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If you’re in the mood for a luxurious dessert that balances smooth butterscotch flavor with a touch of salty crunch, look no further. This Butterscotch Pudding Pie offers a velvety homemade pudding nestled inside a buttery crust. For extra flair, we top it all off with whipped cream and a dusting of crunchy pretzels. It’s easy enough to make on a weeknight but also special enough for a celebration—and it never fails to wow.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust (graham cracker or traditional pastry)
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 egg yolks, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped cream
- ¼ cup crushed salted pretzels (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Begin by making the butterscotch pudding. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Add the milk, then place the pan over medium heat. Whisk continuously until the mixture begins to steam and starts to thicken. Once it’s hot but not boiling, scoop out about ½ cup of the mixture and slowly drizzle it into the beaten egg yolks, whisking vigorously to prevent the eggs from curdling.
Return the egg yolk mixture to the saucepan, still whisking steadily. Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking until the pudding thickens and just starts to bubble. Remove the pan from heat, and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until well combined and smooth. Let the pudding cool for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on top.
Pour the slightly cooled pudding into your pre-baked crust. Smooth the surface, then cover it with plastic wrap, making sure the wrap touches the surface of the pudding. This helps avoid any unwanted skin. Place the pie in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours to set.
Right before serving, spread a generous layer of whipped cream on top. Sprinkle crushed salted pretzels on the cream for a playful crunch. Slice, serve, and savor every spoonful of this sweet-and-salty treat.
This Butterscotch Pudding Pie is a true all-rounder. It’s delightful for those who crave creamy indulgence, and it can easily be adapted—swap out the salted pretzels for toasted coconut or chocolate shavings if you prefer. The homemade pudding ensures you know exactly what’s going into your delectable dessert, making it a great choice for those mindful of processed ingredients. Comforting, versatile, and simple to prepare, this pie is a perfect sweet treat for anyone, at any time.
