Salted Honey Pie
There’s something irresistibly comforting about a pie that combines the best of both worlds—sweet and salty. And that’s exactly what this Salted Honey Pie delivers. With its luscious, creamy custard filling that’s rich in caramelized flavor, balanced with a delightful hint of sea salt, this pie is perfect for any occasion. It evokes the warmth of homemade goodness while offering a modern twist. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, the unique blend of flavors will surely impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of honey and sea salt creates a dynamic balance that enhances every bite.
- Easy Preparation: This Salted Honey Pie can be made without pre-baking the crust, simplifying your baking process.
- Versatile Dessert: Ideal for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to holiday celebrations.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The sweet and salty flavors appeal to dessert lovers of all ages.
- Homemade Goodness: Creating this pie offers the satisfaction of making a delicious dessert from scratch.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making the Salted Honey Pie, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 8-inch or 9-inch pie pan (deep dish)
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Pie pan: A sturdy pie pan ensures even cooking and helps maintain the shape of your pie.
- Medium saucepan: This is essential for creating your custard filling, allowing for consistent heating and mixing.
- Whisk: A good whisk aids in blending ingredients smoothly, especially when tempering egg yolks.
- Ladle: Using a ladle allows you to add hot mixtures gradually and safely without scrambling your eggs.
Ingredients
- Pie crust (refrigerated or homemade)
- 4 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
- 2 1/2 cups (600 ml) heavy whipping cream
- 2/3 cup (150 g) packed light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup (45 g) cornstarch, sifted
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) honey
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
How to Make Salted Honey Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Begin by preparing the pie crust in either an 8-inch deep dish or a 9-inch pie pan. Place it in the fridge to chill while you prepare the filling. The cold crust helps it bake evenly and prevents shrinking.
Step 2: Combine Filling Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine:
Heavy whipping cream
Brown sugar
Cornstarch
Salt
Set over medium heat and stir constantly until it reaches a rolling boil. The mixture will begin to thicken as it heats.
Step 3: Temper the Egg Yolks
Once boiling, remove from heat. To temper the egg yolks:
1. Ladle some hot cream mixture into the egg yolks while whisking continuously.
2. Gradually add more cream mixture until fully combined.
This step prevents the eggs from cooking too quickly.
Step 4: Mix in Honey and Vanilla
Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with remaining cream. Stir until smooth, then add:
Honey
Vanilla extract
Mix thoroughly until incorporated.
Step 5: Fill the Crust
Pour the custard mixture into the chilled pie crust. Ensure it’s slightly warm but not hot to avoid any air pockets. Spread evenly across the crust.
Step 6: Bake the Pie
Place in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 40-45 minutes until bubbling and slightly browned on top. It may look jiggly; this is normal as it will firm up while cooling.
Step 7: Cooling Process
Allow the pie to cool on the counter until room temperature. Refrigerate until completely chilled for optimal texture.
Step 8: Add Sea Salt Topping
Before serving, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top. This enhances sweetness while adding texture to each bite.
Step 9: Slice and Serve
Slice into 8-10 portions and serve chilled. Enjoy this delightful Salted Honey Pie with friends or family!
How to Serve Salted Honey Pie
Serving Salted Honey Pie can elevate any occasion. Its rich, creamy filling and the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors make it a delightful dessert for gatherings or quiet nights in.
Classic Presentation
- Serve slices on individual plates with a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
Whipped Cream Delight
- Top each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The lightness complements the rich custard perfectly.
- Add a sprinkle of cocoa powder on top for a beautiful finish.
Ice Cream Pairing
- Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The cold will contrast nicely with the warm flavors of the pie.
- Try adding a touch of caramel sauce over the ice cream for added indulgence.
Fruit Accompaniments
- Pair with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries to add a tartness that balances the sweetness.
- A side of sliced peaches or pears can also enhance the overall experience.
Coffee or Tea Service
- Offer freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea as a beverage option. The warmth from these drinks pairs wonderfully with the pie’s flavors.
- Consider flavored teas, such as chai or vanilla, to complement the honey notes.
How to Perfect Salted Honey Pie
Perfecting your Salted Honey Pie is key to impressing your guests and ensuring every bite is as delightful as possible.
- Chill the crust: Always chill your pie crust before baking. This prevents shrinkage and helps achieve that flaky texture.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Bring your eggs and cream to room temperature before mixing. This ensures better incorporation and a smoother custard.
