Print

Salted Honey Pie Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Salted Honey Pie is a luscious dessert that masterfully balances rich, creamy custard infused with caramelized honey and a hint of sea salt. Encased in a flaky butter pie crust, the custard filling made from heavy cream, brown sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla offers a velvety texture and a depth of sweet and salty flavor. Baked to perfection, this pie features a golden, slightly crispy top and pairs wonderfully with toppings like whipped cream or toasted nuts. Ideal for any occasion, this classic American dessert promises a comforting yet sophisticated treat that delights with every bite.

Ingredients

Pie Crust

  • 1 refrigerated or homemade pie crust (8-inch deep dish or 9-inch pie pan)

Custard Filling

  • 4 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
  • 2 1/2 cups (600 ml) heavy whipping cream
  • 2/3 cup (150 g) packed light brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup (45 g) cornstarch, sifted
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) honey
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pie Crust: Place the pie crust in your chosen pie pan and refrigerate to chill. Chilling ensures even baking and prevents shrinking, maintaining a flaky texture due to the cold butter. Optionally, sprinkle sugar on top of the crust for a sweet crunch.
  2. Heat the Cream Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until mixture reaches a rolling boil and thickens slightly, releasing a rich caramel aroma.
  3. Temper the Eggs: Remove the cream mixture from heat. Slowly ladle a small amount of the hot cream into the beaten egg yolks while whisking continuously to gradually raise the eggs’ temperature and prevent scrambling. Repeat until eggs are fully tempered and smooth.
  4. Combine the Mixture: Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture. Stir in honey and vanilla extract until fully incorporated, producing a smooth, creamy custard with a caramel-like tone.
  5. Fill the Pie Crust: Pour the warm, thick custard evenly into the chilled pie crust, ensuring no air pockets remain for an even texture in every slice.
  6. Bake the Pie: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pie for 40 to 45 minutes, until the filling bubbles and the top turns golden with a slightly crispy crust. The pie may jiggle slightly when removed but will firm up as it cools.
  7. Cool and Set: Let the pie cool at room temperature until it sets, then refrigerate until fully chilled and firm, enhancing flavor melding and custard consistency.
  8. Finish with Sea Salt: Just before serving, sprinkle flaky sea salt generously over the pie to enhance the sweet honey flavor with a sophisticated salty contrast.
  9. Serve and Enjoy: Slice into 8-10 portions and serve chilled. Optionally garnish with whipped cream, toasted nuts, or drizzle caramel sauce to elevate the dessert experience.

Notes

  • Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Use different honeys like clover, wildflower, or lavender for unique flavors. Dark honey or a honey-maple syrup blend can deepen flavor.
  • Pie Crust Variations: Use store-bought refrigerated crust for convenience or make a homemade buttery, flaky crust for superior texture. Gluten-free pie crusts and graham cracker crusts are excellent alternatives for dietary needs or varied texture.
  • Topping Ideas: Add whipped cream, toasted pecans or almonds, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for enhanced taste and texture contrast.
  • Serving Suggestions: Ideal for holidays or casual meals, pairs beautifully with coffee or sweet dessert wines like Riesling or Moscato. Serve alongside vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.