Introduction
Southern Buttermilk Pie is a traditional comfort dessert that has been baked for generations. With a silky custard center, a subtle tang from buttermilk, and a lightly caramelized top, this pie is simple yet unforgettable. It is often served during holidays, Sunday gatherings, and family celebrations. Its smooth texture and balanced sweetness make it a timeless favorite.
Ingredients
1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup buttermilk
3 large eggs
1 stick butter, melted
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon juice or ½ teaspoon lemon zest
1 pinch salt
Optional: ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg for a classic Southern touch
Instructions
Preheat oven to 180°C.
Place the unbaked pie crust into a pie pan and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, whisk sugar and flour together.
Add eggs and whisk until smooth.
Add melted butter, buttermilk, vanilla, lemon juice, and salt.
Whisk until the mixture becomes creamy with no lumps.
Pour the filling into the pie crust.
Bake for 40 to 55 minutes until the top is lightly browned and the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.
Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours for cleaner slices.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Methods
Mixing the dry ingredients first helps prevent clumping.
Melting the butter and incorporating it slowly ensures a smooth custard texture.
Cooling is essential to allow the custard to firm up properly.
Cover the crust edges with foil if they begin to brown too quickly.
History
Buttermilk Pie has roots in old European custard pies brought to the American South by settlers. When fresh cream was scarce, cooks used buttermilk as a tangy, affordable alternative. Over time, the pie became a Southern staple known for its simple ingredients and dependable flavor.
Benefits
Uses basic pantry ingredients.
Provides a good source of calcium from buttermilk.
Easy to make and suitable for beginners.
Versatile for holidays, potlucks, and gatherings.
Formation
The custard formation occurs as eggs and buttermilk bake together. The sugar caramelizes slightly on top, creating a thin golden layer while the interior stays creamy. The pie crust supports the custard and provides texture contrast.
Nutrition
Approximate per slice
Calories 260 to 320
Fat 14 g
Carbohydrates 30 g
Protein 4 g
Sugar content moderate to high
Calcium moderate due to buttermilk
Conclusion
Southern Buttermilk Pie is a classic dessert that brings warmth and nostalgia to any table. With its smooth filling and sweet, delicate tang, it is a dessert that never disappoints and fits every occasion.