There’s a certain charm that fills the kitchen when you bake a pie, and nothing evokes that magic quite like a Salted Honey Pie. As I whisk together the velvety honey custard and watch it nestle into a buttery crust, I can’t help but reminisce about warm Southern afternoons spent gathering around the table with loved ones. The moment you cut into the pie and reveal its creamy filling, topped with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, is truly captivating.
This dessert uniquely balances sweetness with a savory twist, making it a standout for any gathering. Finding a recipe that not only dazzles the eyes but also satisfies the taste buds can be a challenge, but this pie makes it effortless. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels both sophisticated and comforting. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner with friends, this Salted Honey Pie is poised to impress, inviting everyone to savor the delightful combination of flavors in every slice. Join me as I guide you through this incredible Southern classic that’s sure to become a cherished favorite!
Why is Salted Honey Pie so special?
Irresistible Flavor: This pie offers an exquisite balance of sweet and salty that keeps you coming back for more.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, creating this dessert feels effortless yet rewarding.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, it’s guaranteed to impress both family and friends alike.
Unique Twist: Elevate traditional dessert with the floral notes of honey, setting it apart from ordinary pies.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own, or elevate it with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream for blissful indulgence.
Nostalgic Charm: Each slice transports you to warm Southern afternoons, making it a delightful addition to any occasion.
Salted Honey Pie Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
• 9-inch Pie Crust – Provides the base; opt for store-bought for ease or homemade for a personal touch.
For the Filling
• ½ cup Unsalted Butter – Contributes richness; make sure it’s melted and slightly cooled for the best texture.
• ¾ cup Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling beautifully; using the exact amount makes all the difference here.
• ¼ cup Fine Cornmeal – Adds structure and prevents grittiness; always use fine grind for a smoother finish.
• ¼ teaspoon Salt – Enhances the overall flavor, beautifully balancing the sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon White Vinegar or Lemon Juice – Adds brightness and balances the filling’s sweetness; lemon juice offers a fresh twist.
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract – Infuses depth of flavor that complements the honey.
• ½ cup Honey – The primary sweetener; wildflower or clover honey adds unique floral notes.
• 3 Large Eggs – Binds the filling together; room temperature eggs ensure a smoother blend.
• ½ cup Heavy Cream – Adds creaminess; for a dairy-free option, coconut cream works well.
• Flaky Sea Salt (Maldon recommended) – A delightful final sprinkle provides a lovely contrast to the sweet filling.
This Salted Honey Pie recipe shines with the harmony of flavors and textures—it’s a dessert you won’t want to miss out on!
How to Make Salted Honey Pie
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Preheat and Prepare Crust: Start by blind baking your pie crust at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes with weights; then remove the weights and bake for another 5 minutes until golden. Let it cool completely.
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Mix Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your melted butter, sugar, cornmeal, salt, vinegar or lemon juice, vanilla, and honey until everything is thoroughly combined and smooth.
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Incorporate Eggs: Add the room temperature eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Gently stir in the heavy cream until you achieve a silky mixture.
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Bake Pie: Pour the luscious filling into the prepared crust. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes, or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, tent it with foil.
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Cool Down: Allow your pie to cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2 hours; this helps it firm up beautifully for slicing.
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Finish & Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle a generous amount of flaky sea salt over the top to enhance that incredible flavor contrast.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Salted Honey Pie
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Blind Bake: Ensure you blind bake the crust well to achieve that perfect crispy base that complements the creamy filling.
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Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the pie as it bakes; the filling should be set but still have a slight jiggle in the center to maintain a smooth texture.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature eggs and other ingredients; this helps create a sumptuous, homogenous custard for your Salted Honey Pie.
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Cooling is Key: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps maintain its structure and prevents a messy serve.
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Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to experiment with different honey varieties for nuanced flavors, but stick to the correct sugar measurements to preserve texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Salted Honey Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time and effort! You can prepare the pie crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply blind bake the crust and let it cool, then mix the filling ingredients and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, pour the chilled filling into the pre-baked crust and bake according to the recipe instructions. This method ensures the custard remains just as delicious and creamy, while the crust stays crisp. For optimal quality, sprinkle the flaky sea salt just before serving to maintain its delightful crunch. Enjoy the convenience of a homemade dessert with minimal effort on busy nights!
Salted Honey Pie Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your own magic over this beloved recipe with these delightful twists!
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Maple Twist: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a richer, earthy sweetness. This unique flavor rival offers a cozy vibe perfect for fall gatherings.
