Indulge in the irresistible combination of sweet and salty with this Salted Honey Pie. Featuring a creamy, caramelized custard filling nestled in a buttery crust, this pie is a showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself at home, it’s a dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet and Salty Perfection: The balance of rich honey sweetness and a hint of flaky sea salt makes this pie truly unforgettable.
- Decadent Custard Filling: The caramelized custard is velvety smooth with a flavor reminiscent of butterscotch and honeycomb.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether for holidays, dinner parties, or a cozy evening at home, this pie is always a hit.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
For the Filling:
- 4 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
- 2 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- ⅔ cup packed light brown sugar
- ⅓ cup cornstarch, sifted
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup honey
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Flaky sea salt
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Roll out the pie crust and place it into an 8-inch deep dish or 9-inch standard pie pan. Trim and crimp the edges if desired.
- Chill the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Mix the Filling
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy whipping cream, light brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Place over medium heat and stir constantly until the mixture begins to boil and thicken. This will take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Temper the Egg Yolks
- In a small bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks.
- Slowly whisk a small amount of the hot cream mixture into the yolks to temper them. This prevents the eggs from curdling.
- Gradually whisk the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture.
Step 4: Add Honey and Vanilla
- Remove the saucepan from heat.
- Stir in the honey and vanilla extract until fully combined and the filling is smooth.
Step 5: Assemble the Pie
- Pour the custard filling into the chilled pie crust. Smooth the top with a spatula if necessary.
Step 6: Bake the Pie
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling bubbles and turns golden.
- The center should still have a slight jiggle when done.
Step 7: Cool and Set
- Remove the pie from the oven and cool to room temperature.
- Once cooled, refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
- Just before serving, sprinkle the top of the pie with flaky sea salt for a delightful crunch and a touch of saltiness.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Tips for Perfect Salted Honey Pie
- Choose High-Quality Honey: The flavor of honey is the star of this dish, so opt for high-quality, floral honey for the best results.
- Temper Carefully: When tempering the egg yolks, add the hot cream mixture slowly to avoid cooking the eggs.
- Chill for Best Results: The pie sets best when refrigerated for at least 2-3 hours, or overnight for enhanced flavor.
- Use a Pie Shield: If the edges of the crust brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie shield while baking.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Coffee: A strong espresso or cappuccino complements the sweetness of the pie beautifully.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Make It Seasonal: Add a drizzle of caramel or scatter toasted nuts on top for a festive twist.
Conclusion
This Salted Honey Pie is the perfect blend of rich, creamy custard and delicate, flaky crust, all elevated by a sprinkle of sea salt. It’s a unique and sophisticated dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Perfect for special occasions or casual indulgence, this pie is sure to become a favorite!