Old School Butterscotch Tart: 7 Reasons to Indulge Today

Name: Old School Butterscotch Tart: 7 Reasons to Indulge Today
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup water; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 2 cups whole milk; 4 large egg yolks; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup unsalted butter

May 26, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s something incredibly nostalgic about the taste of an old school butterscotch tart that just takes me back to my childhood kitchen. You know, the kind that has a rich, velvety butterscotch filling nestled in a perfectly buttery crust? It’s pure comfort on a plate! This classic dessert is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a delightful reminder of simpler times. I can’t help but smile every time I make it, and trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked too! It’s simple yet indulgent, making it the perfect addition to any gathering or just a cozy night in.

Ingredients for Old School Butterscotch Tart

Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to create your delicious old school butterscotch tart. Each component plays a vital role in bringing out that rich, comforting flavor you’ll adore.

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup cold water
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
2 cups whole milk
4 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup unsalted butter (for the filling)

Make sure your butter is softened for easy mixing, and don’t forget to pack that brown sugar tightly for the perfect sweetness. Trust me, the combination of these ingredients is what makes this tart a true classic!

How to Prepare Old School Butterscotch Tart

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s dive into the delightful process of making this old school butterscotch tart! I promise, it’s easier than it sounds, and the results will have you grinning from ear to ear!

Making the Crust

First things first, let’s get that crust ready! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) because we want it nice and hot. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. It’s okay if there are some larger bits of butter; they’ll melt into buttery goodness while baking!

Next, gradually add the cold water, mixing with a fork until the dough comes together. You want it to be moist but not sticky. Once your dough is formed, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about 1/8 inch thick. Carefully transfer it to a tart pan, pressing it gently into the edges and trimming off any excess. Now, bake the crust for 20 minutes or until it’s beautifully golden brown. This is the moment you want to achieve that perfect crispiness!

Preparing the Butterscotch Filling

While the crust is baking, let’s whip up that luscious butterscotch filling! In a medium saucepan, whisk together the packed brown sugar and cornstarch. Slowly pour in the whole milk, whisking continuously to ensure there are no lumps. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and starts to bubble. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes, so keep an eye on it!

Now, here comes the fun part—tempering the egg yolks! In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks until they’re nice and smooth. Gradually add a scoop of the hot butterscotch mixture to the yolks, whisking quickly to prevent them from cooking. Once combined, pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly, then remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and that extra 1/4 cup of butter until it’s all melted and smooth!

Assembling the Tart

With your crust baked and filling ready, it’s time to bring it all together! Pour that warm butterscotch filling into the baked crust, spreading it evenly. Now, here’s the hard part—let it chill in the refrigerator until set, which should take about 1-2 hours. This is crucial because a well-set filling means a slice that holds its shape beautifully when you cut into it. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

Once set, you can serve it as is or with a dollop of whipped cream for that extra indulgence. Enjoy every last bite of your homemade old school butterscotch tart!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This old school butterscotch tart is not just a dessert; it’s a warm hug in pie form! Here are some reasons why I think you’ll absolutely adore it:

Nostalgic Flavors: It brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy nights, reminding us of the simple pleasures in life.
Quick Preparation: With just a few straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious tart ready to impress in no time!
Rich Butterscotch Filling: The silky, sweet filling is truly the star of the show, with a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Buttery Crust: That perfectly baked crust adds an incredible texture contrast, making each bite a delightful experience.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a special celebration, this tart fits right in, pleasing both kids and adults alike.
Easy to Customize: You can add your twist with toppings like whipped cream or nuts, making it uniquely yours!

Once you taste this classic dessert, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved favorite. Get ready to savor every moment with your very own slice of nostalgia!

