Name: Indulge in Salted Honey Pie: A Sweet Southern Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 200 min
Ingredients: 1 9-inch Pie Crust (homemade or store-bought; blind bake it for a perfectly crisp foundation.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (melted and slightly cooled); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar (sweetens the custard); 1/4 cup Cornmeal (fine grind); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (heightens the flavors); 1 tablespoon White Vinegar or Lemon Juice (brightens the flavor); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (infuses the custard with sweetness); 1/2 cup Honey (preferably wildflower or clover); 3 large Eggs (binds the filling); 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (contributes to a silky finish); Flaky Sea Salt (to sprinkle on top; enhances the sweet-salty profile)

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As I was savoring dessert on my porch, the warm breeze carried with it the sweet scent of honey. It struck me how perfectly beautiful and comforting a slice of Salted Honey Pie can be, blending the rich flavors of a silky custard with a hint of flaky sea salt. This classic Southern dessert couldn’t be easier to prepare, making it an instant favorite for both holiday celebrations and quiet weeknight dinners. The contrast of sweet and salty is undeniably irresistible, and with just a few pantry staples, you can impress anyone with this delightful treat. How about surprising your loved ones with a slice of homemade goodness that takes only moments to whip up? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Is Salted Honey Pie So Addictive?

Elevating Flavor: The unexpected blend of sweet honey and flaky sea salt creates a taste that will keep you coming back for more.

Simple to Make: This recipe is user-friendly, requiring just a handful of pantry staples—perfect for those who want homemade dessert without a fuss.

Impressive Texture: The silky custard filling perfectly contrasts the flaky pie crust, offering a delightful bite every time.

Versatile Delight: Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a holiday feast, this pie is sure to be the star of any table.

Crowd-Pleasing Finish: Serve it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra touch—an impressive treat that’s sure to wow your guests!

Salted Honey Pie Ingredients

• Whip up a delightful Salted Honey Pie with these simple ingredients!

For the Pie Crust
• 9-inch pie crust – homemade or store-bought; blind bake it for a perfectly crisp foundation.

For the Custard Filling
• Unsalted Butter – ½ cup, melted and slightly cooled, adds richness and moisture to the filling.
• Granulated Sugar – ¾ cup; sweetens the custard and holds all those flavors together.
• Cornmeal – ¼ cup, fine grind; gives structure to the pie while maintaining a smooth texture.
• Salt – ¼ teaspoon; heightens the flavors and enhances the sweet-salty experience.
• White Vinegar or Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon; brightens the overall flavor profile.
• Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon; infuses the custard with aromatic sweetness.
• Honey – ½ cup, preferably wildflower or clover; this is the star ingredient that brings sweet floral notes.
• Large Eggs – 3; binds the filling together and adds richness for that creamy texture.
• Heavy Cream – ½ cup; contributes a luxuriously silky finish.

For the Topping
• Flaky Sea Salt – to sprinkle on top; it enhances the sweet-salty profile and adds a delightful crunch!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Honey Pie

Step 1: Blind Bake the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using homemade pie dough, roll it out into a 9-inch pie dish and flute the edges. Chill the crust for 30 minutes, then line it with foil or parchment paper and fill with baking weights. Bake for 12-15 minutes until set, then remove the weights, return to the oven, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden. Allow the crust to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted and slightly cooled unsalted butter, granulated sugar, cornmeal, salt, vinegar or lemon juice, vanilla extract, and honey. Whisk the mixture vigorously for about 2 minutes, until smooth and well combined. This forms the luscious base for your Salted Honey Pie custard, ensuring every bite is filled with rich flavor.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs
Next, add the three large eggs to your mixture, one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition to ensure they are fully integrated. After the eggs, gently stir in the heavy cream, mixing until the filling is completely smooth and creamy. This step adds a velvety texture to your custard, contributing to the pie’s delightful mouthfeel.

Step 4: Fill and Bake
Pour the custard filling into the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any spills and bake in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes. Check for doneness; the center should be slightly jiggly but set. If the crust edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil for the latter part of baking.

Step 5: Cool
Once baked, carefully remove the Salted Honey Pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This cooling process allows the filling to set fully and helps develop the rich flavors. Avoid slicing until it’s adequately cooled to maintain its structure.

Step 6: Serve
Before serving, sprinkle a generous pinch of flaky sea salt over the top to enhance the sweet and salty profile of the pie. Slice the Salted Honey Pie and pair it with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added treat. Indulge in each silky slice of this delightful Southern dessert.

Storage Tips for Salted Honey Pie

Fridge: Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For a firmer texture, serve chilled or allow to come to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: Wrap the pie securely in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: If you prefer your pie warm, gently heat individual slices in the microwave or a low oven. This will help preserve the custard’s smooth texture while enhancing the flavors of your Salted Honey Pie.

