Buttermilk Slab Pie: A Deliciously Creamy Delight

Indulge in the creamy richness of Buttermilk Slab Pie, a Southern-inspired dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious. This recipe combines the tangy goodness of buttermilk with a buttery crust, creating a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, this slab pie is sure to be a hit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Before we delve into the recipe, let’s address some common queries about this delightful dessert:

Q: Can I use store-bought pie crusts for this recipe? A: Absolutely! While homemade pie crusts add a personal touch, you can certainly use pre-made crusts for convenience. Just make sure they’re unbaked before assembling the pie.

Q: Can I substitute whole milk for buttermilk? A: While whole milk can be used as a substitute, it won’t impart the same tangy flavor that buttermilk provides. However, you can create a homemade buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Q: Is this pie overly sweet with 4 cups of sugar? A: The sweetness of the pie is balanced by the tanginess of the buttermilk. However, you can adjust the sugar to your taste preferences if desired. Some variations of this recipe use less sugar without compromising the texture or flavor.

Q: Can I freeze Buttermilk Slab Pie? A: Yes, you can freeze the pie after baking. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a low oven until warmed through.

Now, let’s gather our ingredients and embark on this delightful baking journey.

Ingredients:

• 2 9-inch pie crusts, unbaked
• 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups granulated sugar
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 6 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Ground or fresh grated nutmeg, as needed

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place one unbaked pie crust in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, trimming any excess dough around the edges.

2. Prepare Filling

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and granulated sugar until well combined.
• Add the buttermilk, softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, salt, and a generous sprinkle of nutmeg. Mix until smooth and creamy.

3. Assemble Pie

• Pour the filling mixture over the prepared pie crust in the baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
• Place the second unbaked pie crust on top of the filling, trimming any excess dough and crimping the edges to seal.

4. Bake

• Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
• If the crust begins to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

5. Cool and Serve

• Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing and serving.
• Serve slices of Buttermilk Slab Pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• For a more pronounced nutmeg flavor, freshly grate nutmeg over the top of the pie just before serving.
• You can add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the filling for a hint of citrus brightness.
• Experiment with different extracts such as almond or rum for unique flavor twists.

Keto Version:

• To make a keto-friendly version of this pie, you can use a low-carb pie crust made with almond flour or coconut flour, and substitute the granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia. Additionally, use a lower-carb milk alternative like almond milk or coconut milk mixed with a little heavy cream for richness.

Low-Carb Version:

• Follow the keto version substitutions mentioned above, but you can also reduce the amount of sweetener used in the filling to further decrease the carb content.

In conclusion, Buttermilk Slab Pie is a timeless classic that never fails to delight. With its creamy texture, delicate sweetness, and subtle hints of nutmeg, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring a slice all to yourself, this pie is sure to leave a lasting impression.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the comforting bliss of Buttermilk Slab Pie. From the first bite to the last crumb, you’ll be transported to a world of pure indulgence and culinary delight. Enjoy every moment of this delicious journey!