As I unwrapped a jar of golden honey, memories of warm Southern evenings flooded back. This Salted Honey Pie brings the nostalgia of those carefree moments to life with its velvety custard filling and buttery crust. Not only is it a delightful centerpiece for your dinner table, but it’s also incredibly simple to whip up, making it an ideal dessert for both special celebrations and cozy nights in. The perfect balance of sweet and savory, with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top, transforms this classic dish into an unforgettable treat. If you’re ready to impress your friends and family or simply want to indulge in some sweet comfort, this recipe is calling your name. Are you excited to create your own slice of Southern joy?
Why is Salted Honey Pie so special?
Indulgent Experience: Every bite of this Salted Honey Pie takes you on a journey through Southern flavors, blending creamy honey custard with a flaky, buttery crust.
Effortless Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this dreamy dessert, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy with friends.
Versatility: Serve it chilled or at room temperature; pair it with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for that extra touch.
Memorable Flavor: The unique combination of sweetness from honey and a hint of salt elevates this pie beyond ordinary desserts, making it a culinary standout.
Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy evening at home, this dessert is bound to impress! If you loved this recipe, check out our delightful Pecan Pie Crescent or our comforting Chicken Pot Pie for more Southern-inspired favorites.
Salted Honey Pie Ingredients
For the Crust
• 9-inch Pie Crust – Use a homemade crust for that personal touch or grab a store-bought one for convenience.
For the Filling
• ½ cup Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor to the filling; melt and let cool slightly for the best results.
• ¾ cup Granulated Sugar – The main sweetener that enhances the honey flavor beautifully.
• ¼ cup Fine Cornmeal – Provides structure without grittiness, ensuring your Salted Honey Pie has a smooth texture.
• ¼ teaspoon Salt – Enhances overall flavors, balancing the sweetness of the pie.
• 1 tablespoon White Vinegar or Lemon Juice – Brightens the custard for a more vibrant taste.
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract – Adds an aromatic essence to your pie.
• ½ cup Honey (wildflower or clover) – The distinct sweetener that gives the pie its unique and delightful flavor profile.
• 3 Large Eggs – Works as a binding agent, incorporating richness and smoothness into the filling.
• ½ cup Heavy Cream – Creates a luxuriously creamy texture in the pie.
• Flaky Sea Salt (e.g., Maldon) – A finishing touch that enhances both flavor and presentation.
With these simple yet exquisite ingredients, you’re all set to create a dessert that will captivate everyone’s hearts and taste buds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Honey Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Begin by blind baking your pie crust to ensure a crisp base for your Salted Honey Pie. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and chill your pie crust for 30 minutes. Line it with foil, fill with pie weights or beans, and bake for 12-15 minutes. Remove the weights and foil, then bake for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden. Let the crust cool slightly before filling.
Step 2: Mix Filling Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, ¾ cup granulated sugar, ¼ cup fine cornmeal, and ¼ teaspoon salt until smooth. Add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ cup of honey, stirring until the mixture is well blended and uniform in texture. This combination lays the foundation for a flavorful and creamy filling.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Cream
Next, add three large eggs one at a time to your honey mixture, whisking well after each addition to maintain a smooth consistency. Slowly pour in ½ cup of heavy cream while continuing to whisk, ensuring everything is combined and creamy. This rich mixture will give the Salted Honey Pie its luscious custard-like filling.
Step 4: Fill and Bake
Pour the custard filling carefully into the pre-baked pie crust, taking care not to disturb the crust. Place the filled pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the pie should be set with a slight jiggle in the center when ready.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This cooling period helps the filling to firm up. Before serving your Salted Honey Pie, sprinkle a generous pinch of flaky sea salt on top to enhance the flavors and presentation. Slice and enjoy the delightful balance of sweet and salty!
How to Store and Freeze Salted Honey Pie
Fridge: Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the pie securely in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: For gentle reheating, warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain the creamy texture of your Salted Honey Pie.
Presentation Tips: After storing, consider refreshing the sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top for an enhanced visual appeal and flavor burst!
Make Ahead Options
These Salted Honey Pie preparations are ideal for busy cooks looking to streamline their dessert game. You can make the filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the filling ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The crust can also be prepared ahead of time; blind bake it and let it cool, then wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, pour the refrigerated filling into the pre-baked crust and bake as directed. It’s important to let the pie cool completely before slicing to maintain its silky texture, ensuring this delightful pie is just as delicious when planned ahead!
Expert Tips for Salted Honey Pie
Room Temperature Matters: Use room temperature eggs and cream for your pie filling to achieve a smoother texture and better blending of flavors.
