Buttermilk Pie

Buttermilk pie is pure Southern comfort food. It's also one of the easiest, most irresistible pie recipes you can make for Thanksgiving! Par-bake a perfect pie crust, then whisk together a simple filling of butter, eggs, sugar, flour, and buttermilk. The pie bakes into a luscious, custard-like filling, with a layer of crunchy, caramelized sugar on top. It's so delicious, it needs no fancy toppings, though a sprinkle of powdered sugar, dollop of whipped cream, or fresh berries certainly never hurt. This Thanksgiving pie may just outshine all the pumpkin desserts at this year's feast!

Where did buttermilk pie originate?

It may seem Southern through-and-through, but, surprisingly, buttermilk pie is thought to have originated in England and been brought to the United States by settlers. With buttermilk being a longtime Southern staple, it won a special place in the hearts of Southerners, especially Texans where buttermilk was plentiful and cheap. Made with common pantry items, the pie became a year-round treat that could be made when fresh fruit pies weren't an option.

Can you use a store-bought crust for buttermilk pie?

Sure! It's impossible to beat the flakiness of a homemade pie crust, but a store-bought refrigerated pie crust works just fine for this pie.

What does buttermilk pie taste like?

Buttermilk pie tastes like a buttery, vanilla custard, baked into a flaky, also buttery pie crust. Buttermilk lends a pleasant creaminess, and lemon zest and juice help to boost the pies tang. It's a simple, sweet, tangy delight!

What is the difference between buttermilk pie and chess pie?

Both chess and buttermilk pies are baked similarly with just a few different ingredients. Both start with a mixture of butter, sugar and eggs. Buttermilk pie uses buttermilk for tartness and creaminess, whereas chess pie can be made with just whole milk. Buttermilk pie is thickened with flour only, whereas chess pie calls for using flour as well as cornmeal for texture. Typically, both pies have lemon juice and zest for added brightness and a pleasant lemon essence. Chess pie is a great option if you don't happen to have buttermilk in your fridge. Otherwise, make your own buttermilk from scratch or find an easy buttermilk substitute.

How can you tell if a buttermilk pie is done?

A buttermilk pie is baked through when the top is golden brown and the center is slightly jiggly. Because the surface of this pie bakes up firmly, the inside may still be slightly underdone, even with a slight jiggle. The most fool-proof way to tell if the pie has finished baking is to check its temperature with an instant-read thermometer. Insert the tip into the center of the pie. If it measures between 175 and 180 degrees, it's ready. Be sure to let the pie cool to room temperature before slicing. This should take about two hours.

What's the best way to store buttermilk pie?

Due to its custardy filling, this is a dessert you'll want to store in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. You can count on it staying good for three to four days.

Can you freeze buttermilk pie?

Yes, buttermilk pie can be frozen for up to three months. Once the pie has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in a layer of plastic, then foil. Let the pie thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.