Name: Indulge in Silky Salted Honey Pie: Sweet and Savory Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 200 min
Ingredients: 1 crust Pie Crust (Pre-baked for crispy texture); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Melted and cooled slightly); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar (Can be reduced to taste); 1/4 cup Cornmeal (Fine grind preferred); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to liking); 1 tablespoon Vinegar or Lemon Juice (Brightens custard); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Use pure vanilla for best flavor); 1/2 cup Honey (Preferably wildflower or clover); 3 large Eggs (Room temperature for better incorporation); 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (Do not substitute with light cream); Flaky Sea Salt (For topping)

Just as the sweet sun dips low on a Southern evening, I found myself with a craving for something that perfectly captures the essence of comfort and nostalgia. Enter the Salted Honey Pie, a delightful dessert that weds the luxurious sweetness of honey custard with a hint of flaky sea salt. This pie is not only a feast for the eyes but also a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to whip up. Whether you’re hosting a garden party or simply indulging in a quiet night at home, this elegant pie brings a sophisticated twist to your dessert table without the fuss. Best of all, its creamy, smooth texture and golden crust make each bite feel like a warm hug. Are you ready to discover your new favorite treat?

Why is Salted Honey Pie a Must-Try?

Irresistibly Sweet and Salty: The unique balance of honey’s sweetness with a touch of flaky sea salt creates a flavor profile that is hard to resist.

Elegant Presentation: This pie is not just a dessert; it’s a stunning centerpiece that will wow your guests, making every occasion feel special.

Easy to Prepare: Even if you’re a novice in the kitchen, this straightforward recipe will have you impressing family and friends without the usual stress.

Versatile Pairings: Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries for a refreshing contrast. You can even elevate it further with ideas from our Strawberry Honey Custard or Honey Peach Cream recipes.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Easily prepare this pie in advance; its flavor deepens as it sits, making it an ideal choice for gatherings.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Regardless of age, everyone will appreciate the nostalgic flavors of this Southern classic, making it a sure hit at any gathering!

Salted Honey Pie Ingredients

For the Crust

Pie Crust – Use homemade or store-bought for convenience; it must be pre-baked to ensure a crispy texture.

For the Filling

Unsalted Butter (½ cup) – This adds richness and moisture; melt it and allow to cool slightly.
Granulated Sugar (¾ cup) – Sweetness is essential for the custard; feel free to reduce it slightly to suit your taste.
Cornmeal (¼ cup) – This ingredient helps set the filling while adding texture; fine grind is preferred for a smoother pie.
Salt (¼ teaspoon) – Enhances the overall flavor of the sweet filling; adjust to your liking for a better balance.
Vinegar or Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon) – Brightens the custard; lemon juice lends a fresher taste if you choose to substitute.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – This adds depth to the flavor; pure vanilla is recommended for the best results.
Honey (½ cup, preferably wildflower or clover) – The star ingredient providing sweet floral notes; quality matters to your pie’s flavor.
Large Eggs (3) – Essential for structure and creaminess; use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.
Heavy Cream (½ cup) – Adds an extra layer of creaminess; do not substitute with light cream for optimal results.
Flaky Sea Salt (for topping) – A final sprinkle balances sweetness and adds a delightful burst of flavor.

Indulging in this Salted Honey Pie will bring warmth and joy to your dessert repertoire!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Honey Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using a homemade or store-bought pie crust, place it in a pie dish and line it with parchment paper. Add pie weights or dried beans and bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Remove the weights and parchment, then bake for an additional 5 minutes until the crust is fully set but not darkened. Allow it to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, cornmeal, and salt until smooth and well combined. Then, add the vinegar or lemon juice, vanilla extract, and honey, stirring until you achieve a homogenous mixture. This fragrant filling is the heart of your Salted Honey Pie, so ensure it’s well blended before moving on.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs
Crack the eggs into the mixture one at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition until fully combined. This step is crucial, as it builds the custard’s structure. Once the eggs are incorporated, fold in the heavy cream until the filling is glossy and smooth, capturing all the lovely flavors of honey and butter.

Step 4: Bake the Pie
Carefully pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, ensuring no spills occur. Place the pie in a preheated oven set to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the edges are set, but the center should jiggle slightly when moved. This will create a perfect, creamy texture as the custard will finish setting as it cools.

Step 5: Cool and Finish
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This cooling period is vital to achieving the right texture. Before serving, sprinkle a generous amount of flaky sea salt on top, enhancing the sweetness of your Salted Honey Pie and adding a wonderful contrast of flavors to each slice.

Expert Tips for Perfect Salted Honey Pie

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and heavy cream, are at room temperature for a smooth and creamy filling.
Blind Baking Matters: Don’t skip the blind baking step! It prevents a soggy crust and ensures that your pie crust remains crisp and delicious.
Cooling Time is Essential: Allow the pie to cool completely for at least 2 hours before slicing. This helps the filling set properly and maintain its structure.
Quality Honey: Use high-quality honey, preferably wildflower or clover, for the best flavor. The type of honey can impact the overall sweetness and floral notes of your Salted Honey Pie.
Sprinkle Salt Carefully: Add flaky sea salt just before serving to maintain its texture and enhance the sweet and salty contrast of the pie.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the pie while baking; it should jiggle slightly in the center when done. Overbaking can lead to a dry filling.

