There’s something irresistibly charming about savoring a slice of Salted Honey Pie, especially when the mood calls for a delightful dessert that feels both indulgent and comforting. The moment you bring this pie to the table, the sweet-salty aroma tells a story of Southern tradition blended with creativity. I stumbled upon this delightful treat while searching for ways to elevate my dessert game, and it quickly became a favorite in my home.

Imagine a creamy custard filling infused with rich honey, all wrapped in a crisp pie crust that provides just the right texture. This isn’t just another dessert; it’s a luxurious treat that impresses yet is incredibly simple to whip up with staple ingredients found right in your pantry. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual weeknight dinner, this Salted Honey Pie is the perfect finale that everyone will be raving about. Trust me, your taste buds are in for a delightful surprise!

Why is Salted Honey Pie so special?

Decadent, creamy goodness: The generous honey filling creates a rich custard experience that will have everyone coming back for more.
Irresistible sweet-salty balance: A sprinkle of sea salt enhances the flavors, delivering that perfect twist on tradition.
Effortless preparation: Simple ingredients and quick steps mean you can impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Lovely variations: Feel free to experiment with sweeteners and spices for a personalized touch! Try adding cinnamon for a warm flavor boost.
Crowd-pleaser: This pie’s unique flavor profile will enchant both families and friends, making it a favorite at gatherings.

Salted Honey Pie Ingredients

• For the Crust
9-inch Pie Crust – Use homemade or quality store-bought; blind-baking is key for a crispy base.

• For the Filling
½ cup Unsalted Butter – Melt it slightly and let it cool to enhance richness in your filling.
¾ cup Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the custard, working harmoniously with the honey.
¼ cup Cornmeal (fine grind) – Stabilizes the custard without adding any grit, ensuring a smooth texture.
¼ teaspoon Salt – This essential ingredient enhances the flavor and creates that sweet-salty balance.
1 tablespoon White Vinegar or Lemon Juice – Adds a touch of acidity; use based on your flavor preference.
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract – Infuses aromatic depth into the luscious filling.
½ cup Honey (preferably wildflower or clover) – This natural sweetener is crucial for achieving the best flavor in your Salted Honey Pie.
3 Large Eggs – Binds the filling together; room temperature eggs ensure better mixing.
½ cup Heavy Cream – Contributes creaminess for that indulgent custard experience.

• For the Topping
Flaky Sea Salt – A sprinkle on top just before serving brings out all the flavors beautifully.

How to Make Salted Honey Pie

Prepare the Pie Crust: Chill your pie crust for 30 minutes, then line it with foil or parchment paper. Fill with pie weights and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes. Remove weights and bake for 5 more minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly.
Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, cornmeal, salt, vinegar or lemon juice, vanilla, and honey until well blended. Gradually add eggs, whisking after each addition, then stir in heavy cream until smooth.
Bake the Pie: Pour the creamy filling into your pre-baked crust and place it on a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–50 minutes until the center is just set and barely jiggles. Tent with foil if the crust darkens too quickly.
Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. Before serving, sprinkle with flaky sea salt for that final touch of flavor.

Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Salted Honey Pie?

Imagine this delightful pie gracing your table, leaving your guests craving more than just a slice. Pairing with the right sides can turn a simple dessert into a memorable experience.

Whipped Cream: This light and airy topping balances the pie’s richness and adds a fluffy texture that feels indulgent.
Fresh Berries: A medley of juicy strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provides a refreshing burst of tartness to complement the sweet-savory notes of the pie.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy, cold ice cream enhances the pie’s flavor while offering a contrasting temperature that elevates each bite. The sweet vanilla harmonizes beautifully with the honey.
Mint Tea: A soothing cup of mint tea cleanses the palate and refreshes the senses after the pie’s sweet richness.
Chocolate Shavings: Garnish with dark chocolate shavings for a touch of luxury. The bittersweet chocolate adds depth, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
Lemon Sorbet: This zesty sorbet is a delightful palate cleanser that brings a bright, tangy note, perfectly clearing the way for another slice of pie.

Each of these pairings harmonizes with the decadent flavors of Salted Honey Pie, fostering delightful conversations and satisfied smiles around your table.

Make Ahead Options

Salted Honey Pie is a perfect dessert to prepare ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for busy home cooks! You can prepare the pie crust up to 24 hours in advance; simply blind-bake it and let it cool completely before covering and refrigerating. The filling can also be mixed and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To ensure the best quality, avoid mixing in the eggs until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, pour the filling into the pre-baked crust and bake as instructed. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious pie with minimal last-minute effort, making your gatherings even more enjoyable!

Expert Tips for Salted Honey Pie

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and heavy cream are at room temperature for a smoother filling that mixes beautifully.
Blind Baking Matters: Don’t skip blind-baking the crust; it prevents the dreaded sogginess that can ruin your Salted Honey Pie.
Cooling Time: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps maintain its structure and creamy texture for that perfect slice.
Quality Honey Counts: Using high-quality honey, like wildflower or clover, elevates the flavor, giving your pie that rich, floral note it deserves.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the pie while it bakes; if the crust starts browning too quickly, cover it with foil to prevent burning.

Storage Tips for Salted Honey Pie

Fridge: Store your cooled Salted Honey Pie tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain its fresh taste and creamy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the pie in the fridge overnight for gentle defrosting.

Reheating: If desired, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, just until warmed through.

Salted Honey Pie Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by tweaking this delightful recipe to suit your taste buds!

Maple Syrup: Use ½ cup of maple syrup instead of honey for a unique, earthy sweetness.
Nutty Crust: Swap your regular pie crust for an almond or pecan crust to add a delightful nutty flavor and extra crunch.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or cardamom into your filling for a warm, aromatic twist that complements the honey beautifully.
Citrus Zing: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the filling for a refreshing citrus note that brightens up the dessert.
Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute, perfect for those avoiding dairy.
Chocolate Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the pie for an elegant touch that enhances the sweet-salty contrast.
Caramel Swirl: Fold in a ribbon of salted caramel into the filling before baking for an enticing richness and added depth of flavor.
Fruit Infusion: Add fresh berries or sliced peaches on top of the pie before serving to introduce a burst of freshness and color.

Experiment with these variations to create a custom treat that’s perfect for any occasion!

Salted Honey Pie Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right honey for Salted Honey Pie?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using high-quality honey like wildflower or clover. These varieties bring out the natural floral notes that make the pie delightful. Avoid substitutes, as the flavor profile will differ significantly, and you could miss out on that sweet-salty balance we adore.

How should I store Salted Honey Pie?
Great question! Store your cooled Salted Honey Pie tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps maintain its fresh taste and creamy texture. Make sure to let it cool completely before covering it to prevent condensation from forming.

Can I freeze Salted Honey Pie?
Very! For longer storage, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and a layer of foil, ensuring it’s airtight. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy it, thaw the pie in the fridge overnight. If you need to reheat it, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.

What if my filling doesn’t set properly?
No worries! If your filling seems too runny after baking, it may need additional baking time. The center should be just set and barely jiggly when you take it out. If you find the edges are browning too quickly, tent the crust with foil while allowing the filling to firm up. You can also try reducing the oven temperature slightly in future batches for a more even bake.

Are there any dietary considerations for Salted Honey Pie?
Yes! This pie contains eggs and dairy, so it’s not suitable for vegan diets. Additionally, be cautious if serving to someone with egg allergies. If you’d like a dairy-free version, consider using a non-dairy cream alternative; however, it may alter the texture slightly.

Can this pie be made with alternative sweeteners?
Absolutely! While honey is the star here, you can experiment with sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor might change slightly, so it’s best to test a small batch first before serving!