Rich, creamy, and topped with whipped cream and pecans — this butterscotch pie is a decadent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Southern charm — a rich and creamy butterscotch filling that never goes out of style.
Make-ahead dessert — perfect for chilling overnight before gatherings.
Simple ingredients — pantry staples turned into something elegant.
Crowd-pleaser — smooth, sweet filling paired with a buttery crust and crunchy pecans.

Ingredients

Butterscotch Filling

½ cup unsalted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
3 large egg yolks
¼ cup cornstarch
2 cups whole milk
¼ tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract

Assembly & Garnish

1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust
Whipped cream for topping
½ cup chopped pecans

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 8 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 23 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: ~350 kcal per slice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Crust

Pre-bake a 9-inch pie crust until golden, then let cool completely.

Step 2: Cook Butter and Sugar

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add brown sugar and stir for 2 minutes.

Step 3: Mix Milk and Cornstarch

Whisk cornstarch, salt, and milk in a separate bowl. Gradually add this mixture to the saucepan, whisking until smooth.

Step 4: Temper Eggs

Beat egg yolks in a bowl. Slowly whisk in a small amount of the hot mixture to temper, then add back into the saucepan.

Step 5: Thicken Filling

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened, about 5–8 minutes. Do not let it boil.

Step 6: Add Flavor

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Step 7: Assemble Pie

Pour the butterscotch filling into the cooled crust, smooth the top, and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, top with whipped cream and sprinkle with chopped pecans.

Tips & Variations

For extra depth of flavor, use dark brown sugar.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm spice twist.
Swap pecans for toasted walnuts or leave nuts off for a smooth finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Yes, a pre-baked frozen or refrigerated crust works perfectly for this recipe.

How do I prevent lumps in the filling?
Whisk constantly and add the milk mixture gradually to keep it silky smooth.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely — this pie needs to chill for several hours, making it ideal for preparing the day before.

Final Thoughts

Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is a nostalgic, creamy, and decadent dessert that combines rich butterscotch flavor with a buttery crust and crunchy pecan topping. Whether for holidays, special occasions, or simply a treat-yourself moment, this pie always delivers classic Southern sweetness!