Name: Salted Honey Pie: The Sweet and Salty Slice You Need
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Heavy Cream (Provides richness and creaminess to the custard filling.); 3/4 cup Brown Sugar (Adds depth of flavor and sweetness.); 1/2 cup Honey (Imparts natural sweetness and a distinctive flavor profile.); 4 large Egg Yolks (Creates a velvety texture in the custard.); 1 crust Butter Pie Crust (Acts as the foundation of the pie, contributing flakiness and support for the filling.); 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (Enhances flavors and provides a contrast to the sweetness.)

As I stirred the rich, creamy filling of my Salted Honey Pie, a delightful aroma wafted through the kitchen, instantly transporting me to sunny Southern summers filled with family gatherings. This dessert is a beautiful medley of sweet and salty flavors that transforms everyday moments into something extraordinary. With its smooth custard and a burst of sea salt, this pie is not only a heartwarming treat but also incredibly easy to whip up—perfect for novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. It’s a comforting choice whether you’re hosting a festive celebration or enjoying a cozy night in. Curious how such a simple recipe can bring both joy and a touch of indulgence to your table? Let’s dive into this irresistible creation!

Why is Salted Honey Pie so special?

Irresistible balance: The interplay of sweet honey and flaky sea salt creates a flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds.
Simple prep: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master this pie with ease.
Rich, creamy texture: The silky custard filling melts in your mouth, offering a divine contrast to the crisp pie crust.
Versatile delight: Perfect for celebrations or casual family dinners, this pie suits any occasion.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve it with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence—just like my Apple Custard Pie or Salted Caramel Honeycrisp for more sweet options. Enjoy the compliments that will surely come your way!

Salted Honey Pie Ingredients

For the Custard Filling

Heavy Cream – Provides richness and creaminess to the custard filling.
Brown Sugar – Adds depth of flavor and sweetness.
Honey – Imparts natural sweetness and a distinctive flavor profile.
Egg Yolks – Creates a velvety texture in the custard.

For the Pie Crust

Butter Pie Crust – Acts as the foundation of the pie, contributing flakiness and support for the filling.

For Topping

Sea Salt – Enhances flavors and provides a contrast to the sweetness.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Honey Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your Salted Honey Pie. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and baking equipment, ensuring you have a pie dish ready to hold your delicious masterpiece.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust
Roll out your butter pie crust on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Carefully transfer the crust into your pie dish, pressing gently to fit snugly against the bottom and sides. Don’t forget to pierce the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling during baking, allowing your crust to bake evenly.

Step 3: Combine Cream and Sweeteners
In a medium saucepan, mix together the heavy cream, brown sugar, and honey over medium heat. Stir regularly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warmed through—avoid letting it boil. Look for small bubbles to form around the edges to signal it’s ready. This step forms the luscious base for your Salted Honey Pie custard.

Step 4: Temper the Egg Yolks
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they are slightly frothy. Slowly add the warmed cream mixture to the yolks, whisking constantly. This gradual incorporation helps temper the yolks, preventing them from curdling. The resulting mixture should be smooth and well combined, ready to pour into the pie crust.

Step 5: Fill the Pie Crust
Carefully pour the custard filling into your prepared pie crust, ensuring an even distribution. The custard should fill the crust up to just below the edges, leaving room for expansion. Look for any bubbles and gently tap the dish to release them. Now, it’s time to bake your Salted Honey Pie!

Step 6: Bake the Pie
Place the pie in your preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are firmly set, and the center has a slight wobble. This slight jiggle ensures a creamy texture, perfect for a delicious custard filling. Keep an eye on the crust to ensure it doesn’t brown too quickly.

Step 7: Cool and Refrigerate
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This cooling process helps the filling set further. After it has cooled, cover the pie and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours. Chilling enhances the flavors and provides a firmer texture for slicing.

Step 8: Finish with Sea Salt
Before serving your Salted Honey Pie, take it out of the refrigerator and sprinkle a touch of flaky sea salt on top. This added element intensifies the contrast between sweet and salty. Slice it up and get ready to enjoy your beautifully crafted dessert that’s sure to delight your family and friends!