Don’t Skip Blind Baking: Ensure to blind bake your crust; this step is crucial for preventing a soggy bottom and results in a perfectly crisp crust.
Cooling Time Is Key: Allow your pie to cool completely before slicing. This will help you achieve cleaner slices and a beautiful presentation.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the pie during baking; if it browns too quickly, lower the oven temperature slightly to avoid overcooking.
Quality Honey Counts: Use high-quality honey for the best flavor enhancement in your Salted Honey Pie. Fresh, local honey can make all the difference!
What to Serve with Salted Honey Pie
Elevate your dining experience with these delightful pairings that perfectly complement the sweet and savory nature of this luscious dessert.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream enhances the pie’s flavors while adding a refreshing coolness.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or blueberries provide a pop of color and tartness that cuts through the richness of the pie.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a luxurious touch, making each bite even more indulgent.
- Hot Coffee: The robust flavor of freshly brewed coffee contrasts beautifully with the pie’s sweetness, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel over individual slices adds depth, creating an enticing blend of flavors that guests will adore.
- Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, a light drizzle of chocolate sauce can elevate the pie’s flavors, introducing a decadent sweetness.
- Chai Tea: Spicy chai complements the honey notes beautifully, bringing warmth and a lovely aromatic experience to your dessert table.
- Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy almond or hazelnut biscotti adds texture and an unexpected twist, perfect for dipping alongside the pie.
- Citrus Salad: A refreshing citrus salad with mint adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the pie, creating a delightful contrast.
- Sparkling Wine: A glass of sweet sparkling wine adds a celebratory touch, perfectly complementing this sophisticated dessert.
Salted Honey Pie Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your Salted Honey Pie! Every twist brings a new sensory delight to your table.
-
Sweetener Swap: Try using maple syrup or agave nectar for a unique flavor profile; just note the texture may alter slightly.
-
Spice It Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm spiciness that enhances the pie’s sweetness. This small addition can evoke cozy memories of your favorite seasonal desserts.
-
Citrus Zest: Incorporate orange or lemon zest for a burst of freshness. This bright flavor lifts the dessert and adds a vibrant touch.
-
Dairy-Free Twist: Substitute plant-based butter and coconut cream for a dairy-free version; the coconut cream adds a hint of tropical flavor, making it quite the delight.
-
Nutty Crust: Blend crushed pecans or almonds into your pie crust for an added crunch that complements the creamy filling beautifully. This substitution adds depth and richness to each bite.
-
Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the top can add an indulgent twist that harmonizes well with the honey’s sweetness.
-
Frozen Delight: Freeze the pie for a chilled treat during hotter months; just remember to adjust the sea salt topping, adding it fresh before serving.
-
Seasonal Fruits: Top your pie with fresh berries or caramelized peaches for a seasonal fruity twist that tastes just as delightful as it looks.
With these variations, your Salted Honey Pie can cater to every palate and occasion! For more delicious inspirations, don’t miss our Free Cherry Pie or the delightful Cranberry Mousse Pie to keep your dessert creations exciting.
Salted Honey Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right honey for my Salted Honey Pie?
Absolutely! When choosing honey, opt for high-quality varieties like wildflower or clover. These types provide distinct flavors that enhance the richness of your pie. Look for honey that is pure and not overly processed—local honey is often a great option!
How should I store my Salted Honey Pie?
To keep your pie fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 4 days. This prevents it from drying out and keeps the flavors intact. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best taste.
Can I freeze my Salted Honey Pie?
Very much! To freeze your pie, wrap it securely in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the oven to restore its creamy texture.
What should I do if my pie crust is soggy?
If your crust turns out soggy, it could be due to not blind baking it long enough. Make sure to chill the crust before baking and use weights for at least 12-15 minutes at 375°F. If you notice a soggy crust while baking, consider lowering the temperature and extending the baking time slightly for a crisper finish.
Can I make Salted Honey Pie dairy-free?
Yes! For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with plant-based butter and replace heavy cream with coconut cream. While the flavor will be delicious, keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly, so adjust the baking time as needed to achieve the desired custard-like consistency.
How long will my pie stay fresh in the freezer?
You can store your Salted Honey Pie in the freezer for up to 2 months. Make sure it’s well-wrapped to preserve its quality. It’s best to label it with the date, so you enjoy it while it’s still at its best!
Salted Honey Pie: A Creamy Southern Delight You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and chill your pie crust for 30 minutes. Blind bake the crust for 12-15 minutes, then bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, cornmeal, and salt until smooth. Add vinegar or lemon juice, vanilla, and honey; stir until blended.
- Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each. Slowly whisk in heavy cream until combined.
- Pour the custard filling into the pre-baked crust and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes until set with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. Before serving, sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
Leave a Reply