Butterscotch Heaven Pie – Creamy No-Bake Dessert Bliss

A dreamy dessert that lives up to its name, Butterscotch Heaven Pie is rich, creamy, and impossibly easy to make. With a buttery graham cracker crust, luscious butterscotch cream filling, and a fluffy whipped topping drizzled in caramel, every bite is pure bliss. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or when you just need a little sweet escape.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Butterscotch Filling:

• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant butterscotch pudding mix
• 1½ cups whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 1½ cups whipped cream or Cool Whip
• ¼ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

this RECIPE

Instructions

1. Make the Crust
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until fully moistened. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let it cool completely.
2. Prepare the Filling
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the pudding mix, milk, cream, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip until thick and creamy, about 2–3 minutes.
3. Assemble the Pie
   Pour the butterscotch filling into the cooled crust. Spread evenly with a spatula.
4. Top it Off
   Dollop or pipe whipped cream over the filling. Drizzle generously with caramel sauce.
5. Chill and Serve
   Refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours (or overnight) until set. Slice, serve, and prepare to float away on a butterscotch cloud.

Notes

• Want to switch things up? Try a chocolate cookie crust for extra richness.
• Lighten it up with low-fat milk and light whipped topping, if preferred.
• Store leftovers in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 days.

Helpful Tips

• Cream Cheese Matters: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing it, which ensures a smooth, lump-free filling. Cold cream cheese can make the mixture clumpy.
• Chill Time is Key: Let the pie chill for at least 3 hours, but overnight is even better. This gives the filling time to fully set and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Homemade Whipped Cream: Want to go the extra mile? Make your own whipped cream by beating 1 cup of cold heavy cream with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla until soft peaks form. It adds a luxurious, fresh touch.
• Crust Customization: Don’t feel stuck with graham crackers—try crushed gingersnaps, vanilla wafers, or even pretzels for a salty-sweet twist. Just keep the butter-to-crumb ratio about the same.
• Make It Mini: This recipe works great in mini tart pans or even in mason jar lids for individual servings. They’re adorable for parties or gifting!
• Use Quality Caramel: A rich, buttery caramel sauce takes this pie over the top. Store-bought works in a pinch, but homemade gives it a special touch.
• Slice Like a Pro: For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it clean between cuts.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge, covered tightly. It’s best eaten within 3 days for optimal texture and taste.
• Make Ahead Friendly: You can make both the crust and filling a day ahead just assemble and add toppings before serving for the freshest presentation.

Conservation and Storage

To keep your Butterscotch Heaven Pie tasting fresh and fabulous, proper storage is key. Once assembled, the pie should be stored in the refrigerator. Simply cover it loosely with plastic wrap or foil, or place it in an airtight container if it fits. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, though it’s at its absolute best within the first 24–48 hours when the crust is still crisp and the filling is perfectly set.

If you’re planning ahead, you can make the crust and filling separately a day in advance. Store the crust at room temperature in a sealed container or wrapped tightly, and keep the prepared filling covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the pie, top it with whipped cream and caramel, and chill until ready to slice.

Freezing isn’t recommended for this recipe, as the pudding and cream cheese mixture can separate once thawed, and the whipped topping may lose its texture. However, if you must freeze it, do so before adding the whipped topping and caramel. Wrap the pie tightly in several layers of plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge and add the toppings just before serving. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly.

For individual servings, slice the pie and store portions in airtight containers. This makes grabbing a quick dessert (or sneaky midnight bite) even easier.

Avoid storing the pie at room temperature for extended periods, especially if using dairy-based toppings. Always refrigerate leftovers promptly to keep things safe and scrumptious.

Serving Suggestions

Butterscotch Heaven Pie is already a showstopper, but with the right finishing touches, you can elevate it into a true dessert masterpiece. Serve it chilled straight from the fridge for the perfect creamy texture and refreshing contrast to the sweet, buttery flavors.

For a classic presentation, slice the pie cleanly (using a warm knife helps!) and add a final flourish of extra whipped cream or Cool Whip. Drizzle with a little warm caramel sauce just before serving it not only adds shine but also a rich, gooey finish that makes each bite even more decadent.

Want to add a bit of crunch? Sprinkle a handful of toffee bits, chopped pecans, or crushed butterscotch candies on top. A pinch of sea salt over the caramel drizzle can also bring out the butterscotch flavor and add a gourmet touch.

For a festive or seasonal twist, pair a slice with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of cinnamon-spiced whipped cream. It’s perfect for fall gatherings or holiday dessert tables.

Hosting a party? Make it extra special by serving individual slices on vintage dessert plates, garnished with a small mint leaf or chocolate curl. Pair with coffee, hot caramel lattes, or a splash of Irish cream for grown-up indulgence.

This pie also makes a charming addition to dessert bars, baby showers, and potlucks—just slice and serve on small plates or in cupcake liners for easy, mess-free bites.

No matter how you serve it, expect smiles all around!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use cook-and-serve pudding instead of instant?
For this recipe, it’s best to stick with instant butterscotch pudding. Cook-and-serve versions require stovetop preparation and won’t set the same way when combined with the cream and cream cheese.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make it up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the fridge and add the whipped topping and caramel drizzle just before serving for the freshest look and texture.

Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Yes, you can save time by using a pre-made graham cracker crust. Just make sure it’s deep enough to hold all the filling.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Cream cheese gives the filling richness and structure. If needed, you can try mascarpone for a slightly sweeter and creamier variation, but avoid skipping it entirely.

Can I use non-dairy alternatives?
You can try plant-based milk and dairy-free whipped topping, but be sure to use a pudding mix that sets properly with non-dairy milk—some require dairy to thicken.

How do I get clean slices?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts for neat, bakery-style slices.

Is it freezer-friendly?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may change. If you must, freeze without the topping and add whipped cream and caramel after thawing in the fridge.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s creamy, dreamy, and bursting with nostalgic flavor, Butterscotch Heaven Pie truly lives up to its name. With its buttery graham cracker crust, luscious butterscotch filling, and billowy whipped topping finished with a rich caramel drizzle, this pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser from the first bite to the last crumb.

It’s the kind of dessert that feels comforting and special all at once perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, birthdays, or just a cozy night in when you’re craving something sweet and satisfying. It also comes together surprisingly easily, making it a great go-to recipe when you want something that impresses without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Whether you stick with the classic recipe or add your own twist like a nutty crust, toffee topping, or a pinch of sea salt this pie offers endless possibilities for personalization. And since it’s make-ahead friendly, it’s perfect for busy days when you want to check dessert off your list early.

So grab a fork, drizzle that caramel, and get ready to wow your guests or just treat yourself to a little slice of butterscotch bliss. One bite and you’ll understand why this dessert has “heaven” in the name.

More Butterscotch Bliss

Love the flavor of butterscotch and can’t get enough? You might also enjoy trying this classic Butterscotch Pie Recipe from The Pioneer Woman. It’s rich, velvety, and brings that old-fashioned comfort we all crave. It’s a great option if you’re in the mood for a baked version with a custard-style filling perfect for holidays or when you’re feeling a bit nostalgic.

Print