“What do you mean, there’s a pie made of honey and salt?” I overheard my friend exclaim as we dove into the wonders of Southern desserts. That’s right—Salted Honey Pie is here to charm your taste buds with a perfect blend of sweet and salty delight. This elegant pie, crafted from everyday ingredients, brings a fun twist to your dessert table, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Not only is it quick to prepare, but each slice offers a creamy, silky texture that feels like a warm hug after a long day. With its buttery crust and a dusting of flaky sea salt, this pie is bound to become your new go-to comfort food. Curious about how to whip up this Southern classic? Let’s dive into a recipe that’s bound to impress!
Why is Burnt Honey Pie a must-try?
Indulgent Creaminess: Each slice of Burnt Honey Pie offers a luxurious blend of buttery, creamy custard that melts in your mouth.
Unique Flavor Profile: The intriguing combination of sweet honey and a hint of salt creates a flavor explosion that’s both familiar and exciting—perfect for those who love to experiment!
Quick Preparation: With simple pantry ingredients, this pie comes together in no time—ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with fresh fruit, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a cup of your favorite tea for an elevated dessert experience.
Southern Charm: Embrace a slice of Southern tradition that not only tastes divine but also has a delightful backstory. For another charming dessert, check out this delicious Old Fashioned Coconut recipe!
Burnt Honey Pie Ingredients
For the Crust
• Pie Crust – Use a homemade or store-bought crust (blind baked) for a crisp foundation.
For the Filling
• Unsalted Butter (½ cup) – Melted butter adds richness; let it cool slightly to ensure easy mixing.
• Granulated Sugar (¾ cup) – This sweetness balances the salty flavor; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
• Cornmeal (¼ cup, fine grind) – It lends stability and a delicate texture; swap with almond flour for a gluten-free option.
• Salt (¼ teaspoon) – This small amount enhances the overall flavor profile and is essential for the sweet-salty balance.
• White Vinegar or Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon) – Provides a tangy brightness to the filling; choose based on your taste!
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Adds more depth to the flavors; a must-have in any dessert!
• Honey (½ cup, preferably wildflower or clover) – The star ingredient of this burnt honey pie, bringing in natural sweetness and floral notes.
• Large Eggs (3) – These create the custard base, helping the filling to set perfectly.
• Heavy Cream (½ cup) – Introduces a smooth and luscious touch; use room temperature for easier blending.
• Flaky Sea Salt (for topping) – Sprinkle just before serving to elevate that sweet-savory experience, making each bite even more delectable.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Burnt Honey Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using a homemade pie crust, roll it out and place it into a 9-inch pie dish. Chill the crust for about 30 minutes, then line it with foil, fill with pie weights, and blind bake for 12-15 minutes. Remove the weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until lightly golden. Let the crust cool completely before filling.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, ¼ cup of fine cornmeal, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Next, add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, followed by ½ cup of honey. Mix until everything is well combined, and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs
Crack 3 large eggs into the honey mixture, adding them one at a time while whisking thoroughly after each addition. This ensures a well-emulsified filling. Once all the eggs are incorporated, slowly stir in ½ cup of heavy cream until the filling is flawlessly smooth with a rich consistency, setting the stage for your Burnt Honey Pie.
Step 4: Fill the Crust
Carefully pour the creamy filling into your pre-baked pie crust, ensuring an even surface. It’s best to place the filled pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips during baking. This will maintain the integrity of your oven while baking the Burnt Honey Pie.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
Bake the pie at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are set and the center has just a slight jiggle, which will firm up as it cools. If the edges brown too quickly, shield them with foil. Enjoy that delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes!
Step 6: Cool the Pie
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This cooling time lets the filling set properly, which is essential for slicing. During this time, the flavors of your Burnt Honey Pie will deepen and enhance, making for a more delicious dessert.
Step 7: Serve with Flair
Just before serving, sprinkle a generous pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the cooled pie for that perfect sweet-savory touch. Slice into the pie and serve it chilled or at room temperature, pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit if desired. Your Burnt Honey Pie is now ready to be enjoyed!
Make Ahead Options
Burnt Honey Pie is a fantastic choice for meal prep, making it easier to enjoy this sweet-salty delight on busy days! You can prepare the pie crust up to 3 days in advance; simply blind bake it and store it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. The filling can also be mixed and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before filling the crust to maintain its creamy texture—just give it a good whisk to recombine before pouring. For the best quality, sprinkle the flaky sea salt just before serving to keep that fresh crunch. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a decadent dessert ready to impress with little effort!
What to Serve with Burnt Honey Pie
Indulging in a slice of burnt honey pie is a delightful experience, and pairing it with complementary sides and drinks can elevate your dessert spread.
Fresh Berries: Serve with a medley of raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries. Their tartness will beautifully contrast the sweetness of the pie, enhancing every bite.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a cloud-like texture, creating a creamy contrast that harmonizes with the silky pie.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of rich vanilla ice cream adds extra indulgence. As it melts, it combines with the pie’s filling, creating a luscious treat.
Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves on top not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a refreshing element that brightens the dessert’s richness.
Coffee or Espresso: A cup of strong coffee or espresso offers a robust flavor profile that balances the dessert’s sweetness, making your experience complete.
Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some crunchy granola on top for a delightful texture contrast. The nutty flavors surprisingly complement the sweet-savory notes of the pie.
Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of dark chocolate sauce can bring a decadent twist, enhancing the dessert’s richness while adding depth to the overall experience.
Herbal Tea: A comforting cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, provides a soothing contrast, perfect for winding down while enjoying your pie.
Variations & Substitutions for Burnt Honey Pie
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this Burnt Honey Pie truly your own with these exciting variations!
Gluten-Free: Substitute the traditional pie crust with a gluten-free crust or almond flour for a gluten-free delicious treat. This allows everyone to enjoy a slice without worry.
Different Sweeteners: Experiment with different types of honey, such as buckwheat or orange blossom, for unique flavor notes. Each honey brings its own character, giving your pie new dimensions.
Nutty Texture: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy custard. You can also sprinkle them on top for an elegant touch.
Fruit Infusion: Fold in some finely chopped fresh fruits, like apples or pears, into the filling to add natural sweetness and a hint of freshness. The juicy fruit accentuates the pie’s flavors beautifully!
Herbal Twist: Infuse a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme in the melted butter for an aromatic twist. This earthy note can elevate the flavor profile and make your pie extra unique.
Dessert Pairing: Serve with a contrasting flavor like a tart berry compote or lemon curd on the side for a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors. It makes for a stunning presentation, too!
Creamy Luxe: Replace heavy cream with crème fraîche for a richer, tangy filling. This substitution adds an extra layer of creaminess, perfect for those cheesecake lovers!
Spicy Kick: For those who crave a bit of heat, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne or a dash of freshly grated ginger into the filling. This subtle warmth will surprise and delight your palate.
Feel inspired yet? As you explore variations, consider pairing your Burnt Honey Pie with a cup of tea or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent experience. And for another delicious dessert, don’t forget to check out this delightful Vegan Shepherds Pie recipe!
Expert Tips for Burnt Honey Pie
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Use eggs and cream at room temperature for a smoother filling that emulsifies beautifully, enhancing the texture of your Burnt Honey Pie.
• Blind Bake Properly: Ensure the pie crust is fully blind baked to maintain a crisp texture. This prevents soggy bottoms when adding the filling.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the pie as it bakes; it should jiggle slightly in the center when done. If edges brown too fast, cover with foil to protect from burning.
• Cooling Time: Allow the pie to cool completely for at least 2 hours before slicing. This helps the filling set properly, ensuring clean and beautiful slices.
• Flavor Experimentation: Feel free to experiment with different types of honey to find the flavor profile you love best, making your Burnt Honey Pie uniquely yours!
How to Store and Freeze Burnt Honey Pie
Room Temperature: Allow the Burnt Honey Pie to cool completely before serving. It can sit out for a few hours but is best stored in the fridge afterward.
Fridge: Store tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This helps maintain the pie’s creamy texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pie for up to 2 months. Wrap well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight. Serve chilled or let it come to room temperature before slicing for the best tasting experience.
Burnt Honey Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of honey is best for Burnt Honey Pie?
I highly recommend using high-quality honey, such as wildflower or clover, as they impart unique floral notes that elevate the pie’s flavor profile. Experimenting with different types of honey can lead to delicious variations, allowing you to find your personal favorite for this delightful dessert!
How should I store leftover Burnt Honey Pie?
To keep your pie fresh, store it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This will help maintain its creamy texture and flavors. If you’re planning to enjoy it later, you can also freeze it for up to 2 months, ensuring that all that lovely sweetness is preserved.
Can I freeze Burnt Honey Pie?
Absolutely! To freeze your Burnt Honey Pie, first allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator. This method ensures that your pie remains just as delicious as it was when fresh!
What can I do if my Burnt Honey Pie doesn’t set properly?
If your pie doesn’t set as expected, it’s often due to under-baking. Make sure to bake your pie until the edges are firm but the center has a slight jiggle—this ensures it will set while cooling. If it’s been baked sufficiently and still isn’t setting, the filling may need the full cooling time to firm up before slicing.
Can I make a gluten-free version of Burnt Honey Pie?
Yes, indeed! You can substitute the cornmeal in the filling with almond flour for a gluten-free variation. Just ensure that your pie crust is also gluten-free, and you’ll have a delicious, allergy-friendly version of this sweet-savory delight!
Is Burnt Honey Pie safe for pets?
It’s best to keep this pie away from pets. The sugar and honey could cause stomach upset, and ingredients like vanilla and salt may not be healthy for them. Always check with your veterinarian if you’re unsure about what foods are safe for your furry friends.
Burnt Honey Pie
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare the pie crust by chilling it, then blind baking for 12-15 minutes before cooling.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, cornmeal, and salt, then mix in vinegar, vanilla, and honey.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the mixture, whisking thoroughly after each addition, then stir in heavy cream.
- Pour the filling into the pre-baked pie crust, ensuring an even surface, and place it on a baking sheet.
- Bake the pie at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes. The edges should be set and the center should jiggle slightly.
- Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing to let the filling set properly.
- Just before serving, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top, slice, and enjoy with ice cream or fresh fruit.
