease
  • Using seasonal ingredients to bring variety and freshness to everyday meals

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College – Asheville, NC

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Trained in the basics of professional cooking, with a strong focus on home-style meals, seasonal recipe development, and time-saving kitchen techniques for everyday use.

American Fitness Professionals & Associates – Online

  • Program: Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Certification
  • Focus: Studied how to make healthy eating simple, enjoyable, and accessible

Sarah’s passion for food was sparked by weekend trips to the farmers’ market and her belief that healthy meals should never feel boring.
After earning her culinary diploma and becoming a certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, she set out to help others fall in love with simple, wholesome cooking.
She’s all about celebrating the small wins in the kitchen: a colorful yogurt bowl, a new twist on a classic dish, or a homemade snack that feels just a little extra special.
Outside the kitchen, Sarah is a gardener at heart, a yoga enthusiast, and a believer that fresh herbs can brighten any meal, and any day.

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