Classic Buttermilk Pie: A Southern Comfort Dessert

Experience the rich, creamy indulgence of a Southern buttermilk pie, a true classic that never goes out of style. With a flaky crust and a silky custard filling, this pie combines just the right amount of sweetness and tanginess. It’s easy to make, versatile for any occasion, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 3-4 tablespoons ice water

Shortcut: Use a store-bought 9-inch pie crust for convenience.

For the Buttermilk Filling:

• 1½ cups (360ml) fresh buttermilk
• 1½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg or cinnamon (optional, for a hint of warmth)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt.
2. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough just comes together.
4. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
5. Roll the chilled dough out on a floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim and crimp the edges, then refrigerate while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 3: Mix the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, sugar, melted butter, eggs, flour, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust.

Step 4: Bake the Pie

1. Bake the pie for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set but still has a slight jiggle in the center.
2. If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with foil or a pie shield during baking.

Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to enhance its flavor and texture. Add a light sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon on top for an extra touch.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Buttermilk: The tanginess of fresh buttermilk is key to this pie’s distinctive flavor.
2. Chill the Dough: A cold crust ensures a flaky texture and prevents shrinking during baking.
3. Don’t Overbake: Remove the pie when the center is slightly wobbly—it will firm up as it cools.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, Custard-Like Filling: The creamy texture is perfectly complemented by the slight tang of buttermilk.
• Golden, Flaky Crust: The buttery crust adds the perfect crunch to every bite.
• Effortless Elegance: This simple yet sophisticated dessert is suitable for holidays, potlucks, or casual dinners.

Serve and Enjoy!

Southern buttermilk pie is a classic dessert that’s loved by all. Serve it as-is, or add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. Try this easy recipe today and share your thoughts in the comments below. Happy baking!