Oh, sweet Southern buttermilk pie! There’s just something so comforting about this classic dessert that warms my heart and fills my kitchen with delightful aromas. I can still remember the first time I had a slice of this creamy custard filling, sweet yet subtly tangy from the buttermilk, nestled in a perfectly baked pie crust. It was at my grandma’s house during the summer holidays, and let me tell you, every forkful transported me right back to my childhood.
This pie is not just tasty; it’s steeped in tradition! Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even just a quiet night at home, it has a way of bringing people together. I love serving it cooler or at room temperature, and if you can resist, allowing it to rest in the fridge overnight intensifies those delicious flavors even more. Plus, who can argue with whipped cream on top? No one, I assure you!
So, roll up those sleeves, and let’s dive into the world of buttermilk pie!
What’s in Classic Southern Buttermilk Pie?
Buttermilk: Ah, the star ingredient! Buttermilk adds a creamy texture and a gentle tang that balances the sweetness of the pie. I usually go for a full-fat version because, let’s face it, we’re treating ourselves here!
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the deal! You’ll want just the right amount to bring out the flavors without making it overly sweet.
Eggs: The binding heroes of our custard filling. They provide richness and help set the filling as it bakes, giving that luscious texture we all love.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of this aromatic goodness elevates the flavor profile, adding warmth and depth to the custard.
All-Purpose Flour: Just a bit of flour acts as a thickener to ensure your filling is perfectly custardy without being soupy.
Pie Crust: You can opt for a homemade or store-bought crust—there’s no judgment here! Just ensure it’s flaky and sturdy enough to hold all that delicious filling.
Is Classic Southern Buttermilk Pie Good for You?
While this pie certainly isn’t on the “diet-friendly” list, it does have its moments of glory!
Buttermilk: Packed with probiotics, it can aid digestion and is lower in fat than cream, making it a slightly healthier choice in creamy desserts.
Eggs: A great source of protein and vitamins, they also provide healthy fats, especially beneficial for energy.
But, let’s keep it real: this is a dessert to enjoy in moderation. The sugar and flour make it a treat best reserved for special occasions or when you need a little pick-me-up!
Ingredients
– 1 pre-made pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Whipped cream, for topping
This recipe will serve about 8 people, depending on how generous you are with those slices!
How to Make Classic Southern Buttermilk Pie?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and flour until well combined.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
5. Pour the filling into the pie crust, and give it a gentle shake to level it out.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
7. Once finished, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool. Then, refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight for even better flavor!).
8. Before serving, top with a generous dollop of whipped cream to add that extra sweetness.
Whipped Cream Dreams!
To really make your buttermilk pie sing, you can jazz up your whipped cream! Add a touch of vanilla extract or even a sprinkle of nutmeg to complement the pie’s flavors. And if you want to get fancy, try a flavored whipped topping like almond or hazelnut for an unexpected twist.
I can hardly contain my excitement as I encourage you to try this recipe. Once you take that first bite of creamy, dreamy buttermilk pie, I promise you’ll be hooked! So go ahead, give it a whirl, and don’t forget to share your delicious results with me. Happy baking!
