Buttermilk Pie. The name itself evokes images of Southern charm, comforting flavors, and generations of bakers perfecting this simple yet sublime dessert. This creamy, tangy pie, encased in a flaky crust, isn’t just a treat; it’s a slice of history. And while many home cooks have their cherished versions, there’s a certain magic in exploring how culinary icons like The Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond, might approach this timeless recipe. Let’s dive into the delicious world of buttermilk pie and discover how to make a version that would make even Ree proud.
What is Buttermilk Pie? A Taste of Southern Heritage
Buttermilk pie is a quintessential Southern dessert, celebrated for its ease of preparation and unforgettable taste. Imagine a smooth, custard-like filling, perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy, thanks to the magic ingredient: buttermilk. This isn’t a pie loaded with fruit or chocolate; its beauty lies in its simplicity. Often compared to chess pie and sugar cream pie, buttermilk pie distinguishes itself with that signature buttermilk tang, sometimes enhanced with a hint of lemon, creating a flavor profile that is both comforting and subtly complex. It’s the kind of pie that graces holiday tables and casual gatherings alike, a testament to its universal appeal.
One of the remarkable aspects of buttermilk pie is its accessibility. You don’t need to be an expert baker to create a show-stopping buttermilk pie. The recipe relies on pantry staples and straightforward techniques, making it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether you’re looking for a last-minute dessert or a comforting treat to brighten any day, buttermilk pie delivers every time.
A single serving of buttermilk pie on a small white serving plate.
Why This Buttermilk Pie Recipe is a Must-Try
This recipe takes the classic buttermilk pie and elevates it with subtle nuances that enhance its flavor and texture. We’re talking about a creamy, custard filling that’s thick but not dense, with a whisper of lemon to brighten the richness. The use of a pre-made pie crust keeps things wonderfully simple, perfect for busy schedules without sacrificing homemade taste. This approach mirrors the practical, approachable style often associated with The Pioneer Woman, making delicious, from-scratch food accessible to everyone.
Think of this recipe as your go-to for any occasion. It’s undeniably a holiday favorite, fitting seamlessly into Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts. But its light, refreshing tang also makes it ideal for warmer months. Served chilled, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it transforms into a perfect summer dessert. It’s a year-round delight that embodies the spirit of Southern hospitality and home-baked goodness.
And speaking of Ree Drummond, if you appreciate the simplicity and deliciousness of this buttermilk pie, you might also enjoy exploring other classic pie recipes, perhaps even taking inspiration from The Pioneer Woman’s own repertoire. While she’s famous for many dishes, her approach to home cooking – making comforting, flavorful food with readily available ingredients – aligns perfectly with the ethos of a great buttermilk pie.
The Key Ingredients for Buttermilk Pie Perfection
Let’s break down the simple ingredients that come together to create this exceptional buttermilk pie:
- Granulated Sugar: The foundation of sweetness, providing the perfect counterpoint to the buttermilk’s tang.
- Unsalted Butter: For richness, flavor, and that melt-in-your-mouth creamy texture. Unsalted butter allows for better control over the pie’s overall saltiness.
- Eggs: Essential for binding the filling and creating that signature custard-like consistency. Using both whole eggs and an extra yolk enriches the texture.
- All-Purpose Flour: A small amount of flour helps to thicken the filling, ensuring a beautifully set pie that slices cleanly.
- Buttermilk: The star ingredient! Buttermilk imparts a unique tangy flavor and contributes to the pie’s creamy, moist texture.
- Lemon Zest and Lemon Juice: A touch of fresh lemon zest and juice brightens the pie, adding a subtle citrus note that complements the richness.
- Pure Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract enhances all the other flavors, adding a warm, aromatic depth.
- Fine Sea Salt: A pinch of salt is crucial for balancing the sweetness and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Ground Nutmeg (Optional): For a hint of warmth and spice, a pinch of nutmeg adds a lovely layer of flavor, especially welcome during cooler months.
- Premade Pie Crust: For convenience and consistent results, a pre-made pie crust is a fantastic shortcut. However, feel free to use your favorite homemade pie crust if you prefer.
