Dolly Parton's Butterscotch Pie (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Crust

01 - 1 pre-baked 23 cm pie crust

→ Butterscotch Filling

02 - 330 g brown sugar
03 - 45 g all-purpose flour
04 - 0.25 teaspoon salt
05 - 360 ml whole milk
06 - 115 g unsalted butter
07 - 4 egg yolks, beaten
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Meringue

09 - 4 egg whites
10 - 0.25 teaspoon cream of tartar
11 - 63 g granulated sugar

# Instructions:

01 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and salt, stirring frequently to evenly distribute dry ingredients.
02 - Gradually pour in whole milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps, ensuring a smooth base texture.
03 - Add unsalted butter to the saucepan and continue stirring gently until completely melted and well integrated.
04 - Slowly pour a small amount of the hot butterscotch mixture into the beaten egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
05 - Return the tempered yolk mixture to the saucepan and cook, stirring, for 2–3 minutes until the filling thickens to a pudding consistency.
06 - Remove the pan from heat and stir in vanilla extract for aromatic depth.
07 - Pour the hot butterscotch filling into the pre-baked pie crust and allow to cool slightly while preparing the meringue.
08 - In a clean, dry bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar at low speed, gradually increasing until soft peaks form.
09 - Slowly add granulated sugar to the meringue, beating until stiff, glossy peaks develop that hold their shape.
10 - Spread the meringue decoratively over the warm filling, ensuring it adheres to the crust edges. Bake at 175°C for 12–15 minutes until the meringue is golden brown.

# Notes:

01 - Ensure the egg whites are at room temperature and the mixing bowl is impeccably clean for optimal meringue volume.
02 - Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing for the cleanest presentation and easiest serving.