There’s something timeless and comforting about classic Southern desserts — and Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is no exception. Sweet, silky, and full of nostalgic charm, this pie is a testament to the richness of Southern cooking traditions. With a smooth butterscotch custard nestled inside a buttery pie crust, topped with whipped cream and crunchy pecans, this dessert is pure indulgence with every bite.
Whether you’re serving it at Sunday supper, a holiday gathering, or a casual get-together, this pie is guaranteed to steal the show.
Why You’ll Love This Pie
- Creamy and Dreamy: A luscious butterscotch filling made with real brown sugar and butter.
- Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples come together to create something magical.
- Southern Classic: A slice of Americana inspired by Dolly herself.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping a day in advance.
- Versatile: Dress it up with pecans and whipped cream or serve it plain and simple.
Ingredients List
For the Butterscotch Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Assembly:
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Begin by pre-baking a 9-inch pie crust according to your preferred method. Let it cool completely. This can be homemade or store-bought, depending on your preference or time constraints.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Sugar
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar and stir constantly for about 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and combined. This is the foundation of your butterscotch flavor.
Step 3: Mix the Milk and Cornstarch
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, salt, and milk until there are no lumps. Slowly pour this mixture into the saucepan with the butter and sugar, whisking continuously to avoid clumps.
Step 4: Temper the Egg Yolks
In a small bowl, beat the egg yolks. To prevent scrambling the eggs, temper them by slowly adding a small amount of the hot mixture from the saucepan into the yolks while whisking. Once tempered, add the yolks back into the main mixture, stirring constantly.
Step 5: Cook Until Thick
Continue cooking the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency (about 5–8 minutes). Do not allow it to boil.
Step 6: Add Vanilla
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 7: Fill the Crust
Pour the warm butterscotch filling into the cooled, pre-baked pie crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
Step 8: Chill
Cover the pie with plastic wrap, pressing it lightly against the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until fully set.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped pecans. Slice and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Slice – Based on 8 Servings)
- Calories: ~380 kcal
- Fat: ~22g
- Carbohydrates: ~40g
- Protein: ~4g
- Sugar: ~28g
- Fiber: ~1g
Tips for Success
- Use Whole Milk: It provides the richness needed for the smoothest custard.
- Watch the Heat: Don’t let the custard boil or it could curdle.
- Tempering Is Key: Always temper the egg yolks before adding them to the hot mixture to avoid scrambled eggs.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust and double-check all packaged ingredients.
- Boost the Flavor: Add a pinch of sea salt or a splash of bourbon for a sophisticated twist.
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Make-Ahead: You can make the filling and assemble the pie a day in advance. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Storage: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended as the custard may change texture when thawed.
Variations and Customizations
- Toasted Pecan Crust: Replace traditional crust with a pecan graham cracker crust for added flavor.
- Mini Pies: Make individual pies in muffin tins for parties.
- Butterscotch Banana Pie: Layer slices of fresh banana before pouring in the filling.
- Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy fall flavor.
What to Serve With Butterscotch Pie
- Coffee or Espresso: A rich, hot drink complements the sweet filling.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a small scoop on the side for a creamy contrast.
- Fresh Berries: Add a handful of raspberries or blackberries for a tart counterpoint.
Perfect for Every Occasion
Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie fits in beautifully at a variety of gatherings:
- Holiday Tables: A standout among pies at Thanksgiving or Christmas.
- Sunday Suppers: Cap off a big meal with something sweet and memorable.
- Potlucks and Parties: Sliceable and shareable, it’s a crowd favorite.
- Mother’s Day or Birthdays: Show someone you care with a homemade touch.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that channels the warmth, simplicity, and charm of Southern hospitality, this pie is it. Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is rich, velvety, and irresistibly good — just like the iconic star herself. It’s a timeless recipe passed down through generations, cherished for its ease and unforgettable flavor.
With its sweet butterscotch base, flaky crust, and fluffy whipped cream topping, this pie is pure comfort in a slice. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is simple enough to master and sure to become a beloved part of your recipe collection.