Butterscotch Salted Pretzel Pecan Pie

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pie takes traditional pecan pie to the next level by adding layers of texture and flavor. The butterscotch chips bring a caramel-like sweetness, while pretzels add a salty crunch that balances the richness of the filling. Finished with a sprinkle of sea salt, each bite is buttery, nutty, sweet, and savory all at once. It’s an unforgettable dessert that feels both familiar and exciting.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pie Crust

1 ¼ cups (155g) all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons granulated sugar
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup (110g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
¼ cup ice water
½ teaspoon vinegar

Pretzel Pecan Pie Filling

1 cup (340g) light corn syrup
¾ cup (150g) light brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 ¼ cups (285g) pecan halves
½ cup (85g) butterscotch chips
¾ cup (50g) lightly crushed pretzels
1 large egg, for egg wash
sea salt, for sprinkling

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. To make the crust, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in vinegar and gradually add ice water, mixing just until dough comes together.
3. Shape dough into a disk, wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.
4. Roll out chilled dough on a lightly floured surface and transfer to a 9-inch pie dish. Trim edges and crimp as desired. Brush crust lightly with egg wash.
5. For the filling, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
6. Fold in pecans, butterscotch chips, and crushed pretzels. Pour mixture into prepared crust.
7. Bake for 50–60 minutes, until filling is set and crust is golden brown. If crust browns too quickly, cover edges with foil.
8. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt while warm. Cool completely before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 8 servings.
Prep time: 30 minutes (plus 30 minutes for chilling dough)
Cook time: 55–60 minutes
Total time: about 2 hours

Variations

• Use a store-bought pie crust for convenience.
• Add dark chocolate chips for extra richness.
• Swap butterscotch chips with caramel bits for a slightly different flavor.
• Use gluten-free flour and pretzels to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving.

Storage/Reheating

Store pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm slices in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes, or serve at room temperature. This pie also freezes well wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crust dough up to 2 days in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to use.

Do I have to make a homemade crust?

No, a store-bought crust works fine if you want to save time.

Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light?

Yes, but the flavor will be deeper and more caramel-like.

Do I need to toast the pecans first?

It’s optional, but toasting enhances their nutty flavor.

Can I substitute caramel chips for butterscotch?

Yes, caramel chips work well as an alternative.

Can I use pretzel rods or twists?

Yes, just crush them lightly so they blend into the filling.

How do I know when the pie is done?

The center should be set but still slightly jiggly it will firm up as it cools.

Should I refrigerate the pie after baking?

It can sit at room temperature for 1–2 days but lasts longer when refrigerated.

Can I freeze this pie?

Yes, it freezes well. Wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months.

What’s the best way to serve this pie?

Serve at room temperature or slightly warm with whipped cream or ice cream.

Conclusion

Butterscotch salted pretzel pecan pie is a deliciously inventive take on a classic dessert. With its sweet, nutty filling, pops of butterscotch, salty crunch from pretzels, and a hint of sea salt on top, this pie delivers a perfect balance of flavors in every bite. Whether for Thanksgiving or a special celebration, it’s sure to become a favorite on your dessert table.

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