Name: No-Bake Butterscotch Pie: A Decadent Dessert with Effortless Charm
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 240 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk; 1 cup light brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Prepare to be captivated by the irresistible allure of this no-bake butterscotch pie. With its velvety smooth texture and rich, buttery flavor, this dessert is a true delight for the senses. Whether you’re craving a comforting treat or looking to impress your guests, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓

What makes this no-bake butterscotch pie truly special is the perfect balance of sweet and creamy flavors. The combination of a buttery graham cracker crust and a silky smooth butterscotch filling creates a dessert that is both indulgent and irresistible. The best part? This recipe requires minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy a decadent treat without hours of baking and preparation.

One of the standout features of this no-bake butterscotch pie is its versatility. It can be served as a simple, yet elegant dessert for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Plus, the make-ahead nature of this recipe makes it a lifesaver for busy cooks who want to enjoy a delicious dessert without the stress of last-minute preparation.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

The beauty of this no-bake butterscotch pie is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of sweet condensed milk, brown sugar, and heavy cream creates the rich, butterscotch-inspired flavor profile that has made no-bake desserts perennially popular.

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish, making sure to evenly cover the bottom and sides. Refrigerate the crust for 30 minutes to set.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and caramelizes, becoming a deep golden-brown color.
Step 3: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the hot butterscotch mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 4: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until completely set. Serve chilled, with whipped cream or ice cream, if desired.

Timing Overview

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 7 minutes
• Total time: 4 hours 22 minutes

Compared to traditional baked pies which can take up to an hour to prepare, this no-bake butterscotch pie saves you 45% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 429
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 61g
• Fat: 19g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 285mg

These no-bake butterscotch pies provide approximately 8% of your daily carbohydrate requirements and 18% of your daily fat needs, making them a decadent treat that can still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

🌱 Healthy Swaps & Substitutions

• Reduced-fat option: Use low-fat sweetened condensed milk and reduced-fat heavy cream to lower the overall fat content.
• Lower-carb version: Substitute the graham cracker crust with a almond flour or coconut flour crust to reduce carbohydrates.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk, and use a dairy-free graham cracker or nut-based crust.
• Added protein: Fold in a scoop of vanilla protein powder to the butterscotch filling for an extra nutritional boost.
• Boost vegetables: Finely grate carrots or zucchini into the butterscotch mixture for added moisture and fiber.

These modifications can reduce calories by up to 15% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the no-bake butterscotch pie.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• Pair the butterscotch pie with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of chilled milk for a classic dessert pairing.
• Complement the rich flavors with a light, refreshing fruit salad or a crisp green salad for a complete and balanced meal.

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the butterscotch filling: Be sure to cook the filling over medium heat, stirring constantly, to prevent it from burning or becoming too thick.
• Not chilling the pie long enough: Rushing the chilling process can result in a soft, runny filling. Make sure to refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until it’s completely set.
• Using the wrong type of graham crackers: Opt for high-quality, full-sheet graham crackers for the best texture and flavor in the crust.

🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe

These no-bake butterscotch pies retain their quality remarkably well:

• Refrigeration: Store the baked and chilled pie, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the graham cracker crust and butterscotch filling, but do not assemble. Freeze the components separately for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before assembling and serving.
• Freezing baked: Allow the baked pie to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

❓ FAQs

Can I make this no-bake butterscotch pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for making in advance. You can prepare the graham cracker crust and butterscotch filling separately, then assemble and chill the pie up to 5 days before serving. The flavors will continue to develop, and the texture will be perfectly set.

Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes, you can experiment with different crust options. While the graham cracker crust is delicious, you can also try using a baked pastry crust, a nut-based crust, or even a cookie crumb crust. Just be sure to adjust the quantity of crust ingredients to fit your chosen pan size.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be dairy-free. Replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk, and use a dairy-free graham cracker or nut-based crust. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as the texture of the filling may vary with the dairy-free substitutions.

What can I do if my butterscotch filling doesn’t set properly?

If your butterscotch filling is not setting up as firm as you’d like, try chilling the pie for longer, up to 8 hours or even overnight. You can also try adding a teaspoon or two of unflavored gelatin to the filling mixture to help it set more firmly.

Can I add any extra toppings or mix-ins to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with this no-bake butterscotch pie. You can fold in chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added texture and crunch. A sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also take this dessert to the next level.

🎉 Final Thoughts

These no-bake butterscotch pies represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a cozy, comforting dessert or a show-stopping finale to a special meal, they’re sure to impress with their velvety smooth texture and rich, buttery taste. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these no-bake butterscotch pies demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the assembly. So why wait? Indulge in the irresistible charm of this decadent dessert and let the creamy, butterscotch goodness melt in your mouth.