If you’re searching for a dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat, look no further than this No Bake Butterscotch Pie. With its creamy filling and sweet, buttery crust, this pie is perfect for warm days when you want to impress without turning on the oven. The rich butterscotch flavor combined with a light whipped topping creates a dessert that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to whip up. Let’s dive into the details and get you started on this luscious treat!

Why It Deserves a Spot

No Bake Butterscotch Pie is a classic dessert that brings together simplicity and decadence in a way that’s hard to resist. It’s an excellent choice for gatherings, potlucks, or just a special weeknight treat. The smooth butterscotch filling is rich yet not overwhelmingly sweet, making it a favorite among all age groups. Plus, the no-bake aspect means you can enjoy the deliciousness without the hassle of baking. It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion!

Gather These Ingredients

To create your No Bake Butterscotch Pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
8 tablespoons (113g) unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter
3 large egg yolks
1 cup (150g) packed light brown sugar
1 ½ cups whole milk
½ cup heavy whipping cream
3 tablespoons (24g) cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream
½ cup (27g) powdered sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Pecans, crushed (optional)

Gear Up: What to Grab

Before you begin, make sure you have these essential items on hand:

Mixing bowls: For combining your ingredients.
Whisk: To ensure your filling is smooth and lump-free.
9-inch pie dish: The perfect size for your pie.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is key in baking!
Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of the bowl.
Electric mixer: For whipping the cream to fluffy perfection.

Mastering No Bake Butterscotch Pie: How-To

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are well coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form your crust. Place the crust in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Create the Butterscotch Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add the brown sugar and whisk until combined. Slowly stir in the whole milk, followed by the cornstarch. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Temper the Egg Yolks

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually pour in a small amount of the hot butterscotch mixture into the egg yolks while whisking constantly to temper them. This prevents the eggs from scrambling. Once combined, pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan and cook for an additional minute, continuing to whisk until thickened.

Step 4: Flavor It Up

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the filling to cool for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.

Step 5: Whip the Cream

In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the cooled butterscotch mixture until combined. Then, fold in the remaining whipped cream until no streaks remain.

Step 6: Assemble the Pie

Pour the butterscotch filling into your prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

When ready to serve, top the pie with additional whipped cream and crushed pecans if desired. Slice and enjoy the creamy, dreamy goodness of your No Bake Butterscotch Pie!

Make It Fit Your Plan

Whether you’re following a specific diet or just looking to modify the recipe, here are some tips:

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream for the heavy whipping cream and use a dairy-free milk alternative.
Reduced Sugar: Reduce the amount of brown sugar slightly or use a sugar substitute.
Nut-Free: Omit the pecans or swap them for crushed graham crackers for added texture.

Pro Perspective

This No Bake Butterscotch Pie is not only easy to make but also allows for creativity. Consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache on top for a chocolate butterscotch combo, or a sprinkle of sea salt for a delightful contrast to the sweetness. The pie is best enjoyed chilled and can be made a day in advance, making it a perfect choice for parties or gatherings!

Best Ways to Store

To keep your No Bake Butterscotch Pie fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan to make it ahead of time, it’s best to add the whipped cream topping just before serving to maintain its fluffiness. You can also freeze the pie for up to a month; just be sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw it in the fridge before serving for the best texture.

Questions People Ask

Can I use a store-bought pie crust for this recipe?

Absolutely! A store-bought graham cracker crust can save you time and effort. Just pour the filling into the crust and follow the same chilling instructions.

What can I do if my filling doesn’t thicken?

If your filling doesn’t thicken as expected, return it to the heat and cook for a few more minutes while continuously whisking. The cornstarch needs to reach a specific temperature to activate its thickening properties.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, this pie is perfect for making ahead. It requires at least 4 hours to chill, but overnight is even better.

Is there a different flavor I can make using this recipe?

Certainly! You can easily swap out the butterscotch for chocolate or even vanilla. Just adjust the sugar and flavoring accordingly for a unique twist on this classic pie.

Wrap-Up

This No Bake Butterscotch Pie is a sweet testament to the joys of simple desserts that require minimal effort yet yield maximum flavor. With its delightful combination of rich butterscotch and creamy whipped topping, it’s sure to become a staple in your dessert rotation. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or savoring it all on your own, this pie will leave you wanting more. Enjoy every bite!