Southern Buttermilk Pie

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Southern Buttermilk Pie is a golden classic, baked to perfection with simple pantry staples and just the right touch of Southern charm. With a flaky crust and a rich, custard-like filling that’s both tangy and sweet, this pie has stood the test of time for good reason. Its silky texture and comforting flavor profile make it ideal for holidays, Sunday dinners, or even an impromptu weeknight treat when you’re craving something nostalgic and homemade.

The beauty of Southern Buttermilk Pie lies in its balance—it’s not too sweet, not too tart, and carries a hint of vanilla with a slight tang from the buttermilk. There’s no need for fancy toppings or techniques. Just pour, bake, and let the magic happen in your oven. This recipe is the kind of dessert your grandmother probably made, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it keeps showing up at Southern tables generation after generation.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Buttermilk Pie

You’re going to love this recipe because it’s as effortless as it is elegant. You don’t need a mixer, exotic ingredients, or special skills. The filling whisks together in minutes, and the result is a custardy slice of pure comfort with a golden top and just-set center. It’s also a great make-ahead dessert, storing well and tasting even better chilled.

Whether you’re entertaining or simply treating yourself, this pie hits the sweet spot between easy and impressive. It’s a little slice of Southern hospitality in dessert form.

What Kind of Crust Should I Use?

Traditionally, Southern Buttermilk Pie is made with a classic flaky pie crust, and that’s still the best option. You can go with a homemade crust if you want a rustic, buttery finish, or use a quality store-bought crust for convenience. Make sure the crust is unbaked before filling—it will cook through beautifully in the oven alongside the custard.

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Ingredients for the Southern Buttermilk Pie

This pie keeps it simple, relying on staple ingredients you likely already have on hand. Each one plays a key role in the pie’s classic flavor and texture.

• Unsalted butter
  Adds richness and structure to the custard filling. Melted butter ensures a silky texture.
• Granulated sugar
  Brings the perfect amount of sweetness that caramelizes slightly on top during baking.
• Large eggs
  Help the custard set and give the pie its soft yet stable structure.
• Buttermilk
  Provides a gentle tang that makes this pie distinct. Full-fat buttermilk is best.
• All-purpose flour
  Used to thicken the filling just enough so it holds when sliced.
• Vanilla extract
  Rounds out the flavor with warmth and depth.
• Lemon zest
  A hint of brightness that lifts the custard without overpowering it.
• Unbaked pie crust
  Acts as the buttery base, supporting the custard as it bakes into golden goodness.

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How To Make the Southern Buttermilk Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and lightly crimp the edges. Set it aside while you make the filling.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition until the mixture is smooth and pale.

Step 3: Add Buttermilk and Flavorings

Whisk in the buttermilk, flour, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until the mixture is well blended. The batter will be loose—that’s exactly how it should be.

Step 4: Pour and Bake

Carefully pour the filling into the unbaked crust. Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the center is just set and the top is golden with tiny bubbles.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack. You can serve it at room temperature or chilled, depending on your preference. The custard will firm up more as it cools.

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How to Serve and Store Southern Buttermilk Pie

This recipe feeds 8 and is perfect on its own or with a light topping. A dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar can elevate it just enough without distracting from its old-school charm.

To store, keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the pie (tightly wrapped) for up to a month. Just allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

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What to Serve With Southern Buttermilk Pie?

Whipped Cream

A swirl of freshly whipped cream complements the tangy custard and makes each bite feel extra indulgent.

Fresh Berries

Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries offer a juicy contrast to the creamy filling.

Sweet Tea

Nothing screams Southern comfort like a cold glass of sweet tea alongside a warm slice of pie.

Bourbon or Irish Coffee

Perfect for turning this dessert into a dinner party finale with a Southern twist.

Salted Caramel Drizzle

Adds a rich sweetness that pairs beautifully with the lemony undertones.

Roasted Peaches

For a late-summer variation, serve with warm peaches to echo the Southern flavors.

Lemon Ice Cream

For citrus lovers, lemon ice cream brightens up the dish and complements the zest in the filling.

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Want More Pie Ideas?

If this Southern Buttermilk Pie has you dreaming of more comforting dessert creations, take a peek at these other crowd-pleasers:

• Easy Banana Cream Pie Recipe for a cool, creamy delight.
• Southern Banana Cobbler Recipe when you crave spoonable comfort.
• Pineapple Cheese Pie for a sweet tropical twist on classic pie.

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Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you zest the lemon or skip it? Did you sneak in a splash of bourbon? I love hearing how you make this your own.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

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Conclusion

Southern Buttermilk Pie is that rare dessert that brings simplicity and elegance together in one slice. With every bite, it delivers a taste of the past and the comfort of home. Whether it’s your first time baking it or your fiftieth, this pie has a way of making you feel like you’re back at your grandmother’s kitchen table, fork in hand, smile on face.

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