If you’re craving a slice of pure Southern comfort, look no further than this Dolly Parton butterscotch pie recipe. It’s a dessert that’s as warm and welcoming as Dolly herself, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. This isn’t just any butterscotch pie; it’s a taste of home, with its rich, creamy filling and the delightful crunch of a pecan crust. For anyone wanting to recreate the magic of a classic Southern treat, this Dolly Parton butterscotch pie is the perfect place to start. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dessert.
Table of Contents
Why This Dolly Parton Butterscotch Pie is a Southern Favorite
Look, I’ve been baking for years, and I’ve tasted my fair share of butterscotch pies. What sets Dolly’s version apart is its sheer simplicity. It’s got that rich, caramelized butterscotch flavor we all crave, but it’s made with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Plus, that pecan crust? It adds this incredible nutty crunch that takes it from “good” to “unforgettable.” This Dolly Parton butterscotch pie is truly a standout recipe.
Ingredients for Your Dolly Parton Butterscotch Pie
What You’ll Need:
For That Crunchy, Nutty Crust:
- Cooking spray (because nobody likes a stuck crust!)
- 143 cups of finely chopped pecans (think of them as your crust’s personality)
- 3 tablespoons of softened, unsalted butter (for that melt-in-your-mouth texture)
- 3 tablespoons of light brown sugar (a touch of sweetness and depth)
- A pinch of salt (41 teaspoon, if you’re feeling fancy)
For the Dreamy Butterscotch Filling:
- 1 cup of brown sugar (the star of the show!)
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch (our thickening agent, keeping things smooth)
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour (for structure)
- 2 tablespoons of butter (because butter makes everything better)
- A pinch of salt (41 teaspoon, just to balance the sweetness)
- 2 egg yolks, beaten (for richness)
- 43 cup of sweetened condensed milk, mixed with 43 cup of water (creamy magic!)
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract (a must-have for depth of flavor)
- Whipped cream, for that cloud-like topping
Making the Creamy Dolly Parton Butterscotch Filling
Getting Down to Baking Business
Crust Time: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Give that pie plate a good spritz of cooking spray. Then, mix your pecans, butter, brown sugar, and salt. Press that mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of the pie plate. Bake it until it’s golden and fragrant about 10-12 minutes. Let it cool completely.
Filling Fun: In a saucepan, whisk together the brown sugar, cornstarch, flour, and salt. Add the butter, egg yolks, and the condensed milk mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and bubbles. Let it bubble for a minute, still stirring, then take it off the heat and stir in the vanilla. Pour it into your cooled crust.
Chill Out: Now comes the hard part waiting. Let that pie chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours, but honestly, overnight is even better. Top with whipped cream before serving.
Tips and Tricks for Your Dolly Parton Butterscotch Pie
My Pro Tips for Pie Perfection
- For a truly exceptional crust, toast your pecans lightly before chopping.
- Don’t rush the filling stir constantly to prevent lumps and scorching.
- Let it chill completely. A cold pie is a happy pie.
Spice It Up a Bit!
- A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg in the filling? Yes, please!
- Toasted pecans or a drizzle of caramel on top? Absolutely!
- Dark brown sugar? For a deeper, richer flavor, go for it.
The Perfect Pie Partners
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream? Classic and divine.
- A steaming mug of coffee or tea? The perfect cozy combo.
Baking Hacks for Busy Days
- Make the crust a day ahead! It’ll save you time.
- Store-bought whipped cream? No judgment here!
Make-Ahead Magic
- The crust can be made and stored in an airtight container for a couple of days.
- The filling can be prepped and stored separately, then assembled later.
Leftover Love
- Keep it covered in the fridge, and it’ll be good for up to 3 days.
Why Everyone Will Love This Pie
- That pecan crust is a crowd-pleaser, trust me.
- It’s the ultimate comfort dessert, perfect for any occasion.
A Little Indulgence, A Lot of Goodness
- Pecans bring healthy fats and fiber to the party.
- Quality ingredients make a world of difference.
Easy Cleanup, Happy Baker
- Cooking spray is your friend!
- Soak that saucepan in warm, soapy water for easy cleaning.
Variations on the Classic Dolly Parton Pie Recipe
Mix It Up!
- Add a layer of melted chocolate to the bottom of the crust.
- Try walnuts or almonds in the crust.
Simply Said, It’s Perfect.
This pie is a testament to the beauty of simple, delicious desserts. It’s a hug in a slice, and I guarantee it’ll become a staple in your recipe collection.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dolly Parton Butterscotch Pie
Your Burning Pie Questions Answered
- Store-bought crust? Sure, but that pecan crust is worth the extra effort.
- Lumps in my filling? Whisk those dry ingredients well, and stir, stir, stir!
- Can I freeze it? You can, but the texture might change a bit.
- How long to chill? At least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal.
- Best way to serve? Chilled, with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
- Brown sugar only? Yes, for that authentic butterscotch flavor.
- Homemade whipped cream? Whip heavy cream with sugar and vanilla until peaks form.
In Conclusion: A Slice of Southern Comfort
Dolly Parton butterscotch pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a taste of home. It’s the kind of pie that brings people together, and it’s guaranteed to leave you with a smile. So, grab your apron, preheat that oven, and get ready to bake up some happiness!

Dolly Parton Butterscotch Pie
Equipment
- Pie Plate
- Saucepan
- Whisk
Ingredients
Pecan Crust
- cooking spray for greasing
- 1 3/4 cups pecans finely chopped
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter softened
- 3 tbsp light brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
Butterscotch Filling
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 large egg yolks beaten
- 3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk mixed with 3/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a pie plate with cooking spray.
- In a bowl, mix chopped pecans, butter, brown sugar, and salt.
- Press the mixture into the bottom and sides of the pie plate firmly.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and fragrant. Let cool completely.
- In a saucepan, whisk together brown sugar, cornstarch, flour, and salt.
- Add butter, egg yolks, and the condensed milk mixture.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and bubbling.
- Let bubble for 1 minute, stirring continuously, then remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
- Pour the filling into the cooled pecan crust.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best).
- Top with whipped cream before serving.