- Whisk constantly when heating: Stir continuously while cooking the custard mixture to avoid lumps and ensure even thickening.
- Don’t rush tempering: Take your time when tempering the egg yolks with the hot mixture. This step is crucial for preventing curdling in your custard.
- Cool completely before slicing: Allow your pie to cool fully at room temperature before refrigerating. This ensures it sets properly for clean slices later.
- Experiment with toppings: Try different toppings like crushed nuts or flavored whipped cream to create variations on this classic dessert.
Best Side Dishes for Salted Honey Pie
Complementing your Salted Honey Pie with the right side dishes enhances its flavors and makes for an unforgettable meal experience.
- Candied Pecans: Sweet, crunchy pecans provide an excellent textural contrast to the smooth custard.
- Caramelized Apples: Warm, spiced apples can bring out additional flavors in the honey pie while adding seasonal charm.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness from roasted Brussels sprouts can balance out the sweetness of the pie beautifully.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like Brie or goat cheese pairs well with honey and adds sophistication to your serving table.
- Chocolate Mousse: Rich chocolate mousse offers a luxurious touch that complements the sweet and salty notes of the pie.
- Vanilla Panna Cotta: A light panna cotta can serve as a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of rich pie.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad brings brightness and acidity, making it an excellent counterpoint to the pie’s richness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Salted Honey Pie, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the pie crust can lead to a tough texture. Always refrigerate the crust before filling it to ensure flakiness.
- Overheating the cream mixture: Boiling the cream too vigorously can cause lumps. Heat gently and stir constantly to achieve a smooth custard.
- Rushing the egg tempering: Adding hot cream too quickly can scramble the yolks. Gradually mix in the cream while whisking to avoid this.
- Baking too long: Overbaking can result in a grainy custard. Keep an eye on the pie and remove it when it’s slightly jiggly; it will set as it cools.
- Not letting it cool properly: Cutting into the pie before it has cooled can lead to a runny filling. Allow it to reach room temperature and chill fully before slicing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Cover with plastic wrap if you don’t have a container, ensuring minimal air exposure.
Freezing Salted Honey Pie
- Wrap slices of pie tightly in plastic wrap, then place them into a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Salted Honey Pie
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pie slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use medium power to heat individual slices for 30-second intervals until warm, being cautious not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Heat on low in a non-stick skillet, covering with a lid, for about 5 minutes or until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about Salted Honey Pie with these common questions:
What is Salted Honey Pie?
Salted Honey Pie is a delicious dessert that features a creamy custard filling made with honey, brown sugar, and a hint of sea salt, all nestled in a flaky pie crust.
How do I make my Salted Honey Pie crust flaky?
To achieve flakiness, use cold butter and chill your pie crust before baking. This helps create layers that result in a tender texture.
Can I make Salted Honey Pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare Salted Honey Pie a day or two ahead. Just be sure to store it properly in the refrigerator after cooling.
What can I serve with Salted Honey Pie?
Salted Honey Pie pairs beautifully with fresh whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. A drizzle of honey or caramel sauce also adds an extra touch.
Can I customize this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg or even incorporating different types of sweeteners alongside honey.
Final Thoughts
Salted Honey Pie is an indulgent treat that balances creamy sweetness with delightful saltiness. Its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion, whether casual or festive. Feel free to customize the flavors or toppings to suit your taste!
Salted Honey Pie
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 8 slices 1x
Description
Salted Honey Pie is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances sweet and salty flavors, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. With its luscious custard filling infused with honey and a hint of sea salt, this pie is not only comforting but also offers a modern twist on a classic favorite. Easy to prepare without the need for pre-baking the crust, it’s great for family dinners or festive gatherings. Each slice delivers a creamy texture and rich caramel notes, topped with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for added flair. Impress your guests with this unique dessert that speaks to both tradition and innovation.
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust (refrigerated or homemade)
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- ⅔ cup light brown sugar
- ⅓ cup cornstarch
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup honey
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Flaky sea salt (for topping)
Instructions
- Chill the pie crust in an 8-inch deep dish or a 9-inch pan.
- In a medium saucepan, mix heavy cream, brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt over medium heat until boiling.
- Temper the egg yolks by gradually adding the hot cream mixture while whisking continuously.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan, stir in honey and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour the custard into the chilled crust and bake at 375°F for 40-45 minutes until slightly jiggly.
- Cool at room temperature before refrigerating until fully chilled.
- Before serving, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
