Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Simple Ingredients: Utilizes common pantry items, making it an accessible dessert to prepare.
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Classic Southern Flavor: Offers a nostalgic taste that’s both sweet and slightly tangy.
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Easy Preparation: Requires minimal prep time and is straightforward to bake.
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Versatile Serving Options: Delicious served warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
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Customizable: Can be enhanced with additions like lemon zest, nutmeg, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1½ cups granulated sugar
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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3 large eggs
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1 cup buttermilk
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust
Directions
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, beat together the sugar and melted butter until smooth.
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Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs into the mixture, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: Add the flour, vanilla extract, and ground nutmeg to the bowl, mixing until combined.
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Add Buttermilk: Stir in the buttermilk until the filling is smooth and well-blended.
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Fill Pie Crust: Pour the prepared filling into the unbaked pie crust.
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Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 55–60 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
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Cool: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 8 slices
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Bake Time: 55–60 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour 10–15 minutes
Variations
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Lemon Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the filling for a citrusy twist.
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Nutmeg: Sprinkle additional ground nutmeg on top before baking for enhanced flavor.
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Whipped Cream: Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
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Spices: Incorporate a pinch of ground cinnamon or cloves for a spiced version.
Storage/Reheating
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Refrigeration: Store the pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: Wrap the pie tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
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Serving: Serve chilled, at room temperature, or slightly warmed.
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes, a store-bought 9-inch pie crust can be used for
Is buttermilk essential for this recipe?
Yes, buttermilk provides the characteristic tang and texture.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely, the pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
How do I know when the pie is done?
The center should be set and the top golden brown. A slight jiggle is
Can I add nuts to the filling?
Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts can be added for added texture.
How should I store leftovers?
Cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be substituted, though it may slightly alter the flavor.
Is this pie gluten-free?
Traditional buttermilk pie contains flour. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I use a different type of milk?
For best results, use buttermilk. Substitutes may alter the flavor and texture.
How long does the pie last?
When properly stored, the pie lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Buttermilk Pie is a timeless Southern dessert that combines simplicity with delightful flavor. Its creamy custard filling and slightly tangy taste make it a comforting choice for any occasion. Whether enjoyed warm, chilled, or at room temperature, this pie is sure to please. Its easy preparation and versatile nature make it a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

Buttermilk Pie
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55–60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10–15 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Buttermilk Pie is a classic Southern dessert with a creamy, custard-like filling that balances sweetness and tanginess. Made with simple ingredients like buttermilk, sugar, and eggs, this pie is easy to prepare and offers a comforting treat for any occasion. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or as an everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
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1½ cups granulated sugar
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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3 large eggs
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1 cup buttermilk
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust
Instructions
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Preheat Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). -
Prepare Filling:
In a large bowl, beat together the sugar and melted butter until smooth. -
Add Eggs:
Incorporate the eggs into the mixture, one at a time, beating well after each addition. -
Mix Dry Ingredients:
Add the flour, vanilla extract, and ground nutmeg to the bowl, mixing until combined. -
Add Buttermilk:
Stir in the buttermilk until the filling is smooth and well-blended. -
Fill Pie Crust:
Pour the prepared filling into the unbaked pie crust. -
Bake:
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 55–60 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. -
Cool:
Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing
Notes
Lemon Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the filling for a citrusy twist.Storage: Store the pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months.