Southern Buttermilk Pie

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With its creamy center and sugary crust, Southern Buttermilk Pie is the kind of dessert that brings everyone back for seconds. This nostalgic favorite is rich, tangy, and just sweet enough, wrapped in a buttery, flaky crust. It’s simple to make but carries the comforting charm of generations-old recipes passed down through Southern kitchens.

The real magic of this pie is the custard filling—a luscious blend of buttermilk, eggs, butter, and vanilla with a slight caramelized crunch on top. Whether served chilled from the fridge or warm with a dollop of whipped cream, it’s perfect for any gathering, holiday, or weeknight treat.

What Kind of Buttermilk Should I Use?

Full-fat cultured buttermilk is best for this recipe. It offers the tangy flavor and rich texture that give this pie its signature custard-like bite. Avoid low-fat or nonfat versions if you want that creamy Southern depth.

Ingredients for the Southern Buttermilk Pie

• Buttermilk: The star ingredient, it adds tang and richness to the pie filling.
• Sugar: White granulated sugar sweetens the pie while also creating that signature golden-brown top.
• Butter: Melted butter brings richness and smooth texture to the custard base.
• Eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients and creating a firm custard filling.
• All-purpose Flour: Just a bit helps thicken the filling and maintain structure.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, sweet background note.
• Salt: Balances out the sweetness.
• Unbaked Pie Crust: A buttery shell that crisps beautifully around the soft filling.

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How To Make the Southern Buttermilk Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place your unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges. Set it aside while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, and eggs until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and buttermilk, stirring until fully combined.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle in the flour and salt. Mix just until everything is blended. Be careful not to overmix—you want a silky custard.

Step 4: Fill the Pie Crust

Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust. Gently tap the pie dish on the counter to release any air bubbles.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the pie for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. The filling will puff up slightly and settle as it cools.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the pie cool completely before slicing. You can serve it at room temperature or chilled, depending on your preference.

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Serving and Storing This Classic Pie

Southern Buttermilk Pie can be served warm, but it truly shines once chilled. The custard firms up perfectly, making for clean slices and a smooth bite. Store leftovers in the refrigerator, loosely covered with plastic wrap or foil, for up to 4 days. For a make-ahead dessert, it also freezes well—just wrap tightly and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

What to Serve With Southern Buttermilk Pie?

Whipped Cream

A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds an airy touch to the pie’s rich custard.

Fresh Berries

Sliced strawberries or blueberries offer a pop of freshness and color.

Lemon Zest

A sprinkle of zest balances the richness with a citrusy brightness.

Hot Coffee

The pie’s sweetness pairs beautifully with a bold cup of black coffee.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Especially when served warm, this combo is irresistible.

Southern Iced Tea

For a full Southern experience, a glass of sweet tea complements the pie perfectly.

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Want More Pie Ideas?

If you’re loving this Southern Buttermilk Pie, you might want to try these other delightful slices of comfort:

• Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie for a fruity twist.
• White Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake for an elegant indulgence.
• Chocolate Chess Pie if you love deep, fudgy flavor.
• Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls for a portable pie-inspired treat.
• Double Crust Cheesecake for double the decadence.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of bourbon or a drizzle of glaze? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on Savor Queen’s Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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