Name: Salted Honey Pie: Indulge in This Sweet-Salty Delight
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 195 min
Ingredients: 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought, blind-baked); 0.5 cup unsalted butter (melted); 0.75 cup granulated sugar (can swap with maple syrup); 0.25 cup fine cornmeal (or almond flour for gluten-free); 0.25 teaspoon salt (flaky sea salt preferred); 1 tablespoon white vinegar (or lemon juice); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (preferably pure); 0.5 cup honey (preferably wildflower or clover); 3 large eggs (can substitute with flax eggs); 0.5 cup heavy cream (coconut cream for dairy-free); flaky sea salt (for sprinkling)

As the golden sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the kitchen, I found myself yearning for a taste of home. That’s when I decided to whip up a stunning Salted Honey Pie, a delightful twist on a Southern classic. This recipe blends the smooth, custard-like goodness of honey with an irresistible salty crunch, creating a treat that’s both comforting and unique. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any gathering or just a quiet evening at home. You’ll love how it impresses friends and family, leaving them craving another slice! What’s your favorite dessert to share during special occasions?

Why is Salted Honey Pie a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor Combination: The blend of sweet honey and flaky sea salt elevates this pie to an unforgettable dessert experience.
Easy to Make: With minimal steps and common ingredients, even novice bakers can create this showstopper.
Southern Comfort: This pie evokes the essence of Southern hospitality, making it perfect for gatherings.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to experiment with maple syrup or add spices like cinnamon for a personal touch. If you’re looking for more ways to sweeten your day, check out these delicious Orange Ginger Honey cakes or a delightful Peach Pie Cruffins.
Crowd-Pleaser: Your friends and family will be raving about this dessert long after it’s gone!

Salted Honey Pie Ingredients

For the Crust

9-inch pie crust – You can use homemade or store-bought; just remember to blind-bake for the perfect texture.

For the Filling

½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and binds the filling together beautifully.
¾ cup granulated sugar – This sweet component can also be swapped with maple syrup for a unique twist!
¼ cup fine cornmeal – Provides stability to the custard; almond flour can be a gluten-free alternative.
¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor; using flaky sea salt can elevate the sweet-salty balance.
1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice – Brightens the filling with a touch of acidity to offset sweetness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A dash of this deepens the flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
½ cup honey (preferably wildflower or clover) – The star ingredient that gives our Salted Honey Pie its special sweetness and flavor.
3 large eggs – Essential for binding; if you’re looking for alternatives, flax eggs can work but may alter texture.
½ cup heavy cream – Provides a luscious creaminess; coconut cream can serve as a dairy-free substitute.

For Topping

Flaky sea salt (such as Maldon) – Adds a final crunchy touch; just avoid coarse salt to maintain that delicate balance.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Honey Pie

Step 1: Prepare Pie Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place your 9-inch pie crust in the refrigerator to chill. Once chilled, line the crust with foil and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 12–15 minutes, then carefully remove the weights and foil, returning it to the oven to bake for an additional 5 minutes until the crust is lightly golden. Allow it to cool slightly before adding the filling.

Step 2: Mix Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup melted unsalted butter, ¾ cup granulated sugar, ¼ cup fine cornmeal, and ¼ teaspoon salt until well combined. Then, add 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and ½ cup honey, mixing until smooth and creamy. You should achieve a glossy texture, signaling that your filling is well-prepared and ready for the next stage.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs
Crack 3 large eggs into the filling mixture, adding them one at a time while whisking thoroughly after each addition. This step is crucial for creating a well-blended custard. Once all the eggs are fully incorporated, gently stir in ½ cup heavy cream, ensuring the mixture is completely smooth and even in consistency, resembling a luscious custard ready to be poured into the crust.

Step 4: Bake Pie Filling
Pour the rich filling into your pre-baked pie crust, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Carefully place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any spills and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–50 minutes. The filling should be just set, which means it should have a slight jiggle in the center but will firm up as it cools. Keep an eye on the crust to prevent over-browning.

Step 5: Cool
Once baked, take the Salted Honey Pie out of the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This cooling period allows the pie to set properly, ensuring that your custard maintains its silky texture and structure when sliced. As it cools, your kitchen will fill with the tempting aroma of honey and sweetness.

Step 6: Finish
Before serving, lightly sprinkle some flaky sea salt on top of your beautifully set Salted Honey Pie. The salt will enhance the sweet notes of the pie while adding a delightful crunch. Serve the pie chilled or at room temperature, and prepare to enjoy a uniquely elegant Southern dessert that is sure to impress your friends and family.

Make Ahead Options

These Salted Honey Pie are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeks! You can prepare the pie crust up to 24 hours in advance by blind baking it and then storing it tightly wrapped at room temperature. The filling can be mixed and refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container; just give it a good stir before pouring it into the crust. To maintain quality, ensure the filling is sealed properly to prevent any unwanted air exposure. When you’re ready to serve, simply pour the filling into the pre-baked crust, bake at 350°F (175°C) until just set, cool, and finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. You’ll have a delicious dessert ready to impress with minimal effort!

