Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

This delightful Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie brings the warmth of homemade desserts right to your table. Its creamy butterscotch filling paired with a light and fluffy meringue makes it a perfect treat for family gatherings, celebrations, or simply as a sweet indulgence after dinner. This pie not only delights the palate but also serves as a beautiful centerpiece, making it an unforgettable addition to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and butter creates a deep, satisfying flavor that is simply irresistible.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this pie is accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for holidays or casual get-togethers, this pie fits seamlessly into any event.
• Showstopper Presentation: The golden-brown meringue topping is not only delicious but also visually stunning.
• Family Favorite: Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a beloved tradition in your home.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie, having the right tools on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pie dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Electric mixer: Makes beating egg whites easy, ensuring you achieve fluffy meringue in no time.
• Saucepan: Ideal for cooking the butterscotch filling evenly over heat.

Ingredients

To make Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie, gather these ingredients:

For the Pie Filling

• 1 pre-baked pie crust (9-inch)
• 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, combine:
– Brown sugar
– All-purpose flour
– Salt

Slowly cook while stirring continuously.

Step 2: Add Milk Gradually

Gradually stir in whole milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. This step is vital for achieving a smooth consistency.

Step 3: Incorporate Butter

Add unsalted butter to the mixture and stir until melted completely. This adds richness to your filling.

Step 4: Temper Egg Yolks

Take a small amount of your hot mixture and whisk it into the beaten egg yolks. This prevents them from scrambling when added back to the saucepan.

Step 5: Thicken the Filling

Pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until thickened like pudding.

Step 6: Flavor with Vanilla

Remove from heat and mix in vanilla extract for an aromatic finish that enhances your filling.

Step 7: Fill the Crust

Pour your smooth butterscotch filling into the pre-baked pie crust. Let it cool slightly as you prepare the meringue.

Step 8: Start Making Meringue

In a clean bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar at low speed before gradually increasing speed.

Step 9: Add Sugar Slowly

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

Step 10: Spread Meringue on Filling

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

Step 11: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes until meringue is golden brown on top.

Enjoy your delicious slice of Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie!

How to Serve Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving it with complementary flavors and textures can elevate the experience for you and your guests.

Classic Presentation

• Serve the pie chilled for a refreshing dessert experience that highlights its creamy filling.

With Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of each slice for an extra layer of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the butterscotch flavor.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Top each slice with sliced bananas or berries to introduce a fruity note that enhances the richness of the pie.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream for a decadent treat that balances the warm flavors of butterscotch.

Coffee or Tea

• Offer cups of coffee or herbal tea alongside the pie to provide a warm beverage option that complements its rich sweetness.

How to Perfect Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

Perfecting Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for a flawless dessert.

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your eggs and dairy are fresh for optimal flavor and texture in your filling and meringue.

• Temper the yolks carefully: This step prevents scrambling and ensures a smooth filling, enhancing the overall texture of your pie.

• Whip egg whites properly: Beat them until stiff peaks form, which will give your meringue structure and prevent it from collapsing after baking.

• Bake until golden: Keep an eye on your meringue while baking. It should be golden brown, indicating it’s perfectly cooked without being overdone.

• Cool before serving: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps set the filling and makes for cleaner slices.

Best Side Dishes for Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

Pairing side dishes with Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing, it adds a creamy texture that complements the pie’s richness beautifully.

2. Coconut Sorbet – This refreshing option provides a light contrast to the sweet butterscotch, making each bite delightful.

3. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, balancing out the richness of the pie.

4. Chocolate Mousse – For chocolate lovers, this indulgent treat serves as a delicious contrast to the buttery flavor of the pie.

5. Pecan Tartlets – These mini tarts offer nutty flavors and crunch that pair well with butterscotch.

6. Lemon Bars – The tangy citrus flavor from lemon bars refreshes the palate after enjoying a rich slice of pie.

7. Cheese Plate – Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese; their creaminess complements sweet desserts nicely.

8. Chai Tea Cookies – These spiced cookies bring warmth and enhance the overall flavor profile when served alongside pie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie can be simple, but a few common mistakes can hinder your results.

• Incorrect measuring of ingredients: Always measure ingredients accurately. Use dry measuring cups for flour and brown sugar for the best results.
• Skipping the tempering process: Failing to temper egg yolks can lead to scrambled eggs in your filling. Gradually add hot mixture to yolks while whisking continuously.
• Not cooling the filling enough: Allow the filling to cool slightly before adding meringue. This prevents the meringue from melting into the filling.
• Under-beating meringue: If meringue isn’t beaten enough, it won’t hold its shape during baking. Beat until you achieve stiff peaks for a perfect topping.
• Not covering edges of the crust: Ensure that meringue touches the crust edges. This prevents the meringue from shrinking away during baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie can last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 1 month, but for best quality, consume sooner.

Reheating Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pie on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat with a lid on until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie.

Can I make Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator before serving.

What are some variations of Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie?

You can add chocolate chips or nuts to the filling for extra flavor and texture.

How do I prevent my meringue from weeping?

Ensure that your pie is completely cooled before adding meringue and ensure it touches the crust edges during baking.

Can I use a different type of crust for Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie?

Absolutely! You can use graham cracker crust or even a gluten-free version if desired.

Final Thoughts

Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is a delightful dessert that’s both rich and comforting. Its creamy butterscotch filling paired with fluffy meringue makes it an irresistible treat. Feel free to customize with your favorite flavors or toppings for a unique twist!