Southern pies are known for their rich, buttery flavor, and this “Best Southern Pie Ever” lives up to that reputation. With a velvety custard filling, a touch of sweetness, and a perfectly flaky crust, this pie is comfort food at its finest. It’s simple to make and the perfect end to a Sunday dinner or holiday celebration. Grab a slice and enjoy a taste of the South!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into small cubes)
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough begins to come together. Be careful not to overmix.
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch pie plate. Transfer the dough to the pie plate, trim the edges, and crimp if desired.
- Line the pie crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights. Blind bake for 10-12 minutes, then remove the parchment and weights. Let the crust cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and melted butter until well combined.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
- Stir in the buttermilk, flour, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the filling is smooth.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the filling into the partially baked pie crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Cooking Notes
- Pie Crust: You can use a store-bought pie crust if you’re short on time, but making your own crust gives this pie an extra special homemade touch.
- Buttermilk: The buttermilk adds a tangy richness that makes the filling creamy and flavorful. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Nutmeg: Freshly grated nutmeg adds the best flavor, but pre-ground nutmeg will work just fine if that’s what you have on hand.
Variations
Lemon Southern Pie
- Add the zest of one lemon and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to the filling for a bright citrus twist.
Pecan-Topped Southern Pie
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup of chopped pecans over the filling before baking for a delicious nutty crunch.
Chocolate Southern Pie
- Stir 1/4 cup of melted semisweet chocolate into the filling mixture for a chocolaty twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes! This pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together.
How Should I Store Leftover Pie?
Store leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy them warm.
Can I Freeze This Pie?
Yes, you can freeze the baked pie. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
What Should I Serve With This Pie?
This pie is perfect on its own, but you can serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
The Best Southern Pie Ever is a classic that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Its rich, custardy filling paired with a flaky crust makes for an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you make it for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just because, this pie is bound to bring smiles all around.
Enjoy baking, and savor every slice of this Southern comfort classic! Feel free to share this recipe with loved ones, and bring a little taste of the South to everyone’s table.
