As I stood in my kitchen, the tantalizing scent of honey warmed by the sun’s early rays wrapped around me like a comforting hug. Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of Salted Honey Pie—a Southern dessert that marries creamy custard with the rich sweetness of honey and a surprising touch of sea salt. This easy dessert doesn’t just look stunning; it offers the perfect balance of flavors that will leave your guests craving more. Whether you’re planning a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration, this elegant pie is sure to impress. Plus, the fact that it requires minimal prep makes it a go-to choice for anyone tired of the fast food routine. Want to discover the secret behind this luscious treat? Let’s get baking!
Why is Salted Honey Pie so special?
Simplicity makes this pie a breeze to create—perfect for bakers of any skill level. Elevated flavors shine through with quality ingredients like rich honey and real vanilla. Elegant presentation and a balance of sweet and salty make it a show-stopper at gatherings. Pair it with freshly whipped cream for a delightful twist or enjoy it with seasonal fruits. This Salted Honey Pie is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings joy to every bite.
Salted Honey Pie Ingredients
For the Crust
• Pie Crust – 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought) is essential for holding the filling; a buttery, flaky exterior is preferred.
For the Filling
• Unsalted Butter – ½ cup, melted and slightly cooled; this provides richness and flavor, so use a higher quality for better taste.
• Granulated Sugar – ¾ cup; sweetens the custard filling and can be adjusted based on your preference.
• Cornmeal – ¼ cup (fine grind); adds texture and structure to the filling without grit.
• Salt – ¼ teaspoon; balances sweetness, but can be omitted if desired.
• White Vinegar or Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon; brightens flavors and both options work well, with lemon lending extra freshness.
• Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon; enhances sweetness and flavor complexity in the pie.
• Honey – ½ cup (preferably wildflower or clover), the primary sweetener that affects the overall flavor profile; quality matters.
• Eggs – 3 large, at room temperature for even mixing; they provide structure to the custard.
• Heavy Cream – ½ cup; adds richness and smoothness to the custard texture.
For Topping
• Flaky Sea Salt – to sprinkle on top just before serving; enhances the sweet-salty contrast, with Maldon salt being recommended.
This Salted Honey Pie promises not only to satisfy your sweet tooth but also to deliver a dish that your loved ones will be talking about long after the last slice is gone!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Honey Pie
Step 1: Prepare Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place your 9-inch pie crust in a pie dish and line it with parchment paper. Fill with pie weights or dried beans to weigh it down, and blind bake for 12–15 minutes. Remove the weights and parchment, then bake for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden. Let your crust cool completely before adding the filling.
Step 2: Mix Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, cornmeal, and salt until smooth. Then, add in the white vinegar or lemon juice, vanilla extract, and honey, stirring until well blended. This mixture should have a silky consistency, creating the delightful base of your Salted Honey Pie.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Cream
Next, crack the three large eggs into the bowl, incorporating them one at a time while whisking vigorously after each addition. Follow this by gently folding in the heavy cream until the mixture is completely smooth and combined. You’ll notice a rich, golden custard forming, ready to be poured into the pie crust.
Step 4: Fill and Bake
Carefully pour the luscious filling into the cooled pie crust, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Place the pie in the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–50 minutes. Watch closely; the pie should be set with a slight jiggle in the center when done. This signals that your Salted Honey Pie is perfectly baked.
Step 5: Cool Down
Once out of the oven, allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This crucial cooling time helps the custard to firm up, ensuring that each slice holds its shape beautifully when served. The anticipation will be worth it!
Step 6: Finish with Salt
Before serving, sprinkle a generous pinch of flaky sea salt over the top of your pie. This final touch will enhance the sweet-salty contrast, making your Salted Honey Pie even more irresistible. Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy this delightful Southern classic!
Expert Tips for Salted Honey Pie
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Use Quality Honey: The flavor of your Salted Honey Pie largely relies on the honey you choose. Opt for wildflower or clover honey for the best taste.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and heavy cream are at room temperature to help create a silky and smooth custard filling. Cold ingredients can lead to lumps.
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Don’t Skip Blind Baking: This crucial step prevents a soggy crust. Blind baking helps the pastry cook evenly, maintaining a crisp texture that beautifully supports the filling.
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Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the pie as it bakes. A slight jiggle in the center indicates it’s ready; overbaking can dry out the custard.
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Cool Completely: Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing. This helps maintain its shape and enhances the creamy texture.
Salted Honey Pie Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to jazz up your Salted Honey Pie with these fun tweaks and substitutions that will cater to your cravings.
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Maple Sweetness: Substitute honey with an equal amount of maple syrup for a warm, earthy flavor twist. It lends a lovely depth that is especially comforting in the fall.
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Agave Alternative: For a vegan-friendly option, swap honey with agave syrup. It’s lighter in flavor but still sweet, so consider using slightly less than the original amount.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream and plant-based butter for a creamy, dairy-free version that does not skimp on flavor. This swap adds a hint of tropical sweetness.
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Nutty Crust: Replace the regular pie crust with a nut crust made from ground almonds or pecans. This adds a fascinating texture and an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with honey.
