First, let me take a moment to say thank you — truly — for joining me here. Whether you’re a seasoned pie lover or someone chasing nostalgic Southern flavors, you’re in for something incredibly special. Today’s recipe is a heartfelt tribute to tradition, comfort, and the sweet warmth of home: Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie.
If the name alone didn’t already have you intrigued (it is Dolly, after all!), then just wait until the smell of brown sugar and butter starts wafting through your kitchen. This pie is rich, creamy, and tastes like something your grandmother would’ve pulled from the oven on a Sunday afternoon. It’s easy to make, yet tastes like a long-lost secret recipe passed down through generations.
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What Is Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie?
This is old-school Southern comfort in pie form. It features a silky-smooth butterscotch filling made from brown sugar, butter, and milk, enriched with egg yolks and thickened with cornstarch. The texture is luscious — almost pudding-like — and every bite is full of warm, caramelized sweetness.
It’s not fussy. It’s not flashy. But it is absolutely unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Make – Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Minimal Ingredients – Only 7 pantry staples needed!
- Velvety-Smooth Texture – The butterscotch filling is unbelievably creamy.
- Nostalgic Flavor – Sweet, buttery, and rich with that classic Southern charm.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Great for holidays or gatherings.
What Does Butterscotch Pie Taste Like?
Imagine the toasty, deep sweetness of caramel — but with a buttery, brown sugar richness that melts in your mouth. The filling is silky and decadent, with hints of vanilla and salt to balance the sweetness. It’s like the best part of a candy store and a Southern bakery rolled into one unforgettable dessert.
Healthier Comfort, Sweet Benefits
While this pie is a treat through and through, it’s:
- Naturally gluten-free (no flour needed — just cornstarch!)
- Made without heavy cream but still ultra-rich thanks to egg yolks and whole milk.
- Lower in sugar than many traditional pies, but still plenty indulgent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 large egg yolks
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 2 cups whole milk
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
📝 Optional: A pre-baked pie crust or graham cracker crust if you prefer your pie sliceable and portable!
Tools You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Mixing bowls
- 9-inch pie dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredient Swaps & Additions
Want to make it your own? Try these:
- Swap milk with evaporated milk for extra richness.
- Use dark brown sugar for deeper molasses flavor.
- Add bourbon or rum (just a teaspoon!) to the filling for a grown-up twist.
- Top with whipped cream or toasted pecans for extra flair.
- Serve in mini tart shells for individual portions — perfect for parties!
How to Make Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat to 350°F (175°C). If using a crust, have your 9-inch pie dish ready.
2. Make the Butterscotch Base
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
Add the brown sugar, and stir until it’s fully combined and glossy.
3. Mix the Thickener
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and cornstarch until smooth.
Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps.
4. Combine and Cook
Slowly pour the milk mixture into the butter-sugar mixture, stirring constantly.
Raise the heat to medium and cook until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 5–7 minutes.
5. Finish the Filling
Remove from heat and stir in the salt and vanilla extract.
6. Bake the Pie
Pour the filling into your prepared pie dish.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, just until the pie is set (a slight jiggle in the center is okay!).
7. Cool & Serve
Let the pie cool completely — it’ll continue to firm up as it cools.
Slice and serve at room temperature or chilled for a firmer texture.
Serving Suggestions
This pie shines on its own, but try serving it with:
- Fresh whipped cream
- Toasted coconut or pecans
- A drizzle of caramel sauce
- Vanilla bean ice cream (because why not?)
It’s the perfect ending to a holiday meal or a sweet pick-me-up on a lazy Sunday.
Tips for Butterscotch Pie Perfection
- Stir constantly to avoid lumps and scorched filling.
- Don’t boil aggressively — gentle bubbling is key.
- Cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.
- Chill overnight for the best texture if serving later.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in the fridge, covered, for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended — the texture may become grainy once thawed.
- Make ahead: This pie is even better the next day!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a store-bought crust?
Absolutely! A graham cracker crust or shortbread crust works beautifully.
Can I make this pie without eggs?
The eggs are key to that silky texture, but you can experiment with egg substitutes like cornstarch-thickened milk (it won’t be quite the same).
Why is my filling lumpy?
Make sure to whisk constantly and don’t let the mixture boil too rapidly — gentle heat is your friend!
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just use a deep-dish pie plate or make two standard ones.
In Summary…
If you’re longing for a slice of Southern nostalgia — sweet, simple, and soul-warming — Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is it. With just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll create a dessert that tastes like it came straight from a Tennessee farmhouse.
It’s:
- Cozy
- Creamy
- Golden and buttery
- Easy enough for beginners, yet special enough for guests
It’s the kind of pie that disappears in seconds and leaves everyone asking for the recipe.
More Sweet Southern Recipes to Try:
- Old-Fashioned Chocolate Chess Pie
- Classic Southern Banana Pudding
- Grandma’s Coconut Cream Pie
- Buttermilk Pie with a Twist of Lemon
Share the Love! 💛
Tried this recipe? I’d be so happy to see it!
📸 Tag your photos on Pinterest or Instagram and show off your butterscotch masterpiece!
💬 Leave a comment or review below — it means the world to me and helps others find the recipe too.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 37g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 140mg
From my kitchen to yours — enjoy every sweet, Southern bite! 🥧💛
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