As I walked through the sun-kissed fields of the South last summer, the sweet aroma of blossoming honeysuckle took me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where magic happened daily. This inspired my love for creating the perfect Salted Honey Pie, a delightful twist on a Southern classic. With its silky honey custard filling nestled inside a flaky crust, it’s an elegant dessert that strikes just the right balance between sweet and salty. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also brings a touch of sophistication to any gathering, whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner. Who could resist serving a slice of this creamy, dreamy treat? I can’t wait to share the recipe with you, but I have to ask—how do you feel about adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to elevate your dessert game?
How does sweet and salty sound to you?
Simplicity, preparing this Salted Honey Pie is a breeze, requiring just a handful of everyday ingredients. Decadent, the silky honey custard filling paired with a flaky crust creates a rich, indulgent experience. Versatile, you can customize the flavors by swapping honey for maple syrup or adding extracts. Crowd-pleasing, it’s a dessert that impresses guests at any occasion, from festive holidays to intimate family gatherings. Texture, the sweet-salty contrast and creamy consistency ensure every bite is memorable, making it a delightful addition to your dessert repertoire.
Salted Honey Pie Ingredients
• This delightful dessert is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that enhance its sweet and salty balance.
- 9-inch Pie Crust: – A flaky base that holds the rich custard; opt for store-bought or your favorite homemade recipe, remembering to blind bake it!
- ½ cup Unsalted Butter: – Adds a luscious richness to the filling; melted and slightly cooled works best for easy mixing.
- ¾ cup Granulated Sugar: – Sweetness enhancer for the custard; you can substitute with brown sugar for a hint of caramel flavor.
- ¼ cup Cornmeal (fine grind): – Imparts texture and stability; fine cornmeal is essential to keep the filling smooth and creamy.
- ¼ teaspoon Salt: – A key ingredient that amplifies the sweetness; kosher salt can be a suitable alternative if needed.
- 1 tablespoon White Vinegar or Lemon Juice: – Adds a touch of acidity to balance flavors; fresh lemon juice adds a bright, zesty note.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: – Enhances the overall flavor profile; pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best taste.
- ½ cup Honey: – The star of the show, adding sweetness and depth; choose high-quality honey like wildflower or clover for optimal flavor.
- 3 Large Eggs: – Acts as a binder for the custard; ensure they are room temperature for smoother incorporation.
- ½ cup Heavy Cream: – Provides heartiness and creaminess to the filling; coconut cream could be used for a dairy-free option.
- Flaky Sea Salt: – The final touch that elevates the dish with a sweet and salty finish; high-quality flakes like Maldon are ideal for sprinkling.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Honey Pie
Step 1: Blind Bake the Crust
Chill your 9-inch pie crust in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to prevent shrinkage. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once chilled, line the crust with parchment paper, fill it with pie weights or dried beans, and bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Remove the weights and paper, then bake for an additional 5 minutes until the bottom is set. Let it cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted and slightly cooled butter, granulated sugar, cornmeal, salt, white vinegar (or lemon juice), vanilla extract, and honey until your mixture is smooth and well combined. The Salted Honey Pie filling should have a glossy consistency that’s free of lumps, indicating it’s ready for the next step.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs
Add each of your large eggs to the mixture one at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition to ensure a thorough blend. Once all eggs are integrated, gently stir in the heavy cream until just combined. This process will create a rich custard for your Salted Honey Pie that is silky and decadent, perfect for filling your crust.
Step 4: Fill Crust
Carefully pour the custard filling into your pre-baked pie crust, making sure to fill it evenly. To catch any drips and make handling easier, place the pie dish on a baking sheet. The filling will settle and smooth out as it fills the crust, ensuring the beauty of the Salted Honey Pie shines through.
Step 5: Bake
Bake the pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes. The center should be just set but still slightly jiggly when gently shaken. Keep an eye on the crust; if it browns too quickly, you can tent the pie with foil. This will help achieve that perfect custard without burning the edges.
Step 6: Cool
Once baked, remove the Salted Honey Pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This cooling time is essential for the custard to fully set and will make slicing easier. The pie will take on a lovely texture while cooling, enhancing that sweet and salty flavor.
Step 7: Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle a generous amount of flaky sea salt over the top of your Salted Honey Pie. This final touch elevates the dessert, providing a delightful contrast to the sweetness. Serve at room temperature, pairing it with whipped cream or ice cream for an indulgent treat your family and friends will love!
What to Serve with Salted Honey Pie
Indulging in a slice of this creamy pie invites a flurry of complimentary flavors and textures to create a delightful meal experience.
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Creamy Whipped Cream: A dollop adds a luscious creaminess, enhancing the pie’s sweet and salty notes while providing a light, airy contrast.
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Fresh Seasonal Berries: Juicy strawberries or tart raspberries bring bright acidity, cutting through the richness of the pie and adding vibrant color to your dessert table.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of this classic favorite creates a delightful temperature contrast, melting slightly over the warm pie for a soothing experience.
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Coffee or Espresso: The rich, bold flavors of coffee elevate the dessert while complementing the honey’s sweetness, creating a perfect pairing after any meal.