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Herb-Infused: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme or rosemary into the filling for a fragrant herbal dimension. The herbaceous notes contrast beautifully with the sweetness!
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Chocolate Drizzle: Finish your pie with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top. This adds a delightful layer of richness that enhances each bite.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the crust for added texture and a delightful nutty flavor that beautifully complements the custard.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger to the filling for a subtle, spicy warmth that elevates the overall flavor profile.
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Coconut Cream: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream to create a tropical version. This swap brings a luscious, dairy-free alternative that pairs wonderfully with the honey.
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Fruit-Infused: Swirl in a cup of fresh berries into the filling before baking. This fruity addition adds a burst of flavor and a colorful twist to your pie.
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Fire and Ice: Incorporate a teaspoon of chili powder for a bold heat and top with a cool dollop of whipped cream to balance it out. A surprising contrast that will tantalize your taste buds!
Each variation breathes new life into the classic Salted Honey Pie, allowing you to create a signature dessert that speaks to your personal taste!
What to Serve with Salted Honey Pie?
The perfect Salted Honey Pie deserves delightful accompaniments to create a memorable dessert experience.
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Whipped Cream: A soft, airy dollop of whipped cream adds a luxurious touch that complements the pie’s rich flavors perfectly.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess and slightly chilled texture of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm custard, creating a delightful contrast with every bite.
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Fresh Berries: Bursting with tartness, fresh raspberries or blueberries provide a refreshing balance against the sweet and salty notes of the pie, brightening the entire dish.
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Herbal Tea: A light herbal tea, like chamomile or peppermint, offers a calming finish after that indulgent slice, cleansing the palate delightfully.
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Almonds or Pecans: Toasted nuts add a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling, enriching the experience and introducing a nutty flavor.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling a bit of warm caramel sauce enhances the sweet side of the pie, inviting those who love a bit of extra indulgence in their desserts.
Pair these treat options with your Salted Honey Pie for an unforgettable dessert spread that your family and friends will rave about!
Storage Tips for Salted Honey Pie
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Room Temperature: Salted Honey Pie can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours after baking. Serve it fresh for the best texture and flavor.
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Fridge: Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature for a delightful treat.
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Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
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Reheating: If you prefer your pie warm, gently heat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to maintain the custard’s creamy consistency without overcooking.
Salted Honey Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best honey for my Salted Honey Pie?
Absolutely! When choosing honey, consider options like wildflower or clover honey, which offer nuanced floral notes that enhance the pie’s flavor. Always smell the honey before buying; it should have a pleasant fragrance, avoiding any that taste overly bitter or fermented.
What’s the best way to store leftover Salted Honey Pie?
To keep your pie fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 4 days. I often find it delicious served chilled, but you can also enjoy it at room temperature; just make sure to let it sit out for about 30 minutes before serving for optimal flavor.
Can I freeze Salted Honey Pie, and if so, how?
Certainly! To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. This way, you can keep it frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. For best texture, reheat gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving.
What if my pie filling doesn’t set properly?
Very! If your filling doesn’t appear set after baking, it might need a little more time in the oven. Check it when it’s slightly jiggly in the center; that’s the perfect consistency. If it didn’t firm up, try baking it for an additional 5-10 minutes. Remember, overbaking can result in a grainy texture, so keep a close eye on it.
Are there any dietary considerations for Salted Honey Pie?
Absolutely! This pie contains eggs and dairy, so it isn’t suitable for vegans or those with dairy allergies. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream. Just ensure all other ingredients meet dietary needs if anyone has allergies, especially to eggs or gluten in the pie crust.
How do I know when my Salted Honey Pie is finished baking?
To ensure your pie is baked perfectly, look for a filling that is set around the edges but still has a slight jiggle in the center. This signals that the texture will remain creamy once it cools. If the crust begins to brown too much, you can carefully tent it with foil to prevent burning while the rest of the pie finishes cooking.
Irresistible Salted Honey Pie: A Sweet Southern Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Blind bake the pie crust for 12-15 minutes with weights, then remove weights and bake for another 5 minutes until golden. Let it cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, cornmeal, salt, vinegar or lemon juice, vanilla, and honey until smooth.
- Add the room temperature eggs one at a time, whisking well after each. Stir in the heavy cream until you achieve a silky mixture.
- Pour the filling into the prepared crust. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes, or until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2 hours.
- Before serving, sprinkle a generous amount of flaky sea salt over the top for added flavor.
- Optional: Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.