Tips for the Best Salted Honey Pie

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and cream are at room temperature to create a smooth, lump-free filling that sets perfectly.
Blind Baking Matters: Avoid soggy crust by blind baking your crust until light golden. Skipping this step can ruin the texture of your Salted Honey Pie.
Cooling is Key: Let the pie cool completely before slicing. Cutting too soon will cause the filling to ooze, making it difficult to serve.
Quality Honey: For optimal flavor, use high-quality honey. The type of honey you choose can significantly impact the overall taste of your pie.
Chill Before Serving: Serve your Salted Honey Pie after refrigerating it for a couple of hours, as chilling enhances the flavors and texture as it sets.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to try variations, like swapping honey for maple syrup or adding spices for a personal twist.

What to Serve with Salted Honey Pie?

A delightful Salted Honey Pie isn’t just a dessert—it’s the star of your dinner table, and pairing the right sides will elevate your meal to a whole new level.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pie, cleansing the palate beautifully.
Whipped Cream Topping: Light and airy homemade whipped cream adds a luscious touch that complements the pie’s smooth texture, making each bite even more indulgent.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of your favorite coffee or a gently brewed tea sharpens the sweetness of the pie, creating a cozy, comforting experience.
Ice Cream Delight: Scooping vanilla or honey-flavored ice cream alongside the pie enhances its creamy richness and adds a delightful chill, perfect for warm evenings.
Savory Cheese Platter: Pairing the sweetness of the pie with a selection of tangy cheeses creates an exciting flavor contrast. Think creamy brie or sharp cheddar!
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A light drizzle of rich chocolate sauce over each slice can turn your pie into a decadent fantasy dessert; it beautifully complements the honey’s floral notes.
Nutty Crumble Topping: Sprinkle some crushed nuts for a delightful crunch that adds another layer of texture to each forkful, enriching the whole pie experience.
Herbal Tea Infusion: Chai or peppermint tea serves as a soothing sip that balances the sweet and salty notes while adding a hint of warmth to your meal.

How to Store and Freeze Salted Honey Pie

Fridge: Store your Salted Honey Pie tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and the pie perfectly chilled.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving for the best texture.

Reheating: If you prefer a warm pie, gently reheat individual slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will revive the creamy custard and flaky crust beautifully.

Serving Suggestion: Before serving leftover slices, consider sprinkling a pinch more flaky sea salt on top to enhance the sweet-salty flavor profile!

Salted Honey Pie Variations & Substitutions

Customize your Salted Honey Pie with these delightful twists, ensuring every dessert is uniquely yours!

Maple-Sweetened: Substitute honey with maple syrup for an earthy, rich flavor; just keep an eye on the texture.
Citrus Zest Boost: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the filling for a refreshing zing that brightens each bite.
Spiced Delight: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the warmth and further enrich the flavor profile.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use plant-based butter to create a luscious, dairy-free version.
Gluten-Free Twist: Swap cornmeal for fine almond flour to make your filling gluten-free while keeping it rich and stable.
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for a crunchy texture contrast that enhances the pie’s warmth.
Creamy Variations: Mix in a dollop of cream cheese into the filling; it adds a tang and smoothness that balances the sweetness beautifully.
XXL Pie Option: Double the recipe for a crowd-pleasing, large pie that’s perfect for gatherings – just increase baking time and ensure it’s set.

Don’t forget, if you’re looking for more delightful treats, try these Honey Feta Sweet Potato bites or a refreshing Quinoa Salad Honey for something savory!

Salted Honey Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of honey is best for Salted Honey Pie?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using high-quality honey, preferably wildflower or clover. These types have distinct floral notes that elevate the pie’s flavor. If you want to experiment, you can also try using a light-flavored honey or even agave syrup, but be aware that the taste may vary slightly.

How should I store my Salted Honey Pie?
To keep your Salted Honey Pie fresh, store it tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This ensures the flavors remain intact and highlights the pie’s creamy texture. If you have leftovers, you can also wrap the pie tightly and freeze it for up to 2 months! Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving for the best consistency.

Can I freeze Salted Honey Pie?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your Salted Honey Pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’d like, you can even warm up individual slices by gently reheating them in an oven set to 300°F (150°C) for about 10–15 minutes.

Why did my filling turn out grainy?
If your filling is grainy, it’s often due to the sugar not dissolving properly during mixing. To avoid this, I suggest whisking the melted butter, sugar, and other ingredients together thoroughly until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy. Be sure to incorporate the eggs slowly and mix well after each addition; this helps achieve that silky custard texture.

What should I do if my pie crust is soggy?
No worries! A soggy crust often results from not blind-baking it long enough. To fix this, ensure you chill the crust before baking and use pie weights or dried beans during the initial baking phase. This helps it retain its crispiness. If you find your crust is already soggy, you can crisp it up a bit by returning it to the oven for a few minutes when adding your filling.

Is this pie safe for pets?
While the Salted Honey Pie is a delightful treat for humans, it contains ingredients like sugar and butter that are not suitable for pets. In particular, honey can be high in sugar, which isn’t ideal for furry friends. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly treat, consider whipping up some homemade snacks just for them!