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Sweet Tea: An iconic Southern beverage that cultivates a charming ambiance; the hint of sugar balances the pie’s flavors, offering a refreshing sip alongside each delightful bite.
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Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A light drizzle adds a touch of indulgence and complexity, bringing a touch of decadence that perfectly complements the pie’s flavor profile.
Each pairing enhances the Salted Honey Pie, turning it into a memorable experience that lingers long after dessert is enjoyed.
Salted Honey Pie Variations & Substitutions
Dive into delicious customization options for your Salted Honey Pie and make it uniquely yours!
- Maple Sweetness: Swap honey for maple syrup for a delightful twist that adds depth and earthiness.
- Nutty Flavor: Use a pecan or almond pie crust instead of traditional for a flavorful crunch and cozy aroma.
- Bourbon Infusion: Add a splash of bourbon to your filling for a sophisticated kick that enhances the caramel notes.
- Coconut Cream: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option that delivers rich, tropical vibes.
- Fruit Topping: Layer fresh fruit like berries or sliced peaches on top before serving to add a refreshing contrast to the richness.
- Warm Spice: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg in the custard for a cozy spice profile, perfect for fall gatherings.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For chocoholics, drizzle dark chocolate over the top for a deliciously decadent dessert experience.
- Lemon Zing: Enhance acidity by adding lemon zest to the filling for a bright, tangy layer that complements the honey’s sweetness.
Feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination! If you’re looking for more honey-rich inspiration, try out my Sweet Harmony Honey Glazed Corn Casserole or the zingy Honey Lime Cucumber Salad for a refreshing pairing. Enjoy the journey of making this beloved dessert your own!
Make Ahead Options
These Salted Honey Pies are a dream come true for busy home cooks! You can prepare the pie crust up to 3 days in advance, simply blind bake it and store it covered in the fridge. The filling can also be made ahead; mix it up to 24 hours before serving and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Just before you’re ready to bake, pour the chilled filling into your pre-baked crust and pop it in the oven. By prepping these components ahead of time, you’ll save precious moments on a busy day while still serving a dessert that’s just as delicious as if you made it fresh. Remember to sprinkle the flaky sea salt just before serving for that perfect sweet and salty finish!
Expert Tips for Salted Honey Pie
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature eggs and cream for a smoother filling, ensuring a seamless blend in your Salted Honey Pie.
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Blind Baking Essential: Don’t skip the blind baking! This crucial step prevents a soggy crust, ensuring a perfectly cooked base for your custard.
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Cool for Clean Slices: Allow the pie to cool completely for at least 2 hours. This will help set the custard, making slicing much easier and cleaner.
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Choose Quality Honey: The flavor of honey significantly influences your pie. Opt for high-quality honey that you enjoy, as it will elevate your Salted Honey Pie’s taste.
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Tent with Foil: If the crust begins to brown too quickly while baking, use foil to tent the pie. This protects the edges while the center finishes baking perfectly.
Storage Tips for Salted Honey Pie
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Fridge: Store your Salted Honey Pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps it fresh while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Freezer: For longer preservation, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results before serving.
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Room Temperature: If you prefer to serve it fresh, you can leave the pie at room temperature for up to 2 hours before serving, but be mindful of any leftovers that need to be refrigerated.
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Reheating: To enjoy warm slices, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This gently warms the custard without compromising its creamy texture.
Salted Honey Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of honey should I use for Salted Honey Pie?
Absolutely! Using high-quality honey significantly influences the flavor of your Salted Honey Pie. I recommend using wildflower or clover honey, as both options provide delightful floral notes that enrich the custard. If possible, sample a few varieties to find one you truly enjoy!
How should I store my Salted Honey Pie?
For sure! Store your Salted Honey Pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This allows the flavors to meld and keeps the pie fresh. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to freeze for up to 2 months. Remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving for the best taste and texture.
Can I freeze Salted Honey Pie?
Yes, you can! To freeze, first, ensure the pie is completely cooled. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil for added protection. It can be frozen for up to 2 months and will maintain its flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
What can I do if my filling doesn’t set properly?
Oh no! If your filling doesn’t set properly, it may need a little extra time in the oven. Be sure to bake the pie until it is just slightly jiggly in the center, typically about 40-50 minutes. If you’re concerned about the crust browning too much, using foil to tent the pie can prevent burning while allowing the custard to firm up. If all else fails, enjoy it as a delicious honey custard dish in a bowl!
Can I make Salted Honey Pie dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can easily customize the recipe to be dairy-free by substituting the heavy cream with coconut cream or another non-dairy milk of your preference. Just ensure it’s full-fat for the best creamy consistency. The flavor may vary slightly, but it will still be utterly delightful!
Indulge in Salted Honey Pie: A Sweet Southern Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Chill your pie crust for at least 30 minutes, then preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line with parchment and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden.
- In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, cornmeal, salt, vinegar, vanilla, and honey until smooth.
- Incorporate eggs one at a time, whisking well after each, then gently mix in heavy cream.
- Pour the filling into the pre-baked crust, using a baking sheet for easier handling.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes until the center is slightly jiggly. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
- Cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours to set the custard.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top before serving at room temperature.
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