Advertisement
Late at night, with a faint hum of crickets outside, I stumbled upon a recipe that transports me straight to my Southern roots: Tasty Salted Honey Pie. The allure of this sweet-salty dessert lies in its irresistibly creamy custard filling, enriched with the floral sweetness of honey and enveloped in a flaky, buttery crust. What I adore most is how easily this pie comes together—perfect for the busy home chef looking to impress without the stress. Plus, it’s a delightful canvas for customization, allowing you to experiment with various honey types or even a chocolate drizzle to suit your taste. Curious to taste a slice of this Southern delight? Let’s make it together!
Why is Salted Honey Pie So Irresistible?
Simplicity: This dessert comes together easily, allowing both novice and expert bakers to shine in the kitchen.
Versatile Variations: Choose from different honey types or add a chocolate drizzle to personalize your pie!
Rich, Creamy Filling: The luscious custard blends sweet and salty notes, making it truly unforgettable.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this pie is sure to impress.
Customize with Flair: With dairy-free options and nutty toppings, it caters to various dietary preferences while still being indulgent.
Serve it warm or chilled, and enjoy the rave reviews from family and friends who will keep coming back for more!
Tasty Salted Honey Pie Ingredients
Get ready to create this mouthwatering Southern delight!
Advertisement
For the Pie Crust
• 9-inch Pie Crust – Use homemade for a flaky texture or store-bought for convenience.
For the Filling
• ½ cup Unsalted Butter – Opt for high-quality butter to enhance the overall richness.
• ¾ cup Granulated Sugar – Sweeten to your taste; reduce for a less indulgent treat.
• ¼ cup Cornmeal – Helps set the filling without altering the smooth texture.
• ¼ teaspoon Salt – Use kosher or sea salt to elevate the flavors beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon Vinegar or Lemon Juice – Fresh lemon juice adds a bright tartness; both work well.
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract – This enhances the flavor and complements the honey perfectly.
• ½ cup Honey – The star of the show, choose wildflower or clover honey for the best floral notes.
• 3 large Eggs – Room temperature eggs ensure a smoother custard consistency.
• ½ cup Heavy Cream – Adds a luxurious creamy touch; substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
For the Topping
• Flaky Sea Salt (to taste) – A sprinkle on top before serving highlights the sweet-salty experience.
Now you’re ready to whip up your Tasty Salted Honey Pie!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tasty Salted Honey Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pie crust and fit it snugly into a 9-inch pie pan, ensuring there are no gaps. Blind bake the crust for 12-15 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. This step is essential for a crisp base, so keep an eye on it. Once done, let the crust cool completely before adding the filling.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the cornmeal, salt, vinegar or lemon juice, vanilla extract, and honey, stirring until you achieve a well-combined mixture. The honey’s floral notes should shine through as you mix, making it a delightful start to your Tasty Salted Honey Pie filling.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs
Crack the room temperature eggs into the honey mixture one at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition to create a smooth custard. Once all eggs are mixed in, pour in the heavy cream and continue whisking until the filling is glossy and homogenous. This incorporates air, giving your custard a light texture, perfect for the Tasty Salted Honey Pie.
Step 4: Assemble & Bake
Carefully pour the creamy filling into the cooled pie crust, spreading it evenly. Place the pie in the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the center should jiggle slightly when you give it a little shake. This visual cue signals the perfect custard consistency that defines your Tasty Salted Honey Pie.
Step 5: Cool
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and set it on a wire rack to cool completely, about 2 hours. Allowing it to reach room temperature is vital for the filling to set properly. This patience pays off, ensuring clean slices and a beautiful presentation when you serve your Tasty Salted Honey Pie.
Step 6: Serve
Before serving, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the cooling pie for that perfect sweet-salty touch. Slice into wedges and feel free to pair with lightly sweetened whipped cream or fresh berries for an added flair. Now it’s time to enjoy the delightful flavors of your homemade Tasty Salted Honey Pie!
What to Serve with Tasty Salted Honey Pie
Indulge your senses by complementing this delightful Southern dessert with the perfect pairings for a complete dining experience.
- Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream: A fluffy dollop adds a creamy texture that balances the pie’s rich custard.
- Fresh Berries: Serve with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries to introduce a tangy freshness that cuts through the sweetness further elevating the flavor.
- Nuts & Seeds: Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkle on top provide a delightful crunch and enhance the nutty tones in the filling. They add a pleasing contrast to the creamy pie.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of brewed coffee or herbal tea complements the pie’s sweet-salty notes, making every bite feel more indulgent.
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A scoop of this classic dessert adds warmth and richness, while its creamy texture pairs beautifully with the pie’s silky custard.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For the chocolate lovers, a light drizzle adds decadent richness to the pie, seamlessly harmonizing with the sweet and salty flavors.
