Name: Classic Buttermilk Pie
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 3 large eggs; 1 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional); 1 9-inch unbaked pie crust

Buttermilk Pie is the kind of Southern classic that tastes like home. With its golden-brown top, rich custard-like filling, and flaky pie crust, this dessert is the perfect harmony of creamy, tangy, and sweet. It comes together with simple pantry staples, yet it tastes like something straight from Grandma’s kitchen.

This pie is ideal for holiday gatherings, lazy Sunday dinners, or when you’re simply craving an old-fashioned treat that doesn’t involve hours in the kitchen. It’s a breeze to whip up, and once chilled, it slices beautifully with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

What Kind of Pie Crust Should I Use?

For a truly classic experience, use a homemade buttery pie crust. However, store-bought refrigerated pie crusts also work wonderfully for convenience. Just make sure it’s unbaked when you pour in the filling. Blind baking is not required for this pie, making it even more approachable.

Ingredients for the Classic Buttermilk Pie

Buttermilk – This tangy ingredient is the heart of the recipe, lending a subtle tartness that balances the sweetness.

Granulated Sugar – Provides the essential sweetness to contrast the creamy texture.

Eggs – Help set the custard and give the pie structure.

Butter – Adds richness and depth of flavor.

All-Purpose Flour – Slightly thickens the custard to achieve the perfect sliceable texture.

Vanilla Extract – Brings warmth and rounds out the custard’s flavor.

Lemon Zest (Optional) – A hint of zest can brighten up the pie with a touch of citrus.

Unbaked Pie Crust – The buttery base that holds all the luscious filling together.

How To Make the Classic Buttermilk Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar and flour. Add the eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each. Pour in the buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract (plus lemon zest if using). Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Fill and Bake

Pour the filling into the unbaked pie crust. Carefully transfer to the oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is just set.

Step 4: Cool and Chill

Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to let the filling firm up beautifully.

Serving and Storing Classic Buttermilk Pie

This pie is delicious served cold or at room temperature. For the cleanest slices, chill it well before cutting. Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just wrap it tightly in plastic and foil.

What to Serve With Classic Buttermilk Pie?

Fresh Berries

A side of strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries complements the creamy custard perfectly.

Whipped Cream

Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy contrast to the dense pie.

Iced Coffee

A cold brew or vanilla iced latte balances the sweetness with some bitter notes.

Southern Fried Chicken

Make it a full Southern meal with crispy fried chicken as the savory course.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Their earthy sweetness pairs well with the pie for a cozy fall vibe.

Want More Pie Ideas?

If this Classic Buttermilk Pie hits the spot, you’ll love diving into these delicious pie recipes next:

Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie with a rich twist on fruit pie.
Double Crust Cheesecake for something ultra-decadent.
Shamrock Mint Milkshake Pie when you’re in the mood for minty freshness.
Chocolate Chess Pie for chocolate lovers craving a dense, fudgy treat.
Pineapple Condensed Milk Cake if you enjoy tropical notes.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this golden, creamy slice of nostalgia to your favorite Pinterest board for when the next pie craving hits.

Tried this with a twist? Maybe a dash of nutmeg or swapped in browned butter? I’d love to hear how you personalized it—drop your ideas or questions in the comments!

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on Savor Queen on Pinterest. You’ll find everything from sweet treats to dinner ideas waiting for you.

Classic Buttermilk Pie

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 1 pie (8 slices)
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Bring a slice of Southern comfort into your kitchen with this Classic Buttermilk Pie. With its silky custard filling, rich buttermilk tang, and buttery crust, it’s the kind of easy dessert that never goes out of style. Whether you’re planning a holiday menu or searching for simple dessert ideas, this timeless favorite fits the bill. It’s a fantastic quick dessert for potlucks, Sunday dinners, or even make-ahead treats for the week. With just a handful of pantry staples, it’s also one of those easy recipes that delivers homemade flavor every time. Perfect if you’re hunting for sweet food ideas, easy pies, or something unique to bring to a gathering.