Name: Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie 2025
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 cup brown sugar; 3 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 cups whole milk; 3 large egg yolks; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3 large egg whites; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar; 1 pre-baked pie crust

Jump to Recipe

Why You’ll Love Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie
Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is a true Southern delight that brings nostalgia and comfort with every bite. This pie is rich, creamy, and perfectly sweet with a deep caramelized butterscotch flavor. Whether you’re a fan of classic desserts or just love trying famous recipes, Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is sure to win your heart.

Pure Comfort: Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie at Its Best
Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is everything you want in a homemade dessert—smooth, buttery, and packed with that signature butterscotch taste. The luscious filling combined with a flaky crust makes it a treat you’ll crave again and again.

Ingredients for Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

1 pre-baked pie crust
1 cup brown sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
2 cups whole milk
3 large egg yolks
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for meringue topping)
3 large egg whites (for meringue topping)

What You Need to Make Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

Saucepan
Whisk
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Pie dish

Time to Cook Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cooling Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes

Steps to Make Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

Prepare the Butterscotch Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
Temper the Egg Yolks: In a small bowl, whisk egg yolks. Slowly add a spoonful of the hot mixture to the yolks, whisking constantly. Return mixture to the saucepan and cook for another 2 minutes.
Add Butter & Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
Fill the Pie Crust: Pour the butterscotch mixture into the pre-baked pie crust and smooth the top.
Make the Meringue: Beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.

Top & Bake: Spread meringue over the filling, making sure to seal the edges. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until golden brown.
Cool & Serve: Let Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.

Make Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie Perfect

Stir the filling constantly to prevent lumps.
Seal the meringue completely to the crust to prevent weeping.
Use room temperature egg whites for the fluffiest meringue.

Mix It Up with Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm spice note.
Use a graham cracker crust for a twist on the classic.
Swap out vanilla extract for bourbon for an extra depth of flavor.

Perfect Partners for Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

A hot cup of coffee or sweet tea makes the perfect pairing.
Serve Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Busy Day Hero: Make Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie Ahead

Make the filling in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to assemble.

Work Ahead for Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

Pre-bake the crust a day ahead to save time.

Save Some For Later: Storing Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

Store leftovers of Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Everyone’s Happy with Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

This dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at family gatherings.

Good For You Too: Wholesome Ingredients in Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

Made with wholesome ingredients, Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie delivers comforting flavors without preservatives.

Easy Clean Up After Making Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to catch spills.

Switch It Up: Creative Takes on Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

Try a chocolate drizzle on top for a creative twist.

Simply Perfect: The Best Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie
Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is a slice of Southern heaven that’s easy to make and even easier to love. With its silky butterscotch filling and fluffy meringue topping, it’s the ultimate homemade dessert.

FAQs About Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

Can I use store-bought pie crust?
- Absolutely! A pre-made crust works just fine if you’re short on time.
What if I don’t want meringue?
- You can skip it and top Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie with whipped cream instead.
Can I use dark brown sugar?
- Yes! It will give a deeper caramel flavor.
How do I prevent meringue from weeping?
- Make sure to spread it while the filling is still warm and seal the edges well.
Can I make Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie ahead of time?
- Yes, but add the meringue just before serving for best results.
Is there a dairy-free version of Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie?
- Try using almond milk and vegan butter as substitutes.
How do I thicken the filling if it’s runny?
- Let it cook a bit longer, stirring constantly, until it thickens properly.

Conclusion: Enjoy Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie Anytime
Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is a timeless Southern classic that brings warmth and joy to any table. Whether you make it for a holiday, a special occasion, or just because you’re craving something sweet, Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is bound to be a favorite. Give it a try and taste the magic for yourself!

Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Print Recipe

Dolly Parton’s Butterscotch Pie is a classic Southern dessert that’s rich, creamy, and perfectly sweet. With a smooth butterscotch filling, a flaky crust, and a light, golden meringue topping, this pie is a true comfort food. Whether served at family gatherings or as a special treat, it’s a timeless recipe that brings warmth and nostalgia to every bite.

Total Time: 35 minutes + 2 hours cooling
Yield: 8 servings 1x

Instructions

Prepare the Butterscotch Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
Temper the Egg Yolks: In a small bowl, whisk egg yolks. Slowly add a spoonful of the hot mixture to the yolks, whisking constantly. Return mixture to the saucepan and cook for another 2 minutes.
Add Butter & Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
Fill the Pie Crust: Pour the butterscotch mixture into the pre-baked pie crust and smooth the top.
Make the Meringue: Beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
Top & Bake: Spread meringue over the filling, making sure to seal the edges. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until golden brown.
Cool & Serve: Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.