As I navigated through a bustling Southern farmers market, the sweet aroma of honey captured my senses, transporting me back to cherished family gatherings filled with laughter and smiles. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for Salted Honey Pie, a delightful twist on classic Southern dessert that effortlessly blends sweet and salty flavors into a creamy custard filling nestled in a buttery pie crust. This indulgent treat is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for impressing guests at holiday gatherings or enjoying with loved ones during cozy afternoons at home. Trust me, with its rich texture and unique flavor profile, this pie will become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Are you ready to dive into the sweet bliss of this comforting dessert?
Why is Salted Honey Pie So Irresistible?
Sweet-Salty Bliss: The unique contrast between rich honey and a hint of sea salt creates an unforgettable flavor experience that’s sure to wow your taste buds.
Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can achieve this pie with confidence. Perfect for those busy days when you crave something delicious without the fuss!
Versatile Delight: Enjoy it warm straight from the oven or chilled in the fridge. This pie pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside a comforting cup of coffee.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply indulging yourself, this pie is destined to be the star of the dessert table!
Inspired by Tradition: Salted Honey Pie reflects a modern twist on classic Southern desserts, making it a delightful addition to any recipe collection. For a different flavor experience, check out Boston Cream Pie or Key Lime Pie Mini Desserts.
Salted Honey Pie Ingredients
For the Crust
• 9-inch Pie Crust – Homemade or store-bought, ensure it’s blind baked for a crispy base.
For the Filling
• ½ Cup Unsalted Butter – Melted and slightly cooled to add richness and depth.
• ¾ Cup Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling; adjust to your taste.
• ¼ Cup Cornmeal (Fine Grind) – Provides structure without unwanted grit.
• ¼ Teaspoon Salt – A little pinch balances the sweetness beautifully.
• 1 Tablespoon White Vinegar or Lemon Juice – Brightens the flavor; lemon juice gives a fresh twist.
• 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract – Enhances the aromatic quality of the pie.
• ½ Cup Honey (Wildflower or Clover) – Essential for the classic flavor profile of salted honey pie.
• 3 Large Eggs – Room temperature eggs help create a smooth custard texture.
• ½ Cup Heavy Cream – This adds to the rich, creamy consistency of the filling.
For Serving
• Flaky Sea Salt – A sprinkle on top just before serving enhances the sweet-salty experience.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Burnt Honey Pie
Step 1: Prepare Pie Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using a store-bought 9-inch pie crust, place it in a pie dish and cover with parchment paper. Fill with pie weights or dry beans and blind bake for 12–15 minutes. Remove the weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden. Let the crust cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Mix Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup melted unsalted butter, ¾ cup granulated sugar, ¼ cup cornmeal, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ cup of honey. Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined, ensuring no lumps remain in your mixture which will be the base of your Burnt Honey Pie.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Cream
Once the filling mixture is smooth, add 3 large eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each addition to incorporate fully. Follow with ½ cup of heavy cream, stirring gently until the custard filling is completely smooth and creamy. This will create a rich, luscious texture essential for the Burnt Honey Pie.
Step 4: Bake Filling
Carefully pour the custard filling into the pre-baked pie crust, ensuring an even distribution. Place the pie dish on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 40-50 minutes. The filling should be set yet slightly jiggly in the center, which signals it’s ready to be pulled from the oven for your gorgeous Burnt Honey Pie.
Step 5: Cool
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This cooling period allows the custard to fully set, ensuring perfect slices when serving your delightful Burnt Honey Pie. The waiting game may be hard, but patience pays off here!
Step 6: Serve
Just before slicing, sprinkle a delicate layer of flaky sea salt atop the cooled pie. This sprinkle elevates the sweet and salty flavors beautifully! Cut into generous slices of your Burnt Honey Pie and serve it on plates or as part of a dessert spread, allowing everyone to enjoy its incredible taste and texture.
Expert Tips for Burnt Honey Pie
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and cream are at room temperature for a smoother custard. Cold ingredients can result in a lumpy texture.
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Perfect Blind Baking: Never skip blind baking the crust! This crucial step prevents a soggy bottom, allowing your Burnt Honey Pie to have that ideal crispiness.
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Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the center during baking; it should jiggle slightly but be set. Overbaking can lead to cracks in the filling, so stay vigilant!
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Cooling Time Is Key: Allow the pie to cool completely for at least 2 hours before slicing. This helps the custard set properly, resulting in neat, clean slices.
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Sprinkle with Salt Last: Add flaky sea salt just before serving to enhance the flavors beautifully. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference in your Burnt Honey Pie!
Storage Tips for Salted Honey Pie
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Fridge: Cover your Salted Honey Pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 4 days to maintain its creamy texture and flavor.
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Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the pie carefully with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, placing it in the freezer for up to 2 months. This preserves the pie’s unique sweet-salty taste.
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Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer the frozen pie to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. This gentle method helps retain its delicious custard consistency.
