When you hear the name Dolly Parton, you likely think of legendary music, incredible talent, and a heart of gold. But did you know she also brings joy to the kitchen with her delicious recipes? One of her most beloved culinary contributions is her famous Butterscotch Pie. This isn't just any pie; it's a taste of pure Southern comfort, rich with sweet nostalgia and creamy perfection.
Originating from the heart of the South, this pie embodies everything wonderful about classic homemade desserts. It’s the kind of treat that graced Sunday dinner tables and brought smiles to family gatherings. Whether you're a long-time fan of Dolly or simply a lover of classic desserts, this Butterscotch Pie recipe is a must-try. Get ready to whip up a slice of pure happiness!
The Magic Behind Dolly Parton's Famous Butterscotch Pie
Dolly Parton's culinary roots run deep in the Appalachian Mountains of East Tennessee, where simple, hearty, and incredibly flavorful dishes were a way of life. Her butterscotch pie is a testament to those traditions, focusing on quality ingredients and straightforward techniques that yield extraordinary results. It's a recipe that celebrates the power of homemade goodness.
What truly sets this pie apart is its luscious, velvety filling. Made with a blend of brown sugar, butter, eggs, and milk, it cooks down into a rich, golden custard that's utterly irresistible. Pair that with a flaky pie crust and, if you dare, a dollop of whipped cream or meringue, and you've got a dessert that's fit for a superstar.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Pure Nostalgia: Each bite transports you to simpler times and embodies classic Southern charm.
- Creamy Perfection: The filling is incredibly smooth and melts in your mouth.
- Easy to Follow: Despite its decadent taste, the recipe is surprisingly simple, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This pie is guaranteed to be a hit at any potluck, holiday gathering, or family meal.
Ingredients You'll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this masterpiece. You'll need pantry staples like brown sugar, butter, eggs, and milk, along with cornstarch for thickening and vanilla extract for that essential aromatic finish. A pre-made or homemade pie crust will serve as the perfect vessel for this golden filling.
Essential Tools for Baking
While this recipe is straightforward, having the right tools can make all the difference. A sturdy whisk and a good saucepan are crucial for creating the perfect, lump-free butterscotch filling. And of course, a reliable Quality Chef's Knife can be handy for preparing any additional garnishes or for slicing other ingredients in your kitchen.
Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Perfection
Making Dolly Parton's Butterscotch Pie is a rewarding experience. The process involves cooking a rich custard filling on the stovetop, pouring it into a pre-baked pie shell, and then chilling it to perfection. Patience during the chilling phase is key to achieving that ideal set.
Tips for the Best Butterscotch Pie
- Don't Rush the Cook: Cook the filling over medium heat, stirring constantly, to prevent scorching and ensure a smooth custard.
- Chill Thoroughly: Allow ample time for the pie to chill. This is crucial for the filling to set properly and achieve its ideal texture.
- Quality Ingredients: Since there are few ingredients, the quality truly shines through. Use good butter and fresh eggs.
- Meringue or Whipped Cream: While optional, a light meringue topping or a generous dollop of homemade whipped cream elevates this pie to another level.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this magnificent pie chilled, perhaps with a dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk.
Dolly Parton's Butterscotch Pie is more than just a dessert; it's a culinary hug, a reminder of home, and a testament to the simple joys of life. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and prepare to create a truly unforgettable dessert that will sing sweet melodies to your taste buds!
FAQs
What makes Dolly Parton's Butterscotch Pie so special?
Dolly Parton's Butterscotch Pie stands out for its incredibly smooth, rich, and deeply caramelized butterscotch flavor. It's a classic Southern dessert that evokes nostalgia and comfort with every bite, often featuring a luscious, creamy filling and a light meringue topping or whipped cream.
Can I make Butterscotch Pie ahead of time?
Yes, Butterscotch Pie is an excellent make-ahead dessert! You can prepare the pie up to 1-2 days in advance. Ensure it's properly chilled for at least 3-4 hours before serving to allow the filling to set perfectly.
How should I store leftover Butterscotch Pie?
Leftover Butterscotch Pie should be stored in the refrigerator. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other food odors. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
What is the secret to a perfectly smooth butterscotch filling?
The key to a smooth butterscotch filling is constant whisking while the custard cooks over medium heat. This prevents lumps and ensures the eggs and cornstarch cook evenly. Also, straining the cooked filling through a fine-mesh sieve before pouring it into the crust can catch any small lumps for an extra silky texture.
Dolly Parton's Butterscotch Pie
- Total Time: 3 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Southern butterscotch pie is rich, creamy, and irresistibly sweet, delivering pure comfort in every golden, nostalgic bite.
Ingredients
1 (9-inch) pie crust, pre-baked
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups light brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 large egg yolks
2 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped cream or meringue, for topping (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, flour, and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is well combined and slightly bubbly.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with about 1/4 cup of the milk. Gradually whisk in the remaining milk until well combined.
Step 3: Slowly pour the milk and egg mixture into the saucepan with the butterscotch mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Continue to cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 4: Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Pour the hot butterscotch filling into the pre-baked pie crust. Smooth the top with a spoon or spatula.
Step 6: Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the filling to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3-4 hours, or until completely set.
Step 7: Once chilled, remove the plastic wrap. If desired, top with whipped cream or a meringue before serving.
Notes
For an extra silky smooth filling, you can strain the cooked butterscotch through a fine-mesh sieve before pouring it into the pie crust. Ensure the pie is fully chilled for the best texture and to prevent it from being too runny.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking, Stove-top
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
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