Buttermilk Pie Recipe: A Timeless Southern Classic

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s simple, delicious, and oozing with Southern charm, buttermilk pie is the perfect choice. This creamy custard pie, made with tangy buttermilk and a few basic pantry ingredients, has been a staple in Southern kitchens for generations. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the recipe, provide tips for making the perfect buttermilk pie, and explore some variations to try.

Ingredients for Buttermilk Pie

The secret to a perfectly creamy buttermilk pie lies in the simple, everyday ingredients that work together to create a rich and tangy filling. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 stick of unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup full-fat buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Dash of ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust

For more Southern-inspired desserts, try Kentucky Butter Cake, another beloved classic that’s rich and buttery.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Buttermilk Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Stir in the flour, followed by the buttermilk and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well-combined.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust

• Roll out your pie dough (or use a store-bought crust for convenience) and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim and crimp the edges as desired.
• Pour the buttermilk mixture into the unbaked pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula if needed.

Step 3: Bake the Pie

• Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until the center is set and a light golden brown.
• To prevent the edges of the crust from over-browning, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie crust shield after the first 20 minutes of baking.

Tip: You can also try No Peek Beef Tips for a savory dish to balance out the sweet buttermilk pie.

Tips for the Perfect Buttermilk Pie

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth, even filling.
• Avoid Overbaking: The center should still have a slight jiggle when done. Overbaking can lead to a dry pie.
• Nutmeg or Cinnamon: A dash of nutmeg or cinnamon can add a nice warm flavor to the pie if you’re looking for something extra.

Variations on Buttermilk Pie

If you’re feeling adventurous, here are a few fun variations on the classic buttermilk pie recipe:

• Citrus Buttermilk Pie: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the filling for a bright, tangy twist.
• Coconut Buttermilk Pie: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical take on this Southern favorite.
• Chocolate Buttermilk Pie: Melt 1/2 cup of chocolate chips and mix it into the filling for a rich, chocolatey version.

Nutritional Information and Healthier Alternatives

Estimated Nutrition Per Slice:

• Calories: 380-420
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 5g

Healthier Alternatives:

• Low-Sugar Version: Replace some or all of the sugar with a sugar substitute like Stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
• Lighter Pie Crust: Use a whole-wheat pie crust or reduce the butter in the crust for a lighter option.
• Lower Fat: Substitute half of the butter with Greek yogurt for a healthier, yet still creamy, filling.

If you’re looking for more ways to lighten up your cooking, check out Crockpot Potato Soup with Hashbrowns for a comforting yet lightened soup recipe.

Storing and Serving Buttermilk Pie

• Storing: Store the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Buttermilk pie tastes even better chilled, so feel free to make it a day ahead of time.
• Freezing: You can freeze buttermilk pie for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve buttermilk pie at room temperature or chilled. It pairs beautifully with whipped cream or fresh berries for an added touch of sweetness and texture.

For more make-ahead desserts, try Strawberry Freezer Pie, a simple and refreshing no-bake option.

FAQs About Buttermilk Pie

Q: Does buttermilk pie need to be refrigerated?
Yes, because it contains dairy, buttermilk pie should be stored in the refrigerator.

Q: What does buttermilk pie taste like?
Buttermilk pie has a tangy, sweet flavor, similar to custard pie, but with a distinct tartness from the buttermilk.

Q: Can I make buttermilk pie without a crust?
Yes, a crustless version can be made by pouring the filling into a greased pie dish and baking as usual.

Q: What is the difference between buttermilk pie and chess pie?
The main difference is that chess pie typically contains cornmeal, giving it a thicker texture, while buttermilk pie is smoother and more custard-like.

Internal Linking Opportunities

• Kentucky Butter Cake: Another Southern dessert that pairs well with a slice of buttermilk pie.
• No Peek Beef Tips: For a savory dish that complements the sweetness of buttermilk pie.
• Strawberry Freezer Pie: A refreshing dessert to contrast the rich creaminess of buttermilk pie.