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The Ultimate Old-Fashioned Southern Buttermilk Pie: Creamy, Tangy, and Foolproof

Close-up of a perfect slice of buttermilk pie showing creamy filling and a deeply caramelized top crust.

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This classic Southern Buttermilk Pie recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and perfectly tangy custard filling that sets flawlessly. It uses simple pantry staples for an easy, satisfying dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (9-inch) unbaked homemade pie crust or store-bought crust
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place your unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie plate.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt until combined.
  3. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse sand.
  4. Add the buttermilk, lightly beaten eggs, vanilla extract, nutmeg (if using), and lemon juice (if using). Whisk until the filling is smooth. Do not overmix.
  5. Carefully pour the buttermilk filling into the unbaked pie crust.
  6. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes. The center should be mostly set but still have a slight jiggle when gently shaken. The top should be lightly golden brown.
  7. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling process is important for the custard to set properly.
  8. Once fully cooled, you can chill the pie for at least 2 hours before slicing.
  9. Serve your creamy custard dessert slightly cooled or chilled.

Notes

  • For a perfect flaky crust, keep your butter cold when making it from scratch.
  • If you do not have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of whole milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
  • This pie pairs well with a dusting of cinnamon or a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
  • This recipe is a true pantry staple dessert, relying on basic ingredients.

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