
Southern Classic Buttermilk Pie: A Creamy and Comforting Dessert
Buttermilk pie is a Southern classic that combines a rich, custard-like filling with a perfectly crisp crust. Sweet, creamy, and with a hint of tanginess, this pie is perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or anytime you’re craving a comforting homemade dessert. Follow this easy recipe to bring this traditional favorite to your table.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
- 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
Alternatively, you can use a pre-made 9-inch pie crust for convenience.
For the Buttermilk Filling:
- 1½ cups (360ml) buttermilk
- 1½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and cut it in using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough just comes together.
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim and crimp the edges, then chill the crust while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 3: Make the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, sugar, melted butter, eggs, flour, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- If the crust edges begin to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie shield during baking.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack. For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours before serving. Optionally, sprinkle ground nutmeg over the top for extra warmth and flavor.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Buttermilk: Buttermilk is key to achieving the pie’s signature tangy flavor. Avoid substitutions for the best results.
- Don’t Overbake: The pie should have a slight wobble in the center when removed from the oven; it will firm up as it cools.
- Chill the Crust: Keeping the crust cold before baking ensures it remains flaky and crisp.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this pie is both budget-friendly and easy to prepare.
- Rich and Creamy Texture: The custard filling is smooth, luscious, and perfectly balanced.
- Timeless Comfort: A classic dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Serve It Up!
This Southern buttermilk pie is a perfect way to end any meal. Whether you serve it warm, at room temperature, or chilled, it pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Try it today and let us know how it turns out in the comments below. Happy baking!