Make Ahead Options

Salted Honey Pie is a fantastic dish for meal prep that can save you time during busy weeks! You can prepare the pie crust up to 3 days in advance—blind bake it, then wrap it tightly and refrigerate until you are ready to fill it. The custard filling can also be mixed up to 24 hours before baking; just refrigerate it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply pour the chilled filling into the crust and bake as directed. To maintain that delightful texture and flavor, ensure the pie cools completely on a wire rack before slicing. This way, your Salted Honey Pie will be just as delicious as if made fresh!

What to Serve with Salted Honey Pie

Nothing complements the sweet and salty symphony of this delightful pie quite like a thoughtful side or drink, enhancing the whole experience.

Whipped Cream: Light and airy, freshly whipped cream adds a dreamy contrast to the rich custard filling of the pie.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries lend a vibrant tartness that perfectly balances the sweetness of the pie.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully upon warm pie, creating a luscious texture that’s hard to resist.
Coffee: A warm cup of coffee enhances the sweet notes in the pie, making each bite even more gratifying.
Lemon Sorbet: The refreshing citrus notes of lemon sorbet serve as a bright and zesty counterpoint to the rich pie, cleansing the palate.
Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top for a delightful crunch that adds texture and a nutty depth of flavor.
Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly complements the dessert’s sweet-salty characteristics, making it feel like a celebration with every bite.
Dark Chocolate Shavings: Adding dark chocolate shavings on top provides a rich, bitter contrast, balancing the sweetness joyfully.

Expert Tips for Salted Honey Pie

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and heavy cream are at room temperature for a smoother custard. This helps the filling mix together seamlessly.
Blind Bake Properly: Don’t skip the blind baking step! It’s crucial for achieving a crisp crust that holds up against the creamy filling of your Salted Honey Pie.
Cool Completely: Allow the pie to cool fully on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing. This step is key to maintaining the pie’s structure and velvety texture.
Quality Honey Matters: Choose high-quality honey, such as wildflower or clover, to enhance the flavor profile. Cheaper honey can alter the taste significantly.
Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the pie as it bakes. Cover with foil if the crust starts to brown too quickly, ensuring a beautiful, golden finish without burning.

Salted Honey Pie: Tasty Variations

Feel the freedom to play around with this delicious recipe, making it uniquely yours with these fun adaptations!

Different Honey: Swap in different types of honey, like orange blossom or buckwheat, to change the flavor profile. Each honey brings its own character.
Gluten-Free Crust: Use a gluten-free pie crust made from almond or oat flour for a twist suited for friends with gluten sensitivities. It’s still flaky and delightful!
Coconut Twist: For a tropical vibe, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream. The addition lends a subtle coconut flavor that pairs beautifully with honey.
Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for warmth and an additional layer of complexity in flavor. It feels like a hug from the inside!
Maple Syrup Switch: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a richer, more robust sweetness. It pairs perfectly with the creamy custard for an indulgent experience.
Savory Touch: Fold in a small amount of finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an unexpected and delightful culinary surprise. Your guests won’t see it coming!
Fruit Infusion: Top your pie with fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or blueberries, right before serving for an extra burst of freshness. It adds a beautiful color contrast!
Nutty Crunch: Enhance the texture by sprinkling finely chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, on top of the custard before baking. It introduces a lovely crunch that complements the smooth filling.

Feel free to explore these variations to personalize your Salted Honey Pie, or get inspired by previous successes! For more pie ideas, check out our Classic Southern Pecan Pie for another delightful dessert.

Salted Honey Pie Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best honey for my Salted Honey Pie?
Absolutely! Opt for high-quality honeys like wildflower or clover, as they provide a more robust flavor profile that enhances your pie. When shopping, look for honey that’s labeled as pure, with minimal processing. Avoid blends or flavored options, as these can significantly alter the taste of your custard.

What’s the best way to store my Salted Honey Pie?
To keep your pie fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Make sure to allow it to come to room temperature before serving, or serve it chilled for a firmer texture. If you find yourself with leftovers, simply enjoy them over the next few days—it’s just as tasty!

Can I freeze Salted Honey Pie?
Yes, you can! For freezing, wrap your pie securely in plastic wrap, then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge. For best results, reheat individual slices gently in the microwave or a low oven to preserve that smooth custard texture.

What if my custard filling isn’t setting properly during baking?
Very! If your custard isn’t setting as it bakes, it may need a bit more time. Keep an eye on it, and if it’s browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil to prevent burning. The pie is ready when the center is slightly jiggly but not liquid. Remember, allowing it to cool fully on a wire rack after baking helps it set perfectly.

Are there any dietary considerations for Salted Honey Pie?
Indeed! If you need a dairy-free option, feel free to substitute plant-based butter and coconut cream. Keep in mind that using different sugars, like maple syrup, can also modify the texture slightly. For those concerned about allergies, check for ingredients like eggs and nuts based on your needs.

How long can I keep leftover slices?
Leftover slices of Salted Honey Pie can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored properly. Just make sure to cover them well to prevent drying out. You can enjoy them cold, or gently warm them for a comforting dessert experience. It’s a sweet treat that keeps on giving!