- Powdered Sugar (Optional): A dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and extra sweetness for serving.
The labeled ingredients for buttermilk pie.
Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Your Buttermilk Pie
Ready to bake? Here’s how to create this delightful buttermilk pie:
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Get Started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and melted butter until well combined, forming a thick paste.
Adding sugar and butter to a large glass mixing bowl and mixing together until a thick paste is formed. -
Incorporate the Eggs: Whisk in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This step is key to a smooth filling.
Adding one egg at a time until the mixture is incorporated. -
Add Flour: Whisk in the all-purpose flour until the mixture is smooth and no clumps remain.
Adding flour into the egg mixture and stirring in. -
Introduce Buttermilk and Flavorings: Gradually pour in the buttermilk, whisking constantly to combine. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, salt, and nutmeg (if using). Whisk until everything is thoroughly mixed.
Stirring in buttermilk, cinnamon and vanilla into the batter. -
Fill the Pie Crust: Carefully pour the buttermilk pie filling into your pre-made pie crust.
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Bake to Perfection: Transfer the pie to the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The pie is done when the edges are set and the center has just a slight jiggle. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can cover the edges with a pie shield or aluminum foil.
Pouring the pie filling into a premade pie crust then baking in the oven until golden brown. -
Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely to room temperature before slicing and serving. Garnish with powdered sugar, if desired, and perhaps a few lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation.
Garnishing the pie with multiple thin lemon wedges.
Pro Tips for Buttermilk Pie Success
- Egg Incorporation: Whisk eggs in one at a time into the sugar and butter mixture for a smooth, well-emulsified batter.
- Oven Transfer: Be careful when moving the filled pie crust to the oven, as it will be quite full. Baking it on a rimmed baking sheet can prevent spills.
- Crust Browning: If the crust browns too quickly, use a pie shield or aluminum foil to protect it while the filling bakes.
- Cooling is Key: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This allows the filling to set properly, making it easier to cut and serve beautiful slices.
Buttermilk Pie vs. Chess Pie: What’s the Difference?
Both buttermilk pie and chess pie are beloved Southern classics, often found side-by-side on dessert tables. While they share similarities, there are key distinctions. Buttermilk pie, as we know, gets its signature tang and creamy texture from buttermilk, often enhanced by lemon. Chess pie, on the other hand, typically uses cornmeal as a thickener, resulting in a slightly different texture. Chess pie tends to be sweeter and richer, while buttermilk pie offers a more balanced sweetness with that characteristic buttermilk tang. Both are delicious, but if you appreciate a touch of tang and a supremely creamy filling, buttermilk pie is your winner.
An overhead image of a partially cut pie with multiple slices missing.
Troubleshooting: Why is My Buttermilk Pie Watery?
A watery buttermilk pie can be disappointing, but it’s usually easily avoided. The most common culprits are underbaking or too low of an oven temperature. Ensure the filling is mostly set, with just a slight jiggle in the center, before removing it from the oven. Also, using good quality, thick buttermilk is important. If your buttermilk seems thin, it could contribute to a watery pie. Baking the pie on the lower oven rack can also help the bottom crust cook thoroughly, preventing a soggy bottom and ensuring the filling sets correctly.
Storing and Freezing Your Buttermilk Pie
Buttermilk pie is best enjoyed fresh, but it also stores and freezes well. Store leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the whole pie or slices. Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions for Buttermilk Pie
Buttermilk pie is wonderful on its own, but a few simple accompaniments can elevate the experience. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream is always a welcome addition. Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, provide a bright, fruity contrast. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance. And for a truly Southern touch, serve it with a glass of sweet tea or a strong cup of coffee.
A slice of pie on a plate with a bite missing next to a fork.
A Buttermilk Pie to be Proud Of
This buttermilk pie recipe is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. It’s a dessert that embodies the warmth and approachability of home cooking, reminiscent of the kind of recipes you might find in The Pioneer Woman’s kitchen. With its creamy, tangy filling and flaky crust, it’s sure to become a new favorite for any occasion. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a slice of Southern comfort that everyone will love.
