Southern Buttermilk Pie

Ingredients

• For the Pie Crust:
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 4-5 tablespoons ice water
• For the Filling:
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pie Crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer it to a 9-inch pie pan, pressing it gently into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges as desired.
5. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar and eggs until well combined. Add the buttermilk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and flour. If using, add the nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor. Mix until smooth.
6. Fill the Crust: Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
8. Cool: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will help the filling firm up further.