Mom’s Favorite Buttermilk Pie: A Classic Southern Delight

If you’re looking for a comforting, sweet dessert that’s rich in flavor and easy to make, Mom’s Favorite Buttermilk Pie is the perfect choice. This Southern classic is known for its creamy texture and slightly tangy taste, balanced by the sweetness of sugar and the warmth of nutmeg. It’s the kind of pie that’s sure to become a family favorite, just like it is in many Southern kitchens.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40-60 minutes
Total Time: 50-70 minutes
Servings: 8
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American (Southern)
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 3 eggs
• 1 ½ cups white sugar
• ½ cup butter, softened
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ⅛ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your pie bakes evenly and reaches the perfect golden brown crust.

2. Beat the Eggs: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the eggs until frothy. This will help create a light texture for the filling.

3. Add Sugar, Butter, and Flour: Add the white sugar, softened butter, and all-purpose flour to the eggs. Beat until smooth and well combined. The flour will help thicken the filling while the butter adds richness.

4. Stir in the Remaining Ingredients: Add the buttermilk, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and freshly grated nutmeg to the mixture. Stir everything together until smooth. The buttermilk gives the pie its signature tang, while the lemon juice and vanilla add layers of flavor.

5. Pour into the Pie Shell: Carefully pour the prepared filling into the unbaked pie crust. Make sure the filling is evenly distributed.

6. Bake the Pie: Bake the pie in your preheated oven for 40 to 60 minutes. The pie is done when the center is firm and no longer jiggles. You may need to check the pie at the 40-minute mark and then every 5 minutes after, depending on your oven.

7. Cool Before Serving: Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 1 hour before serving. This will help the filling set and give you perfect slices.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Yet Delicious: With only a few basic ingredients, this pie is easy to make but delivers big flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy a homemade dessert without hours in the kitchen.

Creamy and Tangy: The combination of buttermilk and lemon juice gives the pie a slightly tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the sugar, creating a rich, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner, a holiday feast, or a casual get-together, this buttermilk pie is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Budget-Friendly: The ingredients for this pie are simple and affordable, making it an excellent option for a homemade dessert on a budget.

Tips for Success

• Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter is crucial for achieving a smooth filling. If your butter is too cold, it will be difficult to mix and may create lumps in the filling.
• Check the Pie Early: Baking times can vary depending on the oven and the thickness of your pie. Start checking the pie at the 40-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
• Let It Cool: Allow the pie to cool for at least 1 hour before slicing. This helps the filling firm up and makes it easier to cut clean slices.
• Add a Little Cinnamon: For an extra touch of warmth, you can sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top before baking or after the pie has cooled.

Popular Questions

1. Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Yes, you can use a pre-made pie crust if you’re short on time. Just be sure to bake the pie in the pre-made crust according to the instructions, or use an unbaked crust for the best results.

2. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! Buttermilk pie can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil.

3. Can I freeze buttermilk pie?
Yes, you can freeze buttermilk pie. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly and freeze. When you’re ready to serve, let it thaw in the fridge for several hours.

4. Can I substitute buttermilk with regular milk?
Buttermilk is a key ingredient in this pie, as it adds tanginess and helps thicken the filling. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with a mixture of regular milk and a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.

5. Why did my pie not set properly?
If your pie didn’t set, it may have needed more time in the oven. Be sure to bake it until the center is firm. If the crust is getting too brown before the center is set, cover the edges with foil and continue baking