Buttermilk pie is a beloved Southern classic that has stood the test of time. Known for its creamy, custard-like filling and subtly tangy flavor, it’s the kind of dessert that warms your soul with every bite. With just a few simple ingredients, this pie offers an easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual family dinner, a holiday gathering, or a weekend indulgence.
In this article, we’ll guide you through how to make a rich, smooth buttermilk pie from scratch. With its buttery crust and lightly sweetened filling, this pie is the epitome of Southern comfort. Whether you’ve made buttermilk pie before or you’re trying it for the first time, this recipe will help you master it effortlessly.
Why Buttermilk Pie?
Buttermilk pie is a dessert that has been passed down through generations, and for good reason. The filling is made with simple pantry staples like buttermilk, sugar, and eggs, resulting in a custard-like texture that’s irresistibly smooth and creamy. The slight tang from the buttermilk balances the sweetness perfectly, making each bite rich but not overwhelming.
One of the best things about buttermilk pie is how easy it is to prepare. With minimal prep time and basic ingredients, you can whip up a homemade pie that looks impressive and tastes even better.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this classic buttermilk pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 unbaked pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for extra tang)
- Pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s walk through the process of making a traditional buttermilk pie that’s smooth, creamy, and full of flavor.
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
If you’re using a store-bought crust, follow the package instructions to prepare it. For those who prefer homemade, here’s a quick method:
- Roll out your pie dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
- Gently press the dough into the dish, trimming any excess overhang. You can crimp the edges for a decorative touch if you like.
- Set the crust aside in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
Prepping the crust first helps ensure it’s ready to go once the filling is mixed.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the sugar, flour, and salt. The flour acts as a thickening agent, helping the filling achieve the perfect custard consistency. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well combined.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and lemon juice (if using). The lemon juice is optional but adds a slight tang that complements the sweetness of the pie.
Make sure the melted butter has cooled slightly before adding it to avoid cooking the eggs.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. The mixture should be smooth and creamy with no flour clumps.
The combination of buttermilk, eggs, and sugar will create a silky custard-like filling that’s the heart of this pie.
Step 5: Pour the Filling into the Crust
Once your filling is mixed, pour it into the prepared pie crust. Be careful not to overfill the crust, as the filling will puff up slightly while baking.
If you have extra filling, you can save it for mini pies or use it in a smaller dish for a custard-like dessert.
Step 6: Bake the Pie
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie on the center rack and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and a light golden brown on top. The center should still have a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pie, but it will firm up as it cools.
If the edges of the crust begin to brown too quickly, you can cover them with foil or use a pie shield to prevent burning.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the buttermilk pie to cool completely before slicing, as this helps the filling set properly. Once cooled, you can dust the top with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Serve the pie at room temperature or chilled, depending on your preference. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Tips for the Best Buttermilk Pie
- Room temperature eggs: Using room temperature eggs helps the filling mix more evenly, creating a smoother custard.
- Cool the butter: Make sure your melted butter has cooled slightly before adding it to the eggs to prevent them from scrambling.
- Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the pie as it bakes. You want the filling to be set but still slightly wobbly in the center to ensure it stays creamy.
Variations on Buttermilk Pie
While the classic buttermilk pie is delicious as-is, there are a few variations you can try to switch things up:
- Coconut Buttermilk Pie: Add a cup of shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical twist.
- Lemon Buttermilk Pie: Increase the lemon juice to 2 tablespoons for a more pronounced citrus flavor.
- Buttermilk Chess Pie: Add a tablespoon of cornmeal to the filling for a slightly thicker, more textured pie similar to chess pie.
Why Buttermilk Pie Is a Southern Classic
Buttermilk pie has deep roots in Southern cooking, where simple ingredients are transformed into something extraordinary. Historically, buttermilk was a kitchen staple, and this pie was a way to use it in a dessert that could be made quickly with whatever ingredients were on hand. Today, buttermilk pie is cherished for its rich, custardy filling and perfectly balanced sweet-tart flavor.
Whether served at a holiday gathering or enjoyed as a casual dessert, this pie brings comfort and nostalgia to the table.
Conclusion: A Southern Favorite You’ll Want to Make Again and Again
Buttermilk pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a slice of Southern tradition that’s easy to make and irresistibly delicious. With its creamy custard filling and buttery crust, it’s the kind of treat that brings everyone back to the table for seconds. Whether you’re new to buttermilk pie or you’ve grown up with it, this recipe is a keeper.
So next time you’re in the mood for something sweet, give this classic buttermilk pie a try. It’s simple, satisfying, and sure to become a staple in your dessert rotation.
source of the picture :thepioneerwoman.com
