Southern Buttermilk Pie Recipe

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There’s nothing quite like the comforting, nostalgic flavor of a Southern Buttermilk Pie. With its creamy custard filling, delicate hint of tang, and crisp, golden crust, this dessert has been a beloved staple of Southern gatherings for generations. Buttermilk pie is a true taste of the South, embodying the simplicity and warmth that Southern cuisine is known for. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering or just craving a slice of something sweet, this recipe will bring a little bit of Southern charm right to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Southern Buttermilk Pie is easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for any occasion. You don’t need any fancy ingredients; chances are, you already have most of them in your pantry! Unlike many custard pies, buttermilk pie holds its shape beautifully, giving you that satisfying slice each time. The recipe is quick to prepare and doesn’t require any special techniques, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

Tips for the Perfect Buttermilk Pie

To ensure you get the best texture and flavor for your buttermilk pie, keep these tips in mind:

1. Use Fresh Buttermilk: Fresh buttermilk adds a slight tang and creaminess, which balances the sweetness of the pie. Avoid substitutions like milk with lemon juice, as it won’t have quite the same effect.
2. Room-Temperature Ingredients: For the smoothest filling, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature. This will help them blend better and prevent lumps in your custard.
3. Don’t Overbake: The pie should have a slight jiggle in the center when it’s done. It will continue to set as it cools. Overbaking can lead to a grainy texture, so keep an eye on it in the last few minutes.
4. Use a Pie Shield: Buttermilk pies can sometimes have delicate edges that brown quickly. Using a pie shield (or foil) around the edges can prevent over-browning.
5. Serve at Room Temperature: While you can enjoy this pie warm, it’s traditionally served at room temperature. This allows the custard to firm up, and the flavors develop even more.

Southern Buttermilk Pie Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients:

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Optional: 1/4 tsp freshly grated nutmeg (for a warm, aromatic touch)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and flour. Add the eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Slowly pour in the buttermilk, melted butter, vanilla, and salt. Add nutmeg if desired, and whisk until smooth.
3. Assemble the Pie: Pour the filling into the unbaked pie crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
4. Bake: Place the pie on the middle rack of the oven and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the center has a slight jiggle when gently shaken. You may need to cover the edges with foil or a pie shield halfway through to prevent over-browning.
5. Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool to room temperature before slicing. This allows the custard to set fully for a cleaner slice.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Buttermilk pie is a great make-ahead dessert. It can be made up to a day in advance. Simply cover it and store it at room temperature for up to 1 day or in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze buttermilk pie?
A: Yes, you can freeze buttermilk pie! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Q: Is there a way to make this pie less sweet?
A: If you prefer a less sweet pie, reduce the sugar to 1 cup instead of 1 1/2 cups. This will create a more balanced flavor, letting the buttermilk’s tanginess shine through.

Q: Can I add other flavors to this pie?
A: Yes! Buttermilk pie is versatile. For a unique twist, try adding a splash of lemon juice and a teaspoon of lemon zest for a lemony version, or incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm spice flavor.

Q: Why did my pie turn out runny?
A: A runny pie often results from underbaking. Make sure the pie has a slight jiggle in the center but is set around the edges. The pie will continue to firm up as it cools. Another common issue is inaccurate measurements, so double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy.

A Slice of Southern Tradition

Southern Buttermilk Pie is more than a dessert; it’s a symbol of hospitality and warmth that you can bring to any table. With its simple ingredients and delightful flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Grab a slice, pour a cup of coffee or sweet tea, and savor the sweet and tangy charm of this Southern classic.

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