What to Serve with Salted Honey Pie?

Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that complement the creamy, sweet notes of this Southern classic.

Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries provides a refreshing contrast to the pie’s sweetness and rich texture.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy touch, enhancing the overall indulgence of the pie.
Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla or honey-flavored ice cream melts beautifully into the warm pie, creating a harmonious blend of flavors with each forkful.
Mint Tea: A warm cup of mint tea offers a fragrant finish, soothing the palate after the richness of the pie while enhancing the honey notes.
Lemonade: The zesty brightness of lemonade complements the pie’s sweetness beautifully, offering a refreshing sip that balances each bite.
Chocolate Drizzle: A delicate drizzle of chocolate sauce can elevate the presentation, adding a luxurious touch that pairs well with the honey custard.
Nuts or Crumble Topping: A sprinkle of toasted nuts or a crunchy crumble provides a delightful texture contrast, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
Coffee: A warm cup of rich coffee or espresso pairs wonderfully with the dessert, cutting through the sweetness and creating a cozy atmosphere.

Make Ahead Options

Salted Honey Pie is a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the pie crust up to 3 days ahead; simply blind bake it, let it cool, and store it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. Additionally, the custard filling can be made up to 24 hours in advance and kept in an airtight container in the fridge to ensure freshness. When ready to assemble, just pour the filling into the pre-baked crust and bake as directed. This not only enhances the flavors but also delivers delicious, stress-free results that will impress your guests. Enjoy a slice of this elegant dessert, knowing you have taken a shortcut without compromising quality!

How to Store and Freeze Salted Honey Pie

Room Temperature: If you plan to serve your Salted Honey Pie the same day, it can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours to allow for the perfect serving temperature.
Fridge: Store any leftover pie tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors will meld beautifully, making each bite even more delightful.
Freezer: For longer storage, slice and wrap the pie pieces individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. For a warm treat, gently reheat in the oven at 250°F (120°C) for about 10 minutes, allowing the custard to regain its silky texture.

Salted Honey Pie Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine as you customize your Salted Honey Pie with these delightful twists!

Maple Syrup: Swap honey for maple syrup to capture a rich, warm flavor that adds a unique twist.
Gluten-Free: Substitute cornmeal with fine almond flour for a gluten-free version without compromising texture or flavor. This nutty alternative infuses a lovely richness.
Citrus Zest: Brighten up the pie by adding 1-2 teaspoons of lemon or orange zest to the filling. The added citrus will enhance the pie’s freshness beautifully.
Creamy Coconut: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a tropical take on your dessert. This delicious swap will create an exotic flavor profile that’s simply divine.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm undertone that pairs splendidly with the sweetness of the custard. The spices bring an inviting warmth, perfect for cooler days.
Chocolate Drizzle: For a luxe touch, drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the pie before serving. The rich chocolate complements the honey flavor for added decadence.
Nuts for Crunch: Top your pie with toasted pecans or walnuts for a lovely crunch that contrasts with the silky filling. A sprinkle of chopped nuts brings texture and flavor depth.
Berry Bliss: Serve with a side of fresh berries or a berry compote for a refreshing contrast to the sweet and salty pie. This pairing brightens every bite and adds a pop of color.

Whether you choose a simple swap or a more adventurous twist, these variations will allow you to enjoy the Salted Honey Pie in new and exciting ways! For additional flavor inspirations, consider trying our delicious Honey Peach Cream or the zesty Strawberry Honey Custard. Happy baking!

Salted Honey Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of honey should I use for optimal flavor?
Absolutely use high-quality honey for your Salted Honey Pie! I recommend wildflower or clover honey, as they add a lovely floral note to your custard. The quality of honey you choose can significantly impact the pie’s sweetness and overall taste, so don’t skimp on this essential ingredient.

How should I store leftovers, and how long will they last?
To keep your Salted Honey Pie fresh, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 4 days. I often find that the flavors meld beautifully during storage, making each bite even more flavorful!

Can I freeze the Salted Honey Pie?
Certainly! If you want to preserve your pie for longer, slice it and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, store the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or bag. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or gently warm in the oven.

What should I do if my pie doesn’t set properly after baking?
If your Salted Honey Pie hasn’t set properly—don’t worry! This can happen if it’s underbaked. Make sure you truly allow it to bake until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly. If you find yourself faced with a gooey center, pop it back in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overbaking.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, since this recipe contains eggs and dairy, it isn’t suitable for vegans. If you’re cooking for someone with a specific allergy, like egg or dairy, I recommend experimenting with alternatives. For a dairy-free version, you could substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a plant-based egg replacer.

Can I use a different type of sweetener instead of honey?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for an alternative, maple syrup can be a delightful substitute for honey in this pie. It will change the flavor profile slightly, but you’ll still achieve that sweet and salty balance. Just keep in mind that you may want to adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe accordingly to match your taste preferences.