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Reheating: If you prefer to serve it warm, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. Just add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt before serving for an extra pop of flavor!
What to Serve with Salted Honey Pie
Imagine a gathering filled with laughter where your sweet creation forms the centerpiece of an unforgettable meal.
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Whipped Cream: A light dollop of freshly whipped cream brings a lovely contrast to the rich custard, adding a fluffy texture.
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Fresh Berries: Serving with a mix of juicy raspberries and blueberries introduces a tart element that beautifully balances the sweetness of the pie. Their vibrant colors also make the dish more inviting.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting next to the warm pie enhances the indulgence, creating a delightful mix of temperatures and flavors.
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Coffee or Tea: A cup of rich, dark coffee or aromatic chai complements the sweet-salty flavors of the pie, providing a perfect ending to your meal while warming you from the inside out.
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Nutty Caramel Sauce: Drizzling a homemade or store-bought nutty caramel sauce adds a luxurious touch and extra depth of flavor, enriching every bite with warmth and sweetness.
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Toasted Pecans: For a delightful crunch, sprinkle some toasted pecans on top or serve alongside the pie. Their earthy flavor pairs harmoniously with the sweet notes of honey while enhancing the texture experience.
Salted Honey Pie: Fun Variations
Customize your pie experience with these delightful twists that enhance flavor and texture!
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Maple Twist: Replace honey with maple syrup for a rich, earthy sweetness. This gives your pie a unique, cozy flavor perfect for fall.
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Vegan Delight: Use coconut cream and plant-based butter for a vegan adaptation. The creamy coconut blends beautifully with the pie’s sweetness, all while being kind to your diet.
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Nutty Surprise: Add finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a delightful crunch. This variation elevates the pie’s texture, making each bite more interesting.
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Citrus Zing: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the filling for a refreshing citrus kick. This will brighten the pie and add an unexpected twist that balances the sweetness beautifully.
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Spiced Variation: Sprinkle in a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm, inviting flavors. These spices will envelop the pie in comforting aromas, making it perfect for cold evenings.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Serve slices drizzled with melted dark chocolate for a decadent finish. The rich chocolate pairs surprisingly well with the sweet and salty notes of the pie.
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Berry Boost: Top your pie with fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries for a tangy contrast. This adds a vibrant dash of color and freshness to each slice.
For even more delicious ideas, try pairing this pie with a dollop of whipped cream, or enjoy it alongside a comforting cup of coffee. And if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t miss out on exploring the wonderful flavors in our Berry Slab Pie or an indulgent slice of Boston Cream Pie.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Salted Honey Pie in advance is a brilliant time-saver for those bustling days. You can prepare the pie crust up to 24 hours ahead—just blind bake it, let it cool, and store it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container to keep it fresh. The filling can be mixed and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the silky texture, simply whisk the filling again just before pouring it into the crust and baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, pour the cooled filling into the prepared crust and bake as directed. This way, you’ll serve a delicious pie with minimal last-minute effort!
Salted Honey Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right honey for my Salted Honey Pie?
When selecting honey, I recommend using wildflower or clover honey for a balanced flavor profile. These varieties have a mild sweetness that complements the pie’s custard perfectly. Avoid overly strong or fragrant honeys, as they can overpower the delicate sweetness of the filling.
What’s the best way to 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. For longer storage, carefully wrap the pie in plastic wrap first, then aluminum foil. You can freeze it for up to 2 months, ensuring it retains that delightful sweet-salty flavor.
Can I prepare Salted Honey Pie in advance for a gathering?
Absolutely! You can bake your Salted Honey Pie a day ahead of time. Just follow the cooling and storage tips, covering it tightly in the fridge after it’s fully cooled. Add the flaky sea salt right before serving, and you’ll impress your guests with minimal effort!
What should I do if my custard filling cracks while baking?
If you notice cracks in your custard filling, it’s often a sign of overbaking. To prevent this, closely monitor the pie during the last few minutes of baking; it should jiggle slightly in the center when it’s done. A water bath can also help maintain moisture while baking, reducing the chances of cracking.
Can I make Salted Honey Pie dairy-free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the unsalted butter with plant-based butter and switch the heavy cream for coconut cream or another dairy-free alternative. Keep in mind that while the texture may be a little different, you will still achieve that delicious sweet-salty flavor profile. Enjoy experimenting with these substitutes!
Irresistibly Creamy Burnt Honey Pie for Your Sweet Tooth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using a store-bought pie crust, cover with parchment paper and bake for 12–15 minutes, then an additional 5 minutes until golden.
- In a mixing bowl, combine butter, sugar, cornmeal, and salt. Add vinegar or lemon juice, vanilla extract, and honey, then whisk until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in heavy cream until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the custard filling into the pre-baked pie crust and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 40-50 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Allow cooling on a wire rack for at least 2 hours to fully set.
- Before serving, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top and slice into generous portions.
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