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
Imagine the joy of sharing a lovely feast that complements the elegance of your Salted Honey Pie, enhancing both its flavors and the moment.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery smoothness adds a comforting touch to your meal, balancing the sweetness of the pie splendidly.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy, caramelized veggies sport a hint of bitterness that contrast beautifully with the honey’s sweetness.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, colorful fruits provide a refreshing crunch, their tartness perfectly offsetting the pie’s rich flavors with a juicy burst.
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Ginger Tea: Warm and spicy, ginger tea enhances the flavors of the pie while adding a soothing warmth to your gathering.
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Honeyed Whipped Cream: A dollop of this sweet, airy addition mirrors the pie’s flavors, making each bite an indulgent delight.
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Chocolate Tart: For chocolate lovers, this rich, dark dessert creates a decadent duo on the dessert table, with flavors that beautifully intertwine.
These accompaniments not only elevate your Salted Honey Pie experience but also set the stage for unforgettable moments around the table!
Make Ahead Options
These Salted Honey Pies are perfect for busy cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can make the pie crust up to 3 days in advance—simply blind bake it, let it cool completely, and store it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. The filling can also be prepared up to 24 hours ahead; just whisk together the ingredients, cover it, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, pour the filling into the pre-baked crust and bake as directed. This not only saves time but also keeps the pie just as delicious and creamy, ready for a delightful dessert experience at your next gathering!
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.
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.
Variations & Substitutions for Salted Honey Pie
Customize your Salted Honey Pie to make it even more delightful! With a few tweaks and additions, you can explore exciting new flavor profiles.
- Maple Twist: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a warm, earthy sweetness that redefines this classic dessert.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free pie crust for a flavorful, vegan-friendly option.
- Nutty Crust: Swap your regular crust for a nut-based crust, such as almond or pecan, to add a crunchy texture and a lovely nutty flavor.
- Flavor Infusion: Try adding a splash of bourbon or almond extract to the filling for a surprising twist that adds depth and warmth.
- Fruit Fusion: Incorporate a layer of thinly sliced pears or figs into the filling for an unexpectedly delightful fruitiness and natural sweetness.
- Spiced Variation: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or cardamom to the custard mix for a wonderfully aromatic pie that warms the heart.
- Whipped Topping: Serve each slice with a dollop of honey-sweetened whipped cream to amplify the sweet and salty dance on your palate.
- Seasonal Spin: For a festive touch, sprinkle some grated orange or lemon zest into your filling for a fresh, zesty lift that brings brightness to every bite.
Remember, creating your own version of Salted Honey Pie is all about reflecting your taste and preferences. Explore and enjoy! If you love sweet and salty combinations, you might also enjoy my Hot Honey Chicken Bowl or for a delectable side, try out my Honey Lime Cucumber Salad!
Salted Honey Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of honey should I use for Salted Honey Pie?
Absolutely! Choosing the right honey is crucial for the flavor of your Salted Honey Pie. I recommend using wildflower or clover honey, as they have floral notes that beautifully enhance the custard’s sweetness. Always choose a honey that you enjoy eating on its own for optimal taste.
How can I tell when my pie is baked perfectly?
Very good question! Your pie should bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 40-50 minutes. The center should be set but still have a slight jiggle when you give it a gentle shake. If you notice the crust browning too quickly, feel free to tent the edges with aluminum foil to protect the delicate crust from burning.
What are the best storage methods for Salted Honey Pie?
I often make this pie ahead of time! You can keep your Salted Honey Pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving to maintain that lovely custard texture.
Can I use a different type of crust for my pie?
Certainly! If you’re looking to mix things up, you can experiment with different crust types. A graham cracker crust or a nut-based crust like almond or pecan works wonderfully for a gluten-free version. Just remember that the taste and texture will vary slightly from the traditional flaky pie crust!
Is there a dairy-free option for the heavy cream?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream for a rich and creamy filling that still complements the honey beautifully. Just make sure to use full-fat coconut milk—let it rest in the fridge, and then scoop out the cream for a luscious texture.
How should I serve my Salted Honey Pie for the best experience?
I recommend serving your Salted Honey Pie at room temperature, topped with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving! This enhances the sweet-salty contrast beautifully. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch – it’ll be a hit at any gathering!
Indulge in Salted Honey Pie: A Sweet Southern Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Chill the pie crust in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line with parchment and fill with weights, bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are golden. Remove weights; bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Combine melted butter, sugar, cornmeal, and salt in a bowl. Whisk until smooth, add vinegar and vanilla, then incorporate honey.
- Add eggs one at a time, whisking vigorously after each. Finally, add heavy cream and whisk until combined.
- Pour filling into pre-baked crust, spreading evenly. Place pie on a baking sheet for easy handling.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes until set with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing.
- Sprinkle with flaky salt before serving. Slice and enjoy!
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