Buttermilk Pie Recipe

Buttermilk pie recipe is a timeless Southern dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. With its rich, custard-like texture and delicate tang, it’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Originating in the South, this pie became popular during the early 19th century when buttermilk was a common byproduct of churning butter. This pie has stayed a staple at Southern family tables and celebrations, thanks to its simple ingredients, delicious flavor, and nostalgic appeal.

In this article, we’ll walk you through an easy-to-follow recipe for making buttermilk pie at home, complete with a rich history, ingredient list, cooking instructions, and helpful tips.

History of Buttermilk Pie Recipe:

Buttermilk pie dates back to the early American settlers, particularly in the Southern United States. Early recipes used leftover buttermilk from the butter-churning process, making it an economical choice for home bakers. This custard-based pie quickly gained popularity due to its ability to be made with pantry staples, and it’s often considered a “comfort food” in the South.

Over time, variations of the recipe have appeared, with many cooks adding their twist, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, while still preserving the traditional elements of the dessert. It’s often seen on holiday tables, family gatherings, and potlucks.

Buttermilk Pie Recipe

Pinklady

Buttermilk pie dates back to the early American settlers, particularly in the Southern United States. Early recipes used leftover buttermilk from the butter-churning process, making it an economical choice for home bakers.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine Southern United States

Servings 8 Slices

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

• 9-inch pie pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 ½ cups buttermilk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

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Instructions

 

• Preheat the Oven

  Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the pie will bake evenly and cook through.
• Prepare the Pie Crust

  If you are using a store-bought pie crust, place it into your 9-inch pie pan. If you’re making your own pie crust, roll it out and fit it into the pie pan. You can also pre-bake the crust for 5–7 minutes if you like a crispier base, but this step is optional.
• Mix the Filling

  In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, flour, vanilla extract, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined. Once that’s done, add the buttermilk and melted butter to the mixture. Continue to whisk until the batter is smooth and uniform.
• Add the Nutmeg (Optional)

  If you want to add a bit of spice to your buttermilk pie, sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg. It enhances the flavor and adds a warm, aromatic touch to the pie.
• Pour the Filling into the Crust

  Carefully pour the buttermilk filling into the prepared pie crust. Be sure to do this slowly to avoid spilling.
• Bake the Pie

  Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes. The pie is done when the center is set but slightly jiggles when shaken. It should turn golden brown around the edges. If the crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil and continue baking.
• Cool and Serve

  Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. The pie will firm up as it cools. Once cooled, slice, serve, and enjoy!

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Keyword Buttermilk Pie Recipe

Similar Recipes to Buttermilk Pie:

If you love buttermilk pie, you may also enjoy these similar desserts:

– Custard Pie – A rich, smooth custard filling baked in a pie crust, similar to buttermilk pie but without the tanginess of buttermilk.
– Chess Pie – Another Southern classic, chess pie uses a cornmeal-thickened filling that’s sweet and dense, sometimes flavored with lemon or vinegar.
– Lemon Buttermilk Pie – A twist on the classic, this version adds a burst of fresh lemon juice for a zesty flavor that complements the creamy filling.
– Coconut Cream Pie – A creamy pie filled with coconut-flavored custard and topped with whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Buttermilk Pie Recipe:

1. Can I make buttermilk pie ahead of time?

Yes! Buttermilk pie can be made a day ahead. Simply bake it, allow it to cool, then store it in the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

2. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Buttermilk is key to the texture and flavor of this pie, so it’s not recommended to substitute it with regular milk. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk, and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

3. Can I freeze buttermilk pie?

Yes, you can freeze buttermilk pie. Once it’s fully cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

4. Can I add other flavors to the buttermilk pie?

Absolutely! You can add flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a bit of lemon zest to give the pie a unique twist.

5. What if my buttermilk pie is too runny after baking?

If your pie is too runny, it may need more baking time. Bake it for an additional 5–10 minutes and check it again. The center should set but still have a slight jiggle.

6. Can I use a graham cracker crust instead of a traditional pie crust?

Yes, a graham cracker crust can be a delicious alternative. Simply press the crumbs into the pie pan and bake it for 5–7 minutes before filling it with the buttermilk mixture.

7. Is buttermilk pie gluten-free?

The traditional recipe contains all-purpose flour, which is not gluten-free. To make it gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

8. What can I serve with buttermilk pie?

Buttermilk pie is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries.

9. Can I make mini buttermilk pies?

Yes! You can make individual mini pies using a muffin tin. Reduce the baking time to 20–25 minutes for mini pies.

Conclusion:

Buttermilk pie is an easy and satisfying dessert that can be made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving a slice of Southern comfort, this pie is sure to delight you. Its creamy filling and delicate sweetness will make it a new favorite in your baking repertoire.

Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or serve it with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. No matter how you serve it, this recipe will bring smiles to the table.

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