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Indulge in a slice of southern comfort with the Classic Buttermilk Pie – a cherished dessert that harks back to a time of old-fashioned goodness. This creamy and tangy pie is a true delight for the taste buds, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and zesty buttermilk flavor. Whether served warm or chilled, this timeless pie is sure to evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth. In this blog post, we’ll explore the art of crafting this delectable treat, step-by-step.
Buttermilk Pie is a classic Southern dessert that has a rich history in the American South. It’s a custard-style pie with a unique tangy flavor, thanks to the buttermilk used as a key ingredient. The origins of Buttermilk Pie can be traced back to traditional English custard pies. As European settlers came to America, they brought their culinary traditions with them. Over time, these recipes evolved, and regional variations emerged.
In the Southern United States, where buttermilk was a common ingredient in many households, Buttermilk Pie became a beloved dessert. It was a practical and delicious way to use surplus buttermilk, and its simplicity made it accessible to home bakers. Today, Buttermilk Pie is a staple at Southern gatherings and celebrations, often served with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream.
Buttermilk Pie
The Classic Buttermilk Pie is a beloved dessert that holds a special place in the hearts of many. With its smooth and velvety texture, rich flavor, and delicate notes of buttermilk, this pie is a wonderful way to end any meal. The flaky crust provides the perfect contrast to the custard-like filling, making every bite a heavenly experience. This pie is an excellent choice for gatherings, potlucks, and family celebrations, as its delightful taste will surely please all palates.
Tools and Equipment
- 9-inch pie dish: Buy On Amazon
- Rolling pin: Buy On Amazon
- Mixing bowls: Buy On Amazon
- Whisk: Buy On Amazon
- Saucepan: Buy On Amazon
- Spatula: Buy On Amazon
- Oven
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
For the Buttermilk Filling:
Step-by-Step Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt for the pie crust.
Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture.
Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add the ice water to the dough mixture, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together.
Shape the dough into a ball, flatten it slightly, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle, about 12 inches in diameter.
Transfer the rolled-out dough to a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides of the dish.
Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges of the pie dish.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and salt for the buttermilk filling.
In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs, and then add them to the sugar mixture.
Add the buttermilk, melted unsalted butter, pure vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using) to the egg mixture.
Whisk all the ingredients together until the filling is smooth and well combined.
Pour the buttermilk filling into the prepared pie crust.
Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes or until the filling is set and golden brown on top.
Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 1 hour.
Once cooled, refrigerate the pie for an additional 2 hours or until it is fully chilled and set.
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 381.49kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20.24g32%
- Saturated Fat 11.75g59%
- Trans Fat 0.01g
- Cholesterol 140.44mg47%
- Sodium 288.67mg13%
- Potassium 106.05mg4%
- Total Carbohydrate 43.85g15%
- Dietary Fiber 0.61g3%
- Sugars 26.66g
- Protein 6.61g14%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Please note that the nutritional values provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. It's always best to double-check with your specific ingredients and measurements for accurate nutritional information.
Note
Tips and Variations:
- For added texture and flavor, you can sprinkle a dash of ground nutmeg or cinnamon over the buttermilk filling before baking.
- If you prefer a more citrusy flavor, substitute the lemon zest with orange zest.
- For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the pie crust.
- To enhance the presentation, serve the pie with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Classic Buttermilk Pie chilled or at room temperature.
- Garnish each slice with a dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of lemon zest for an elegant touch.
Allergen Information:
Here's the allergen information for Buttermilk Pie:
Dairy: Buttermilk Pie contains dairy in the form of buttermilk, butter, and sometimes heavy cream. If you have dairy allergies or dietary restrictions, it can be challenging to make this pie without dairy substitutes, but non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or coconut milk can be used.
Eggs: This pie typically includes eggs as a binding agent. If you have egg allergies or follow a vegan diet, egg replacements like flaxseed or chia seed "eggs" may be used, although the texture and taste may vary slightly.
Gluten: The pie crust traditionally used for Buttermilk Pie is made with wheat flour, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free pie crust or prepare a crust using gluten-free flour blends.
Wine or Drink Pairing:
Pairing beverages with Buttermilk Pie can enhance your dessert experience:
Coffee: A cup of hot coffee, whether black or with a touch of cream, complements the sweetness and richness of Buttermilk Pie.
Sweet Tea: In the South, sweet tea is a classic companion to many desserts, including Buttermilk Pie. Its sweetness and mild tannins complement the pie's creamy texture and sweet flavor.
Whiskey: If you prefer a stronger pairing, consider a bourbon or whiskey with caramel and vanilla notes. The complexity of these spirits pairs well with the pie's richness.
Storage and Leftovers:
To keep your Buttermilk Pie fresh and enjoyable:
Refrigeration: After baking and cooling, store the pie in the refrigerator. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you want to extend its shelf life, you can freeze Buttermilk Pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating: When serving leftover pie, allow it to come to room temperature or warm it briefly in the oven at a low temperature to restore its texture and flavor.
