There’s something truly enchanting about the way the aroma of warm honey fills the kitchen, hinting at a special treat waiting to be savored. As I prepared this Salted Honey Pie for a recent gathering, I felt myself transported to simpler times, where desserts were crafted with love and intention. This luscious pie, with its silky honey custard nestled in a buttery crust and topped with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, is not only a feast for the palate but also a true showstopper.
Ideal for both everyday indulgence and celebratory occasions, this elegant Southern dessert strikes the perfect balance between sweet and salty. With straightforward ingredients and an easy preparation process, it allows home bakers of all skill levels to impress their friends and family without the stress of complicated techniques. Trust me, one slice of this delightful custard pie, and you may just find yourself dreaming of warm summer nights and cozy gatherings. Let’s dive into the delicious details of this incredible recipe!
Why is Salted Honey Pie worth making?
Simple Yet Elegant: This dessert showcases how humble ingredients can create something extraordinary.
Versatile Occasion Fit: Serve it at dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or just because—everyone will adore it!
Irresistible Flavor Combination: The blend of sweet honey and flaky sea salt brings a delightful twist that’s sure to please any palate.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Easy to prepare and visually stunning, it’s a guaranteed showstopper that will leave your guests impressed.
Time-Saving & Accessible: With minimal prep time, this pie allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones.
For those who want to explore more delightful flavors or similar desserts, check out my Southern dessert collection!
Salted Honey Pie Ingredients
• Prepare to create a delightful treat!
For the Pie Crust
• 9-inch pie crust – Use homemade or store-bought; blind bake for optimal crispiness.
For the Filling
• Unsalted butter (½ cup) – Adds richness; melted and slightly cooled is best.
• Granulated sugar (¾ cup) – Sweetens the pie; consider brown sugar for a richer flavor.
• Cornmeal (¼ cup) – Essential for structure; use fine grind for the best texture.
• Salt (¼ teaspoon) – Enhances flavor; try sea salt for added depth.
• White vinegar or lemon juice (1 tablespoon) – Balances sweetness with acidity; lemon adds brightness.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) – For flavor enhancement; opt for pure vanilla for quality taste.
• Honey (½ cup) – The main flavoring agent; wildflower or clover honey works wonderfully.
• Large eggs (3) – Provide binding and richness; room-temperature eggs blend better.
• Heavy cream (½ cup) – Grants a luxurious texture; swap with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
• Flaky sea salt – Sprinkle on top for that final touch of flavor balance; kosher salt can substitute.
As you gather these ingredients, imagine the heavenly scents dancing through your home as you craft this Salted Honey Pie—a true Southern delight!
How to Make Salted Honey Pie
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Prepare the Pie Crust: Begin by chilling your pie crust in the refrigerator. Then, line it with foil or parchment paper, add pie weights, and blind bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes. After removing the weights, return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool slightly.
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Mix Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, cornmeal, salt, vinegar or lemon juice, vanilla, and honey until everything is well combined. This mixture should be smooth and creamy, embodying rich flavors.
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Add Eggs: Incorporate the three large eggs into the mixture, adding them one at a time. Be sure to whisk thoroughly after each addition. Finally, stir in the heavy cream until your filling is silky smooth.
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Pour Filling: Carefully transfer your honey filling into the pre-baked crust. For stability, place the pie on a baking sheet before baking, making it easier to handle.
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Bake Pie: Place your pie in the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes. Look for the filling to be just set in the center, with a gentle jiggle. If the crust browns too quickly, tent it with foil.
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Cool: 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 time is essential for the filling to set properly.
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Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle a generous amount of flaky sea salt over the top. This will bring out the sweet and salty balance that characterizes your Salted Honey Pie.
Optional: For an extra touch, garnish with a dollop of whipped cream on the side.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Salted Honey Pie preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the pie crust up to 24 hours in advance. Simply complete the blind baking process, allow it to cool, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain crispness. The filling can also be mixed and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge; just give it a quick whisk before using. When you’re ready to impress your guests, pour the filling into the pre-baked crust and bake as instructed. This way, you can enjoy restaurant-quality results without the last-minute rush!
Salted Honey Pie Variations
Feel free to explore these fun twists that can elevate your Salted Honey Pie experience!
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Maple Twist: Substitute honey with maple syrup for an earthy sweetness that adds a unique flavor profile. It’s a deliciously unexpected option that still captures that sweet nostalgia.
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Zesty Citrus: Add a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to the filling for a refreshing burst of citrus that brightens the creamy custard and balances the sweetness beautifully.
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Nutty Addition: Fold in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling—this will introduce a delightful crunch that complements the silky texture nicely.
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Spiced Delight: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling for a warm, spiced undertone, enhancing the comforting flavor that makes this pie even cozier.
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Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream and use margarine instead of butter for a creamy, dairy-free alternative that doesn’t skimp on taste.
