Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

This delightful Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is a showstopper, perfect for family gatherings, celebrations, or just a sweet treat at home. Its rich butterscotch flavor combined with fluffy meringue creates a dessert that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying your hand at pie-making for the first time, this recipe offers a rewarding experience. Get ready to impress your guests with a pie that tastes as good as it looks!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The perfect blend of rich butterscotch and creamy meringue makes each slice unforgettable.
• Family Favorite: This pie is sure to become a cherished recipe passed down through generations.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for holidays, birthdays, or simply as a comforting treat at home.
• Easy to Follow: Step-by-step instructions make baking this pie approachable for all skill levels.
• Stunning Presentation: The golden-brown meringue topping adds an elegant touch to any table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather the necessary tools and equipment to ensure a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Rubber spatula
• Electric mixer (or hand whisk)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Electric mixer: Helps achieve perfectly whipped egg whites for the meringue with minimal effort.
• Rubber spatula: Ensures you scrape every bit of delicious filling from the saucepan.

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust

• 1 pre-baked pie crust (9-inch)

For the Butterscotch Filling

• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 4 egg yolks, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Meringue Topping

• 4 egg whites
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 5 tablespoons granulated sugar

How to Make Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Butterscotch Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, carefully combine brown sugar, flour, and salt. The slow cooking process is crucial for developing rich butterscotch flavor.

Step 2: Mix in Milk

Gradually stir in milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. This helps achieve a smooth texture that’s essential for your pie.

Step 3: Add Butter

Add butter to the mixture and continue stirring until it melts completely. This will enhance the richness of the butterscotch flavor.

Step 4: Temper Egg Yolks

To temper the egg yolks, slowly pour a small amount of the hot mixture into them while stirring continuously. This prevents scrambling and ensures a silky filling.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, stirring until thickened to a pudding-like consistency.

Step 6: Stir in Vanilla Extract

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract to add depth to your butterscotch filling.

Step 7: Pour into Crust

Carefully pour the filling into the pre-baked pie crust. Allow it to cool slightly while preparing the meringue topping.

Step 8: Make Meringue

In a clean bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar together. Start on low speed before increasing gradually until soft peaks form.

Step 9: Add Sugar

Once soft peaks are achieved, slowly add granulated sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form that hold their shape well.

Step 10: Spread Meringue

Spread the meringue over the butterscotch filling, ensuring it touches the crust edges to prevent shrinking during baking.

Step 11: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 12–15 minutes or until you see a beautiful golden-brown color on top of your meringue.

Now you have successfully created Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie! Enjoy serving this exquisite dessert at your next gathering!

How to Serve Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

Serving Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie can elevate any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a holiday feast. Here are some delightful ways to present this classic dessert.

Garnish with Whipped Cream

• Fresh whipped cream adds a light touch and balances the richness of the pie. Try sweetening it with a little vanilla for extra flavor.

Add a Sprinkle of Sea Salt

• A pinch of flaky sea salt on top can enhance the butterscotch flavor and provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness.

Serve with Ice Cream

• Vanilla or caramel ice cream pairs beautifully, adding a creamy texture that complements the pie’s rich filling.

Top with Toasted Nuts

• Chopped pecans or walnuts can bring a crunchy element. Toast them lightly to enhance their flavor before sprinkling on top.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea makes for an excellent beverage pairing, enhancing the overall dessert experience.

Create Individual Servings

• For parties, consider serving mini butterscotch pies in ramekins. This allows guests to enjoy their own portion without slicing the whole pie.

How to Perfect Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

To ensure your Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh eggs and high-quality butter make all the difference in flavor and texture.
• Watch your temperature: Cook over medium heat to avoid burning the sugar and flour mixture while developing that rich butterscotch flavor.
• Whip egg whites correctly: Make sure your bowl is clean and dry when beating egg whites for meringue. This helps achieve stiff peaks.
• Cool gradually: Allow the filling to cool slightly before adding meringue. This prevents it from melting into the filling.
• Seal the edges: Spread meringue all the way to the crust’s edges to prevent shrinking during baking.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your meringue while baking for that perfect golden-brown finish; it can burn quickly!

Best Side Dishes for Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is delightful on its own, but pairing it with side dishes can create an unforgettable meal. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pie.
2. Chocolate Chip Cookies: Classic cookies add an extra treat for those who love chocolate alongside their desserts.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses balances sweetness and offers varied textures that complement dessert well.
4. Pecan Pie Bars: Enhance your dessert table with more nutty goodness that echoes flavors found in butterscotch.
5. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy delights pair nicely with butterscotch while offering tropical hints.
6. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm drink option that pairs beautifully with sweet desserts like pie, making it comforting and festive.
7. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a light yet satisfying side that contrasts nicely with pie richness.
8. Classic Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can serve as a nice palate cleanser between bites of sweet pie, providing crunch and freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Skipping the Tempering Process: This mistake can lead to scrambled eggs in your filling. Always temper egg yolks by gradually adding hot mixture while stirring.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Inaccurate measurements can ruin the texture of your pie. Use measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient amounts.
• Overbeating the Meringue: Overbeaten egg whites can become dry and grainy. Stop beating once you achieve stiff, glossy peaks that hold their shape.
• Ignoring Cooling Times: Rushing to serve the pie can result in a runny filling. Allow both the butterscotch filling and meringue to set properly before serving.
• Not Pre-baking the Crust: A soggy crust is disappointing. Always pre-bake your pie crust until lightly golden for a crisp texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store slices of Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

• Freeze whole pies or individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Properly stored, it can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid, and warm slowly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie special?

Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is special due to its rich butterscotch flavor combined with a light, fluffy meringue that creates a delightful contrast in textures.

Can I use store-bought meringue?

Yes, you can use store-bought meringue for convenience, but homemade meringue offers superior flavor and texture that enhances this classic dessert.

How do I prevent my meringue from shrinking?

To prevent shrinking, ensure that the meringue touches the pie crust edges when spreading it over the filling. This helps seal it off during baking.

Can I customize Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie?

Absolutely! You can add crushed nuts or chocolate chips to the filling or top it with caramel sauce for extra flavor variations.

Final Thoughts

Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of tradition and comfort. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a perfect treat for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or mix-ins, making it uniquely yours!