There’s something simply magical about a classic Southern pie, and the Rich & Creamy Buttermilk Pie Recipe truly is the definition of comfort in dessert form. Imagine a custardy filling that’s lusciously smooth, with the perfect balance of tang and sweetness, all nestled in a flaky, golden crust. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just want a nostalgic treat, this pie is guaranteed to win hearts and spark conversation. Every creamy bite brings a taste of tradition and pure joy right to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this pie is how it transforms a handful of humble ingredients into something extraordinary. Each component plays a crucial role, from the rich dairy to the bright citrus, creating a dessert with irresistible flavor and velvety texture.
- Unbaked 9-inch pie crust: This is your crisp, buttery foundation—use store-bought for convenience or homemade for that extra love.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling and helps it set beautifully for that signature luscious bite.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Adds just enough structure to keep the custard creamy but not runny.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors and cuts a bit of the sweetness for balance.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled): Gives the pie its unmistakable richness and silky mouthfeel.
- 3 large eggs: The secret to that dreamy, custard-like setting—make sure they’re at room temperature for best blending.
- 1 cup buttermilk: The star ingredient, bringing a lovely tang and ultra-creamy texture to the filling.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens up the custard and adds a subtle zing.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with cozy, aromatic warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional): Just a hint brings gentle spice and a classic touch.
How to Make Rich & Creamy Buttermilk Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gently place your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, making sure to press it evenly into the corners and crimp the edges however you like—rustic or fancy, it all adds to the charm! Set the crust aside while you make the filling.
Step 2: Make the Custard Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, flour, and salt. This step ensures your dry ingredients are well blended, so there are no lumps of flour hiding in your pie. Pour in the melted butter and stir until everything is combined and glossy.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs
Crack in the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition. This helps the custard become ultra-smooth and velvety, so every slice of your Rich & Creamy Buttermilk Pie Recipe is perfectly set but never dense.
Step 4: Add Buttermilk, Lemon, and Flavorings
Pour in the buttermilk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, stirring gently until the mixture is silky and uniform. If you love that hint of nutmeg, sprinkle it in now for a subtle touch of spice that makes this pie truly special.
Step 5: Fill the Pie and Bake
Slowly pour the custard filling into your prepared pie crust. Place the pie carefully on the center rack of your oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. You’re looking for a lightly golden top with a center that’s just set—a little jiggle is a good sign!
Step 6: Cool and Chill
Once the pie is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature for about an hour. Then, transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least two hours. This step is crucial for achieving that signature creamy texture that makes this Rich & Creamy Buttermilk Pie Recipe a standout.
How to Serve Rich & Creamy Buttermilk Pie Recipe
Garnishes
For a classic finish, dust your pie with a little powdered sugar or add a generous dollop of whipped cream. If you want to get fancy, a sprinkle of extra nutmeg or a few fresh berries can make every slice look bakery-worthy.
Side Dishes
This pie shines on its own, but it’s absolutely delightful paired with a cup of hot coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you’re serving a crowd, offer some fresh fruit salad on the side to balance the pie’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Rich & Creamy Buttermilk Pie Recipe as elegant mini tartlets for a party, or cut the pie into wedges and plate each slice with a drizzle of berry coulis for a colorful touch. You can even use small cookie cutters to make fun shapes from leftover crust and bake them as edible pie toppers!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover your pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, making it a wonderful dessert to enjoy throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to save slices for later, wrap each piece individually and place them in a freezer-safe container. The Rich & Creamy Buttermilk Pie Recipe freezes beautifully for up to two months. Just let slices thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
While this pie is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, you can gently warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. If you prefer the whole pie warm, tent it with foil and reheat in a 300°F oven for about 15 minutes.
FAQs
Can I make this pie without buttermilk?
Buttermilk is key to the signature tang and creamy texture, but in a pinch, you can use a mixture of milk and lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute. Still, the Rich & Creamy Buttermilk Pie Recipe truly shines with real buttermilk!
How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The center should be just set with a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pie. The top will be lightly golden. If you insert a knife near the center, it should come out mostly clean—just don’t overbake or the custard can get tough.
Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Absolutely! Store-bought crusts make this recipe even easier, and they bake up beautifully. If you have the time, homemade crust adds a special touch, but either option works perfectly for the Rich & Creamy Buttermilk Pie Recipe.
What’s the best way to slice the pie neatly?
Chill the pie thoroughly before slicing, and use a sharp knife dipped in hot water (then wiped dry) for the cleanest cuts. Wipe the blade between slices for picture-perfect wedges.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, the Rich & Creamy Buttermilk Pie Recipe tastes even better after a night in the fridge. Make it a day in advance and keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve for stress-free entertaining.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tasted a true Southern classic, this is your sign to try the Rich & Creamy Buttermilk Pie Recipe. With its custardy, tangy-sweet filling and crisp, buttery crust, this pie brings comfort and joy to any table. I can’t wait for you to share it with your loved ones—one bite, and it just might become your new favorite tradition!
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Rich & Creamy Buttermilk Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Rich & Creamy Buttermilk Pie is a classic Southern dessert featuring a smooth, custard-like filling made with tangy buttermilk and a hint of lemon. Baked in a flaky 9-inch pie crust, its sweet and slightly tangy flavor pairs perfectly with a dusting of powdered sugar or whipped cream. Easy to prepare and perfect for making ahead, this pie offers a comforting, old-fashioned treat ideal for family gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Filling
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the unbaked 9-inch pie crust into a pie dish, crimping the edges neatly to form a decorative rim. Set aside while you prepare the filling.
- Make the filling base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and salt to evenly combine the dry ingredients.
- Add butter and eggs: Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture is smooth. Begin whisking in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next for a uniform custard texture.
- Incorporate remaining liquids: Stir in the buttermilk, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and ground nutmeg (if using). Mix thoroughly until the filling is smooth and well blended.
- Fill the pie crust: Pour the prepared filling evenly into the unbaked pie crust, smoothing the top if needed.
- Bake the pie: Place the pie carefully on the center rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes or until the filling is just set and the top gains a light golden color. A slight jiggle in the center is acceptable and desired to ensure creamy consistency.
- Cool the pie: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature for about one hour to set gently.
- Chill before serving: Once cooled, transfer the pie to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours. This step allows the pie to fully firm up and enhances the flavors for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Serve the pie chilled or at room temperature according to your preference.
- For an extra touch, dust the top with powdered sugar or add a dollop of whipped cream before serving.
- The pie sets beautifully and can be baked a day in advance, making it perfect for entertaining.
- Use fresh buttermilk for the best tangy flavor and creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 36g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
