Salted Honey Pie: 5-Star Decadent Twist on a Southern Classic is a luxurious dessert that blends the deep warmth of honey with a delicate kiss of sea salt. This pie features a silky custard filling baked into a buttery crust, creating layers of caramelized sweetness and gentle salinity. Moreover, it is ideal for cozy family dinners, holiday gatherings, or cool evenings when a comforting, refined dessert truly shines.
Servings – Salted Honey Pie: 5-Star Decadent Twist on a Southern Classic
Servings: 8–10 slices
This pie is perfectly portioned for sharing, whether served after a Sunday meal or as a centerpiece dessert for special occasions.
Time Required for Salted Honey Pie: 5-Star Decadent Twist on a Southern Classic
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
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Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes, plus cooling
Additionally, allowing proper cooling time ensures the custard sets to a flawless, sliceable texture.
Ingredients for Salted Honey Pie: 5-Star Decadent Twist on a Southern Classic
Main Ingredients
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1 unbaked pie crust (22–24 cm), chilled
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170 g unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
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200 g pure honey (preferably wildflower or clover)
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150 g granulated sugar
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3 large eggs (about 165 g without shells), room temperature
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120 ml heavy cream
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1 tbsp white vinegar or apple cider vinegar (15 ml)
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1 tbsp cornmeal (10 g)
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1 tbsp all-purpose flour (8 g)
Spices & Seasoning
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1 tsp vanilla extract (5 ml)
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½ tsp fine sea salt
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Flaky sea salt, for finishing (optional)
In addition, choosing high-quality honey significantly enhances the final aroma and depth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prepare the base:
Preheat the oven to 175°C. Place the chilled pie crust into a 24 cm pie dish, crimp the edges neatly, and refrigerate while preparing the filling. Meanwhile, this keeps the crust firm and flaky. -
Build the flavor foundation:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the melted butter, honey, and sugar until smooth and glossy. Furthermore, ensure the butter is warm, not hot, to avoid scrambling the eggs later. -
Incorporate the eggs:
Add the eggs one at a time, whisking gently after each addition. Then, mix until the custard is cohesive and silky. -
Enhance aroma and balance:
Whisk in the cream, vanilla extract, vinegar, and fine sea salt. However, do not overmix, as excess air can affect the final texture. -
Stabilize the filling:
Sprinkle in the cornmeal and flour, whisking until fully dissolved. This step ensures a custard that sets beautifully without becoming dense. -
Fill and bake:
Pour the honey custard into the prepared crust. Next, transfer carefully to the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, until the center is just set with a gentle wobble. -
Finish and rest:
Remove from the oven and allow the pie to cool completely on a rack. Finally, sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt before serving for a refined sweet-salty contrast.
Variations
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With meat (savory-sweet pairing):
Serve slices alongside thinly sliced prosciutto or country ham for an elegant Southern-inspired dessert plate. -
Vegetarian nut-infused version:
Add 40 g finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts to the filling for added texture and depth. -
Creamier version:
Replace half of the heavy cream with crème fraîche for a tangier, more luxurious mouthfeel. -
Spicier version:
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger to gently warm the honey notes. -
Seasonal swap:
In autumn, substitute part of the honey with maple syrup for a deeper, woodsy sweetness.
Tips for Perfect Results
Control the bake:
Bake until the center jiggles slightly; overbaking can cause cracks and a dry texture.
Enhance aroma:
Warm the honey gently before mixing to amplify its floral notes.
Proper storage:
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; bring to room temperature before serving.
Avoid common mistakes:
Do not skip the vinegar—it subtly balances sweetness and sharpens flavor without tasting acidic.
Clean slicing:
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water, wiping between cuts, for pristine slices.
Final Thoughts
Salted Honey Pie: 5-Star Decadent Twist on a Southern Classic celebrates simplicity elevated by precision and balance. With its glossy custard, buttery crust, and nuanced salty finish, this pie feels both nostalgic and refined. Moreover, it is a dessert that rewards patience and quality ingredients, making every bite a warm, memorable indulgence worth sharing.
