Buttermilk pie brings the comfort of slow summer afternoons, with a flaky golden crust holding a sweet, tangy custard in every bite. Velvety buttermilk, fresh eggs, melted butter, and pure vanilla bake into a gently set filling with a light bronze top and a soft whisper of nutmeg. Simple and classic, it turns your kitchen into a cozy bakery without any fuss. Serve it warm with whipped cream or chilled with fresh berries for a slice of Southern style comfort that feels like a hug.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Buttermilk Pie
- It’s a creamy, dreamy dessert that melts in your mouth.
- Simple ingredients make it a breeze to whip up.
- Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to potlucks.
- It’s a nostalgic taste of Southern tradition.
- Customizable with your favorite spices or toppings!
Buttermilk Pie
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your pie bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden.
- Step 2: Place the unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie plate and set it aside. Make sure it’s nice and snug in the plate!
- Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt. This will be the sweet base of your filling.
- Step 4: Add the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You’re building a lovely texture!
- Step 5: Stir in the melted butter, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined. This is where the magic happens!
- Step 6: Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust. Make sure it’s evenly distributed for a beautiful bake.
- Step 7: If desired, sprinkle a light dusting of nutmeg on top. It adds a lovely aroma and flavor!
- Step 8: Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- Step 9: Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Patience is key for the best flavor!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 |
| Fat | 15g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbs | 40g |
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you will need to make a delicious Buttermilk Pie!
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust – your favorite pastry or homemade
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar – for sweetness
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – helps to thicken the filling
- 2 large eggs – binds the ingredients
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter – melted and slightly cooled
- 1 cup buttermilk – gives the pie its creamy texture
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – for added flavor
- pinch of salt – enhances sweetness
- optional ground nutmeg – for topping, a dash for flavor
How to Make Buttermilk Pie
This delightful Buttermilk Pie is a classic Southern dessert that’s creamy, sweet, and oh-so-easy to make! With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a cooking time of 45–50 minutes, you’ll have a delicious treat ready to impress your family and friends. Allow it to cool completely for the best flavor and texture before serving.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your pie bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden.
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust
Place the unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie plate and set it aside. Make sure it’s nice and snug in the plate!
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt. This will be the sweet base of your filling.
Step 4: Add the Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You’re building a lovely texture!
Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
Stir in the melted butter, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined. This is where the magic happens!
Step 6: Fill the Pie Crust
Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust. Make sure it’s evenly distributed for a beautiful bake.
Step 7: Add Nutmeg (Optional)
If desired, sprinkle a light dusting of nutmeg on top. It adds a lovely aroma and flavor!
Step 8: Bake the Pie
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Patience is key for the best flavor!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Dessert |
| Cuisine | Southern |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 50 minutes |
| Extra Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 65 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 8 |
| Best Served | Chilled or at room temperature |
Pro Tips for Making Buttermilk Pie
- Use fresh buttermilk for the best flavor.
- Let the pie cool completely before slicing for cleaner pieces.
- Experiment with adding a pinch of nutmeg for a warm spice note.
- For a richer taste, use whole milk instead of low-fat.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess.
How to Serve this Buttermilk Pie
- Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
- Pair with fresh berries for a burst of flavor.
- Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce for extra sweetness.
- Enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combo.
- Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm touch.
- Serve alongside a cup of coffee or herbal tea for a cozy treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can make this Buttermilk Pie ahead and store it easily:
Storing Buttermilk Pie Leftovers
- Cool the pie completely before storing.
- Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Buttermilk Pie
- Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Buttermilk Pie
- Thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
- Serve warm for the best texture and taste.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What’s the difference between a chess pie and a buttermilk pie?
Chess pie and buttermilk pie are similar in that they both have a custard-like filling, but they differ in flavor and texture. Chess pie typically includes cornmeal, which gives it a slightly thicker consistency, while buttermilk pie is creamier and has a tangy flavor from the buttermilk. Both are delicious Southern desserts, but if you prefer a smoother texture, buttermilk pie is the way to go!
2. What was Bill Clinton’s favorite pie?
Bill Clinton famously declared that his favorite pie is pecan pie. However, buttermilk pie is also a beloved Southern dessert that many enjoy, and it has a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate classic Southern cooking. If you’re looking to impress with a dessert reminiscent of Southern charm, buttermilk pie is a fantastic choice!
3. Are custard pie and buttermilk pie the same?
While both custard pie and buttermilk pie feature a creamy filling, they are not the same. Custard pie can be made with various types of milk or cream, while buttermilk pie specifically uses buttermilk, which gives it a unique tangy flavor. The texture of buttermilk pie is also typically lighter and fluffier compared to traditional custard pies. If you love custard, you’ll definitely enjoy the delightful twist that buttermilk brings!
4. What is in a buttermilk pie?
A classic buttermilk pie is made with simple ingredients: buttermilk, sugar, eggs, butter, vanilla extract, and a hint of nutmeg or lemon zest for flavor. The combination creates a rich, creamy filling that is baked in a pie crust until set. It’s a wonderfully easy dessert that highlights the tangy flavor of buttermilk, making it a favorite in many Southern households!
Final Thoughts
Buttermilk Pie is a delightful treat that brings a taste of the South right to your kitchen! With its creamy texture and sweet, tangy flavor, this pie is not just easy to make but also incredibly rewarding. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy every bite of this classic dessert. Happy baking!