Delight in Southern Comfort with Southern Buttermilk Pie

Prepare to indulge in a slice of Southern tradition with Southern Buttermilk Pie! This classic dessert is a beloved favorite across the South, known for its creamy texture, tangy flavor, and irresistible sweetness. With a simple yet satisfying combination of ingredients, including buttermilk, eggs, sugar, and a hint of citrus, Southern Buttermilk Pie captures the essence of Southern hospitality in every bite. Whether served as the perfect ending to a family meal or as a delightful treat for special occasions, this pie is sure to charm your taste buds and warm your heart. So, let’s dive into the world of Southern baking and learn how to create this timeless dessert in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1½ cups sugar
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (loosely packed)
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 prepared pastry crust

Instructions

Preparing the Filling:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and flour until well combined.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Stir in the buttermilk, melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Assembling the Pie:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Pour the prepared filling into the pastry crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
3. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any potential spills during baking.

Baking the Pie:

1. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
2. To check for doneness, gently jiggle the pie – the center should be slightly firm but still have a slight jiggle.

Cooling and Serving:

1. Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
2. Serve slices of Southern Buttermilk Pie at room temperature, and garnish with whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations

• Pie Crust Options: While a traditional pastry crust is classic, you can also use a graham cracker crust or a gluten-free crust for variation.
• Citrus Variations: Experiment with different citrus flavors by using orange zest and juice or lime zest and juice in place of the lemon.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a hint of warmth and complexity.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

Keto Version:

• Almond Flour Crust: Substitute the pastry crust with a low-carb almond flour crust for a keto-friendly option.
• Swerve Sweetener: Use a keto-friendly sweetener such as Swerve or monk fruit sweetener in place of sugar.
• Full-Fat Ingredients: Opt for full-fat buttermilk and butter to maintain the richness of the pie while keeping it keto-friendly.

Low-Carb Version:

• Coconut Flour Crust: Create a low-carb crust using coconut flour, almond flour, and butter for a grain-free option.
• Stevia or Erythritol: Sweeten the filling with a low-carb sweetener such as stevia or erythritol to reduce the carb content.
• Greek Yogurt: Replace some of the buttermilk with Greek yogurt to lower the carb count while maintaining creaminess.

In conclusion, Southern Buttermilk Pie is a timeless dessert that embodies the warmth and hospitality of the South. With its creamy texture, tangy flavor, and delicate sweetness, this pie is sure to become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection. Whether enjoyed as a comforting treat on a lazy afternoon or as the star of your next gathering, Southern Buttermilk Pie is guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfaction to all who taste it. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the simple joys of Southern baking with this delightful dessert!

Additional Tips and Tricks

• Chilling the Pie: For best results, refrigerate the pie for at least an hour before serving to allow the filling to set fully.
• Make-Ahead Option: Southern Buttermilk Pie can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving.
• Enhanced Flavor: For a deeper flavor profile, allow the lemon zest to sit in the sugar for 10-15 minutes before mixing with the other ingredients to release its oils.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve slices of Southern Buttermilk Pie with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.