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Zesty Kick: Swap lemon juice with lime juice for a citrus twist in your custard, adding a refreshing bright note to balance the sweetness of the pie.
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Increased Flavor: Enhance the vanilla by switching to vanilla bean paste. The tiny specks of vanilla bean will create a lovely visual appeal while intensifying the flavor.
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Flavored Salt: Experiment with different types of finishing salts like smoked sea salt or even a flavored fleur de sel to provide an unexpected pop of flavor on top.
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Seasonal Fruits: Top your pie with fresh seasonal fruits like berries or peaches just before serving for a burst of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy custard.
Don’t miss out on serving your pie with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience. And if you’re looking to expand your pie repertoire, check out my recipe for Pumpkin Pie Chia or indulge in some Sweet Potato Pie to keep your pie game strong!
What to Serve with Salted Honey Pie
Nothing complements the delightful blend of sweet and salty like a thoughtfully curated side or accompanying dish.
- Fresh Whipped Cream: The light, airy texture of whipped cream adds a luxurious touch that beautifully contrasts with the silky pie.
- Seasonal Fruits: Juicy berries or sliced peaches bring a burst of freshness to each bite, enhancing the pie’s rich flavors.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A cool scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts perfectly into the warm custard, creating a heavenly dessert experience.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A subtle drizzle of dark chocolate adds depth and richness, making for an elegant presentation and flavor pairing.
- Crispy Bacon: Crumbled crispy bacon introduces a savory twist that harmonizes wonderfully with the pie’s sweetness, elevating every slice.
- Nutty Granola Crumble: A sprinkle of crunchy granola on top provides an unexpected texture contrast, making each bite delightfully different.
- Herbal Tea: Complementing the flavors with a warm cup of herbal tea brings a comforting, cozy atmosphere to any dessert experience.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: Effervescent and refreshing, this drink cuts through the richness of the pie, cleansing the palate beautifully.
- Shortbread Cookies: A buttery shortbread alongside this pie creates a charming duo for those who simply can’t get enough delightful dessert flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These Salted Honey Pies are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the crust up to 3 days in advance by blind baking it, allowing it to cool completely before storing it tightly covered in the refrigerator. Meanwhile, the filling can be mixed and stored in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Just remember to whisk it gently before pouring into the crust to maintain its silky texture. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the filling into the prepped crust and bake as directed. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with ease and minimal fuss!
Storage Tips for Salted Honey Pie
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Room Temperature: Keep the Salted Honey Pie at room temperature for up to 2 hours after serving. If you’re not serving it immediately, cover it loosely to avoid drying.
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Fridge: Refrigerate tightly covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This helps maintain the creamy texture and flavors of the pie.
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Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the pie well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
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Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, gently reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10–15 minutes. This helps restore the softness of the custard without overcooking.
Salted Honey Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right honey for my Salted Honey Pie?
Absolutely! When selecting honey for your Salted Honey Pie, opt for high-quality varieties like wildflower or clover. The flavor of the honey plays a crucial role in the pie’s overall taste, so it’s worth investing in a quality product. If you can, taste a few varieties to find the one you enjoy most!
What’s the best way to store my Salted Honey Pie?
Store your Salted Honey Pie tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This will help maintain its creamy texture and flavor. If you need to keep it longer, wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge to maintain the best taste and texture.
Can I freeze my Salted Honey Pie?
Yes, absolutely! To freeze your Salted Honey Pie, first allow it to cool completely after baking. Then, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving for the best results.
What should I do if the custard is not setting properly while baking?
If your custard is not setting as expected, it may be due to several factors. Make sure the oven temperature is accurate—an oven thermometer can help. If it’s still very jiggly after the suggested baking time, you can bake it for another 5-10 minutes and check again. Remember, it should be set but still have a slight jiggle in the center.
Can I make this pie dairy-free?
Very! To create a dairy-free version of the Salted Honey Pie, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter alternative. Ensure that the alternative ingredients maintain a similar consistency for the custard. This substitution may alter the flavor slightly, but it will still be deliciously creamy!
Are there any allergen considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! The Salted Honey Pie contains common allergens such as eggs and dairy. If you’re serving guests with allergies, you can adjust the recipe. For a vegan alternative, consider using flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and the aforementioned dairy substitutes. Always check labels for any hidden allergens in ingredients, especially if you’re using pre-made crusts.
Salted Honey Pie: A Creamy Southern Delight You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie crust in a pie dish and line with parchment paper. Fill with pie weights or dried beans and blind bake for 12–15 minutes. Remove the weights and parchment, then bake for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, cornmeal, and salt until smooth. Add the white vinegar or lemon juice, vanilla extract, and honey, stirring until well blended.
- Crack the three large eggs into the bowl, incorporating them one at a time while whisking vigorously after each addition. Gently fold in the heavy cream until the mixture is smooth.
- Carefully pour the filling into the cooled pie crust. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–50 minutes until set with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2 hours to firm the custard.
- Before serving, sprinkle a generous pinch of flaky sea salt over the top. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
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