Buttermilk pie Recipe : If you’re looking for a rich, creamy, and easy-to-make dessert, then Buttermilk Pie is a must-try! This Southern classic is made with simple pantry ingredients, yet delivers a smooth, custardy filling inside a flaky pie crust.
Buttermilk Pie is often confused with Chess Pie, but unlike Chess Pie, it does not contain cornmeal, resulting in a smoother texture. If you love Southern-style desserts, you might also enjoy Banana Pudding, another iconic creamy treat.
Before we dive into the recipe, if you don’t have buttermilk on hand, there are several buttermilk substitutes available. Learn how to make your own with Bon Appétit’s Buttermilk Substitutes Guide to keep your baking on track.
What is Buttermilk Pie?
Buttermilk Pie is a traditional Southern dessert with a sweet, tangy, and custard-like filling baked in a flaky pie crust.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Uses simple ingredients you already have at home.
- Tastes like a creamy, tangy custard in pie form.
- Perfect for holidays and family gatherings.
If you’re a fan of Southern baking, pair this pie with Sweet Potato Biscuits for an authentic Southern dessert spread.
The History of Buttermilk Pie
Buttermilk Pie has European origins, arriving in the American South with early settlers. Because buttermilk was inexpensive and readily available, it became a key ingredient in custard-based desserts.
Why It Became a Southern Favorite:
- Affordable & Simple – No special ingredients needed.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavor – Sweet, tangy, and creamy.
- Versatile – Can be served warm or cold.
For another historically beloved dessert, try Apple Puff Pastry, which also uses buttery, flaky layers.
Ingredients for Buttermilk Pie
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
For the Custard Filling:
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup melted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
🔹 Tip: For a gluten-free version, substitute with Gluten-Free Baking Tips.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Buttermilk Pie
1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the pie dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan.
- Blind bake for 10 minutes (optional for a crispier crust).
2: Mix the Custard Filling
- Whisk together sugar, flour, and melted butter in a bowl.
- Add eggs, vanilla, and buttermilk, whisking until smooth.
- Stir in lemon zest for extra flavor.
3: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the filling into the pie crust.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
- Let cool for at least 1 hour before slicing.
🔹 Tip: For best results, serve with whipped cream or Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream.
Creative Ways to Elevate Your Buttermilk Pie
While Buttermilk Pie is already a delicious classic, there are several creative ways to enhance its flavor, texture, and presentation. Whether you’re looking to add a modern twist, create a gourmet-style dessert, or make it suitable for special occasions, these creative upgrades will take your Buttermilk Pie to the next level!
1. Add a Flavor Boost with Spices & Extracts
Enhance the custard’s depth of flavor by adding warm spices or specialty extracts.
Best Spices to Add:
- Cinnamon or nutmeg – A classic holiday-inspired touch.
- Pumpkin spice – Perfect for fall-themed Buttermilk Pie
- Cardamom – Adds a floral, slightly citrusy note.
Flavor Extracts for Extra Depth:
- Almond extract – Gives a nutty, aromatic flavor.
- Coconut extract – Pairs well with toasted coconut toppings.
- Maple extract – Adds richness and warmth to the custard.
🔹 Tip: If you love spiced desserts, check out Classic Rice Pudding, another comforting, custard-like treat.
2. Upgrade Your Pie Crust
Instead of a traditional butter pie crust, try these creative crust alternatives:
Crust Variations:
- Graham Cracker Crust – Adds a crunchy, caramelized texture.
- Oreo Crust – Perfect for a chocolate-buttermilk pie twist.
- Shortbread Crust – Creates a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Nut Crust (Pecan or Almond) – Adds a nutty crunch and works well with cinnamon-spiced custard.
🔹 Tip: If you enjoy unique crusts, try Gluten-Free Bread Alternatives for more creative baking ideas!
3. Turn It into a Layered Dessert
Want a show-stopping presentation? Transform Buttermilk Pie into a layered dessert for added texture and contrast.
How to Create Layers:
- Caramel Base Layer: Pour a thin layer of caramel sauce at the bottom of the pie crust before adding the custard.
- Chocolate Ganache Layer: Spread a rich chocolate ganache over the baked pie for a silky, decadent finish.
- Berry Compote Swirl: Swirl raspberry or blueberry compote into the custard before baking.
🔹 Tip: If you love layered pies, try making No-Bake Cheesecake, another creamy, easy-to-layer dessert.
4. Create Mini Buttermilk Pies for Individual Servings
For parties, picnics, or portion control, bake mini Buttermilk Pies instead of one large pie.
How to Make Mini Buttermilk Pies:
- Use a muffin tin and press small circles of pie dough into each cup.
- Divide the filling evenly among the mini pie crusts.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the center is just set.
🔹 Tip: These make great gifts and can be paired with Sweet Potato Biscuits for a delicious Southern dessert platter.
5. Try a Frozen Buttermilk Pie Variation
For a refreshing summer twist, turn Buttermilk Pie into a frozen dessert!
How to Make Frozen Buttermilk Pie:
- Prepare and bake Buttermilk Pie as usual.
- Let it cool completely, then freeze for 2 hours.
- Serve semi-frozen with whipped cream and fresh fruit.
🔹 Tip: For a true frozen dessert, try Banana Pudding Milkshake, which captures the essence of Southern flavors in a drinkable form.
These creative upgrades will take your Buttermilk Pie from classic to gourmet! Whether you experiment with new flavors, unique crusts, layered versions, or frozen variations, there’s a Buttermilk Pie for every occasion.