Tips for Success

Ready to make your old school butterscotch tart a showstopper? I’ve got some pro tips for you that will ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

Quality Ingredients Matter: For the best flavor, use high-quality unsalted butter and fresh, organic eggs. You’d be surprised how much of a difference it makes!
Chill Your Dough: If your dough feels too soft while rolling it out, pop it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. This helps the butter firm up, making it easier to handle and giving you that flaky crust we all love.
Don’t Rush the Baking: Keep an eye on your crust while it bakes. You want it to be a lovely golden brown, which usually takes about 20 minutes. If it’s too pale, it won’t have that delicious crunch!
Stir Constantly: When thickening the butterscotch filling, stir continuously to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning. It’s a bit of a workout, but it’s so worth it!
Perfectly Tempered Eggs: When tempering your egg yolks, make sure to add the hot mixture slowly. This keeps the yolks from scrambling and gives you that smooth, creamy filling.
Let It Chill: Patience is key! Allow the tart to chill for at least 1-2 hours after filling. This helps the butterscotch set properly, ensuring each slice holds its shape beautifully.
Presentation is Everything: For a lovely finishing touch, consider dusting the top with a bit of cocoa powder or serving with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted nuts. It’s all about making it look as good as it tastes!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be on your way to creating a stunning old school butterscotch tart that will wow anyone lucky enough to have a slice. Enjoy the process, and happy baking!

Variations on Old School Butterscotch Tart

While the classic old school butterscotch tart is simply divine on its own, I love how easy it is to give this recipe a twist! Here are some fun variations to inspire your creativity in the kitchen:

Chocolate Butterscotch: Add a rich layer of melted chocolate to the filling for a decadent chocolate butterscotch tart! Just melt some chocolate and mix it in before pouring your filling into the crust.
Nutty Delight: Stir in some finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the butterscotch filling for an added crunch. You can also sprinkle some on top for a beautiful finish!
Coconut Cream: Mix in some shredded coconut for a tropical twist! Top it off with a layer of whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes to elevate the flavor.
Spiced Butterscotch: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, spiced flavor that’s especially delightful during the fall and winter months.
Fruit Topping: After chilling, consider topping your tart with sliced bananas, fresh berries, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. The fresh fruit adds brightness and a pop of color!
Maple Butterscotch: Swap out the brown sugar for pure maple syrup for a unique twist. This will give your tart an earthy sweetness that’s simply irresistible!

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own! Every variation brings a new flavor profile that can cater to different tastes and occasions. So, gather your ingredients and let your creativity shine with this delightful old school butterscotch tart!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve made this delightful old school butterscotch tart, you might find yourself with some delicious leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Storing it properly is key to keeping that rich flavor and creamy texture intact.

To store your tart, simply cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s well-covered to prevent it from absorbing any other smells from your fridge—nobody wants a tart that tastes like last week’s leftovers!

If you’re thinking about reheating, you really don’t need to! This tart is best enjoyed chilled, as the coolness complements the sweet butterscotch perfectly. However, if you prefer it slightly warmed, you can gently heat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overdo it; you want it warm, not hot! This way, you’ll still enjoy the smooth, rich filling without compromising that lovely texture.

So, whether you’re savoring it fresh or diving into those luscious leftovers, this old school butterscotch tart is sure to bring a smile to your face every time. Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information

Before you dive into this delicious old school butterscotch tart, it’s good to know what you’re indulging in! Please keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these are just typical values per slice to give you an idea:

Calories: 300
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 20g
Protein: 3g

Always remember to enjoy your treats in moderation, and savor every bite of this classic tart! Happy baking!

Your Turn to Enjoy!

Now that you’ve made this delightful old school butterscotch tart, I can’t wait to hear how it turned out for you! Did it bring back those nostalgic flavors and memories? Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts, tips, or any fun twists you added to the recipe. Your feedback means the world to me!

And if you took some gorgeous photos of your tart, I’d love to see them! Tag me on social media or share your pictures in the comments. It’s always a joy to connect with fellow baking enthusiasts, and I’m excited to celebrate your culinary creations. Happy baking, and enjoy every last bite of your butterscotch goodness!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.