Expert Tips for Salted Honey Pie

Avoid Boiling: Ensure the cream mixture doesn’t boil; it should just simmer. Boiling can change the texture and flavor of the custard.
Room Temperature Eggs: Using room temperature egg yolks helps achieve a smooth custard. Cold yolks can curdle when added to the warm cream mixture.
Chill Your Crust: For a flaky pie crust, always chill it for at least 30 minutes before filling. This prevents shrinkage and promotes better texture in your Salted Honey Pie.
Cool Properly: Allow the pie to cool completely before refrigerating. This prevents a watery filling, ensuring every slice holds its shape.
Taste as You Go: Adjust the sea salt according to your taste preference. The right amount enhances the sweetness of the honey, making each bite delectable.

Storage Tips for Salted Honey Pie

Fridge: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze Salted Honey Pie for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Warm slices gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to revive its creamy texture.

Make-Ahead: Prepare the pie a day in advance; it develops richer flavors when stored in the fridge overnight.

Make Ahead Options

These Salted Honey Pie components can be prepped ahead, making them a breeze for busy weeknights or special occasions! You can prepare the custard filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the recipe through filling the crust, then cover and refrigerate it. The pie crust can also be rolled out and placed in the dish up to 3 days ahead; wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its flakiness. When you’re ready to serve, simply pour the custard into the crust, bake, cool, and chill as directed. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy a delightful dessert with minimal last-minute effort, ready to wow your family and friends!

What to Serve with Salted Honey Pie

As you savor every creamy bite of this dessert, consider pairing it with delightful accompaniments that elevate your dining experience.

Fresh Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a light and airy texture, perfectly complementing the rich custard.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy ice cream pairs beautifully with the pie’s warmth, making each bite a satisfying contrast.
Caramel Drizzle: A drizzle of caramel sauce brings a luscious sweetness that enhances the flavor profile of your Salted Honey Pie.
Toasted Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts offer a delightful crunch, adding a delightful earthy flavor that contrasts with the smooth custard.
Fruit Compote: A mix of berries, cooked down to a sweet compote, provides a refreshing tartness that balances the pie’s sweetness.
Coffee: A rich cup of coffee or espresso acts as a perfect palate cleanser, helping to amplify the honey flavor in the pie.
Herbal Tea: A calming blend of chamomile or mint tea introduces a soothing aspect, making this dessert feel even more indulgent.
Chocolate Shavings: Flakes of dark chocolate create an elegant garnish that adds depth and richness to your overall dessert experience.

Salted Honey Pie Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to adapt this delightful Salted Honey Pie to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences!

Maple Sweetness: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a unique flavor twist and added depth.
Vanilla Boost: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the custard for a lovely aromatic note that enriches the pie’s profile.
Nutty Crust: Incorporate crushed nuts or nut flour into your pie crust for a delightful flavor and crunch that complements the filling.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the custard for a warm, cozy spice that lifts the flavor.
Fruit Fusion: Top the pie with fresh fruits like sliced figs or berries for a refreshing contrast that adds color and vibrancy.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top before serving for an indulgent chocolatey twist; it pairs beautifully with the salty-sweet custard.
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with a creamy coconut milk for a luscious, dairy-free alternative that still brings richness.
Add Heat: Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper into the filling for a surprising kick that enhances the sweetness of the honey.

For inspiration on how to elevate your sweet treats, don’t forget to check out my delightful Honey Glazed Carrots or indulge in a slice of Banana Pudding Pie for a refreshing dessert twist!

Salted Honey Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of honey should I use for Salted Honey Pie?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using a mild-flavored honey like clover or wildflower. These varieties will impart a gentle sweetness without overpowering the other flavors in your pie.

How should I store leftover Salted Honey Pie?
To keep your pie fresh, store any leftovers in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to 3 days. This ensures the crust remains crisp while keeping the custard filling smooth and creamy.

Can I freeze Salted Honey Pie?
Very! You can freeze Salted Honey Pie for up to 2 months. To do this, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. This double wrapping prevents freezer burn and preserves the delicious flavors. When you’re ready to enjoy, move it to the fridge overnight to thaw and warm it in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes for the best texture.

Why did my custard filling turn out watery?
Don’t worry; this can happen if the pie is not cooled properly before refrigerating. Ensure you cool it at room temperature for at least 30 minutes after baking, then refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours. This helps the custard set and maintain its luscious consistency.

Is Salted Honey Pie safe for pets?
While the ingredients used in Salted Honey Pie are generally safe for humans, it’s best to avoid sharing it with your pets, especially due to the sugar and honey content. Dogs, in particular, should not consume honey in large quantities.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No problem at all! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half. Just keep in mind that the texture might be slightly less creamy, but it will still deliver great flavor.