Which twist will you try first? Let us know in the comments below! 🍰😊
Buttermilk Pie Variations to Try
1. Classic Buttermilk Pie
The traditional version is creamy, smooth, and delicious.
2. Lemon Buttermilk Pie
- Add extra lemon juice and zest for a bright citrus kick.
3. Chocolate Buttermilk Pie
- Stir in cocoa powder or melted chocolate.
4. Coconut Buttermilk Pie
- Add toasted coconut flakes for a tropical twist.
For another classic Southern dessert, check out Sweet Potato Pie.
Best Ways to Serve Buttermilk Pie
Toppings for Buttermilk Pie:
- Whipped cream or powdered sugar
- Fresh berries or caramel drizzle
Drink Pairings:
- Coffee or hot tea
- Sweet dessert wines
Looking for an easy no-bake alternative? Try No-Bake Cheesecake for a quick, creamy treat.
FAQs About Buttermilk Pie
1. What Does Buttermilk Pie Taste Like?
Buttermilk Pie has a smooth, custard-like texture with a rich, tangy-sweet flavor. The buttermilk provides a subtle tartness, balancing out the sweetness of sugar and vanilla. Some describe it as a cross between a sugar cream pie and a custard pie, but with a distinct Southern charm.
For an in-depth look at Southern Buttermilk Pie flavors, check out Southern Living’s Classic Buttermilk Pie Recipe.
2. Can I Make Buttermilk Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes! Buttermilk Pie is great for meal prep and can be made 1-2 days in advance.
- Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm slices in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes to restore texture.
For more details on pie storage and preservation, visit Allrecipes’ Buttermilk Pie Guide.
3. Why Did My Buttermilk Pie Crack?
Cracks in Buttermilk Pie happen when the custard is overbaked or experiences a rapid temperature change.
How to Prevent Cracks:
- Don’t overbake: Bake until the center is just set but slightly jiggly.
- Cool gradually: Let the pie cool slowly at room temperature before refrigerating.
- Use a water bath: Helps regulate heat and prevents cracking.
Learn more about baking custard pies without cracks in Pillsbury’s Buttermilk Pie Recipe.
4. Can I Use a Buttermilk Substitute?
Yes! If you don’t have real buttermilk, try these substitutes:
- Milk + Vinegar: Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar.
- Milk + Lemon Juice: Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
- Yogurt + Water: Mix ¾ cup plain yogurt with ¼ cup water.
For a full guide on buttermilk substitutes in baking, visit Bon Appétit’s Buttermilk Substitutes Guide.
5. What’s the Difference Between Buttermilk Pie and Chess Pie?
Buttermilk Pie and Chess Pie are both Southern custard pies, but they have key differences:
| Feature | Buttermilk Pie | Chess Pie |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Smooth, creamy custard | Slightly grainy due to cornmeal |
| Main Ingredient | Buttermilk | Cornmeal & vinegar |
| Flavor | Tangy, sweet, creamy | Rich, caramelized, slightly nutty |
For a side-by-side comparison and recipes, check out Southern Plate’s Buttermilk Pie Recipe.
6. Can I Make Buttermilk Pie Without a Crust?
Yes! You can make a crustless Buttermilk Pie, which turns it into a baked custard.
How to Make Crustless Buttermilk Pie:
- Grease a 9-inch pie pan with butter.
- Pour the custard mixture directly into the pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes.
For more variations, check out Humbly Rooted Home’s Simple Buttermilk Pie.
7. Can I Use a Graham Cracker Crust for Buttermilk Pie?
Absolutely! A graham cracker crust adds a sweet, crunchy texture that complements the custard filling.
How to Make a Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Instructions:
- Mix crumbs, butter, and sugar.
- Press into a 9-inch pie pan.
- Pre-bake at 350°F for 10 minutes, then add the filling.
For an alternative pie crust tutorial, visit Cleverly Simple’s Buttermilk Pie Recipe.
8. Is Buttermilk Pie Supposed to Be Jiggly When Done?
Yes! A perfectly baked Buttermilk Pie should be set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center.
How to Tell When Buttermilk Pie Is Done:
- Golden brown top with a slightly firm center.
- Jiggly but not liquidy when shaken.
- A clean toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
For expert baking tips, check out Southern Bite’s Buttermilk Pie Recipe.
9. Can I Add Toppings to Buttermilk Pie?
Yes! Toppings enhance the flavor and texture of Buttermilk Pie.
Best Toppings:
- Whipped cream for extra richness.
- Powdered sugar dusting for a classic finish.
- Fresh berries for a tart contrast.
- Caramel drizzle for added sweetness.
For topping inspirations, check out Allspice Blog’s Buttermilk Pie Recipe.
10. How Should I Serve Buttermilk Pie?
Buttermilk Pie can be served warm or chilled, depending on preference.
Best Pairings:
- With coffee or tea for a classic Southern experience.
- With vanilla ice cream for a contrast of warm and cold.
- With spiced cider for a fall-inspired treat.
For more Southern dessert pairings, check out Southern Plate’s Buttermilk Pie Guide.
Final Thoughts on Buttermilk Pie
Buttermilk Pie is a timeless Southern classic that is easy to make, rich in flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it plain, topped with fruit, or paired with coffee, this pie is a must-have for dessert lovers.
Key Takeaways:
- Custard-like texture with a tangy-sweet flavor.
- Perfect for make-ahead baking and meal prep.
- Easily customizable with lemon, chocolate, or coconut variations.
Now it’s your turn! Have you tried Buttermilk Pie? What’s your favorite way to serve it? Let us know in the comments! 🍰😊