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Chocolate Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the top for an indulgent, gourmet twist that adds a rich flavor dimension.
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Herbal Infusion: Experiment by infusing the cream with a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary during heating. This subtle herby note will astonish your taste buds!
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Savory Salt Finish: For an exciting contrast, use smoked sea salt instead of flaky sea salt as a topping. It’ll impart a wonderful, savory depth to the sweet filling, leaving everyone guessing about that extra layer of flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Salted Honey Pie
Fridge: Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy your frozen Salted Honey Pie, let it thaw in the fridge, then serve it at room temperature. If desired, warm individual slices briefly in the oven at a low temperature.
What to Serve with Salted Honey Pie?
There’s nothing quite like delighting your guests with a delicious pie that complements an array of accompanying dishes.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds brightness and a burst of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the pie.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream provides a lovely creaminess, balancing the pie’s salty-sweet flavor. Consider infusing it with a hint of vanilla or a touch of honey for extra flair.
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Tea or Coffee: Pairing your pie with a robust cup of coffee or fragrant herbal tea enhances its comforting southern charm and allows for a leisurely dessert experience.
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Dark Chocolate Shavings: A sprinkle of chocolate shavings creates a delightful contrast, introducing a touch of bitterness that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the pie.
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Candied Nuts: Crunchy candied pecans or walnuts offer a sweet and salty crunch, making each bite of pie even more irresistible.
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Citrus Salad: A refreshing citrus salad with grapefruit and orange segments helps cleanse the palate between bites while making the whole meal feel light and vibrant.
Elevate your dessert experience by exploring these flavors and textures that beautifully accompany the delightful Salted Honey Pie!
Expert Tips for Salted Honey Pie
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Choose Quality Ingredients: Use pure, high-quality honey for the best flavor in your Salted Honey Pie. It makes a notable difference in the final taste.
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Blind Bake Crust: Never skip the blind baking step! This is crucial to achieving a perfectly crisp pie crust and avoiding sogginess.
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Room-Temperature Eggs: Make sure to use eggs that are at room temperature. This helps the filling mix smoothly and create a velvety texture.
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Don’t Overbake: Monitor the baking closely; your pie should be just set and barely jiggly in the center. Overbaking can lead to a dry filling.
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Cooling Time is Key: Be patient and allow the pie to cool completely for at least 2 hours. This ensures the filling sets properly, making it easier to slice.
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Serve at Room Temperature: For the best flavor experience, serve your Salted Honey Pie at room temperature, allowing the flavors to shine through beautifully.
Salted Honey Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of honey is best for Salted Honey Pie?
Absolutely! For the most delightful flavor, I recommend using wildflower or clover honey. These types have a nice balance of sweetness that complements the pie beautifully. Avoid flavored honeys, as they can overpower the delicate custard.
How should I store my Salted Honey Pie?
To keep your Salted Honey Pie fresh, tightly cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 4 days. This ensures your pie retains its delicious flavors and creamy texture. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best taste.
Can I freeze Salted Honey Pie?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the pie to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It’s best enjoyed within 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and then bring it to room temperature before slicing.
What if my pie crust gets soggy?
Fear not! A soggy crust can dampen the joy of this delicious pie. Always blind bake your crust as per the instructions. If your crust does end up soggy, consider adding a layer of chocolate or a light spread of cream cheese on the bottom before pouring in the filling to create a barrier.
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Yes! To create a dairy-free Salted Honey Pie, substitute the unsalted butter with margarine or coconut oil, and replace the heavy cream with coconut cream. This will still provide that creamy texture you desire while keeping it dairy-free.
Can my pets have a taste of this pie?
While honey is generally safe for dogs, be mindful of the other ingredients in the pie. Ingredients like sugar and chocolate should be avoided for pets. It’s best to enjoy this pie yourself and perhaps share a small spoonful of pure honey with your furry friends instead!
Indulge in Salted Honey Pie: A Sweet Southern Classic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by chilling your pie crust in the refrigerator. Then, line it with foil or parchment paper, add pie weights, and blind bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes. After removing the weights, return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, cornmeal, salt, vinegar or lemon juice, vanilla, and honey until everything is well combined. This mixture should be smooth and creamy, embodying rich flavors.
- Incorporate the three large eggs into the mixture, adding them one at a time. Be sure to whisk thoroughly after each addition. Finally, stir in the heavy cream until your filling is silky smooth.
- Carefully transfer your honey filling into the pre-baked crust. For stability, place the pie on a baking sheet before baking, making it easier to handle.
- Place your pie in the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes. Look for the filling to be just set in the center, with a gentle jiggle. If the crust browns too quickly, tent it with foil.
- 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 time is essential for the filling to set properly.
- Just before serving, sprinkle a generous amount of flaky sea salt over the top. This will bring out the sweet and salty balance that characterizes your Salted Honey Pie.