- Coconut Cream: A dollop of this dairy-free alternative not only aligns with the pie’s character but also lends a tropical vibe that’s impossible to resist.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling a bit over the pie before serving amps up the indulgence, providing an irresistible finish that kids and adults alike will adore.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Tasty Salted Honey Pie ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes on busy days! You can make the pie crust up to 3 days in advance; simply blind bake it, let it cool completely, then store it tightly covered at room temperature. The filling can also be prepared 24 hours ahead; combine all ingredients except the eggs and cream, refrigerate, and add them just before baking for the freshest taste. For the best quality, always allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack after baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply sprinkle with flaky sea salt and enjoy the same delightful flavors, made easier for you!
How to Store and Freeze Tasty Salted Honey Pie
Fridge: Keep your Tasty Salted Honey Pie tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature for the best experience.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in foil. This keeps them fresh for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Room Temperature: Allow the pie to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for easier slicing and enhanced flavor.
Reheating: If desired, reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, making sure not to overheat.
Expert Tips for Tasty Salted Honey Pie
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and cream, are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother custard and better blending in your Tasty Salted Honey Pie.
- Blind Bake Wisely: Don’t skip blind baking the crust—it prevents a soggy bottom! Keep an eye on the color, aiming for a light golden hue.
- Cool Completely: Allow the pie to cool completely for at least 2 hours before slicing. This patience is key for a clean cut and the best texture.
- Watch the Jiggle: When baking, look for a slight jiggle in the center of the pie. This ensures the filling is set correctly without over-baking.
- Choose Quality Honey: Opt for high-quality honey to enhance the flavor profile of your dessert. The better the honey, the richer the taste of your Tasty Salted Honey Pie!
Tasty Salted Honey Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Salted Honey Pie; the options are endless and deliciously inviting!
-
Honey Type Swap: Try orange blossom or lavender honey for a floral twist. Each variety will surely enhance the flavor profile of your pie.
-
Citrus Zing: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest for a refreshing brightness that balances the sweetness beautifully. It’s a small change, but it makes a significant difference!
-
Chocolate Indulgence: Top with a chocolate drizzle after cooling for a luxurious touch. Combine the sweet and salty components for an utterly decadent dessert experience.
-
Nutty Crunch: Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top provide delightful texture and contrast. Each bite becomes a delightful symphony of flavors and textures!
-
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream to create a rich and creamy dairy-free version. This twist caters beautifully to those with dietary restrictions.
-
Warm Spices: Stir in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth and depth. These spices add a lovely aromatic quality, enhancing the overall indulgence of your pie.
-
Savory Element: Try adding a pinch of smoked sea salt on top for a unique, savory twist. The smoky notes complement the sweetness, creating an unexpected yet delightful flavor harmony.
-
Fruity Fusion: Consider adding a layer of fresh fruit preserves on the bottom of the crust before pouring in the filling. It adds an extra layer of fruitiness that complements the honey beautifully.
Explore these variations and let your imagination run wild! You might just invent the next beloved family classic. If you’re intrigued by other sweet treats, don’t forget to check out Candy Cookie Pie or try the delightful flavors of Baked Hot Honey for your next meal!
Tasty Salted Honey Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right honey for my Salted Honey Pie?
Absolutely! The type of honey you select can significantly influence the flavor of your pie. I recommend using wildflower or clover honey for their balanced sweetness and floral notes. If you want to experiment, try orange blossom or rosemary honey for unique flavors that can elevate your Tasty Salted Honey Pie experience!
How should I store my Salted Honey Pie?
To keep your Tasty Salted Honey Pie fresh, store it tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This way, you can enjoy those delicious flavors for a little longer! If you prefer it at room temperature, let the pie sit out for about 30 minutes before serving to enhance its taste.
Can I freeze Salted Honey Pie, and if so, how?
Very much so! For freezing, wrap individual slices of the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices overnight in the fridge, and they’ll be perfect for serving!
What if my pie filling doesn’t set properly?
If your pie seems too runny after baking, it might be due to under-baking or not allowing it to cool long enough. Always look for a slight jiggle in the center when baking, as this means it’s set perfectly. If it still doesn’t set as expected, don’t worry! You can try returning it to the oven for a few more minutes. Just keep an eye on it to avoid over-baking.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream, which gives a lovely richness while still aligning with your dietary needs. Also, ensure that your pie crust does not contain butter if making a dairy-free adaptation. Enjoy making a Tasty Salted Honey Pie that everyone can savor!
Delightful Tasty Salted Honey Pie to Savor at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pie crust and fit it snugly into a 9-inch pie pan, ensuring there are no gaps. Blind bake the crust for 12-15 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Let the crust cool completely.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the cornmeal, salt, vinegar or lemon juice, vanilla extract, and honey, stirring until well-combined.
- Crack the room temperature eggs into the honey mixture one at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition. Once all eggs are mixed in, pour in the heavy cream and continue whisking until glossy and homogenous.
- Carefully pour the creamy filling into the cooled pie crust. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes. The center should jiggle slightly when you give it a little shake.
- Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and set it on a wire rack to cool completely, about 2 hours.
- Before serving, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the cooling pie. Slice into wedges and serve with whipped cream or fresh berries.
