Classic Buttermilk Pie

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Buttery, custardy, and sweet with a whisper of tang, Classic Buttermilk Pie is a beloved Southern dessert that turns simple pantry staples into something extraordinary. Its silky filling and golden crust create a contrast of textures that’s both rustic and elegant, making it the kind of dessert that never lasts long on the table.

This pie is perfect for holidays, Sunday suppers, or whenever you want to bring a touch of old-fashioned charm to your dessert spread. Whether served chilled or slightly warm, a slice of buttermilk pie is comfort in every bite.

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What Kind of Buttermilk Should I Use?

Stick to full-fat buttermilk for the richest flavor and creamiest texture. If you only have low-fat buttermilk, it will still work, but you can add a tablespoon of melted butter to the mix to enhance the richness. Avoid using homemade buttermilk substitutes (like milk and vinegar) for this one—they won’t yield the same custard consistency.

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Ingredients for the Classic Buttermilk Pie

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 1 cup buttermilk (preferably full-fat)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust

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How To Make the Classic Buttermilk Pie

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges if desired.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the flour, lemon juice, nutmeg, salt, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 3: Fill the Crust

Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust. Tap the pie dish lightly on the counter to release any air bubbles.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. A slight jiggle in the center is okay—it will continue to firm up as it cools.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack. Chill for at least 1 hour if you prefer a firmer texture, or serve slightly warm with a dollop of whipped cream.

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Serving and Storing Classic Buttermilk Pie

Classic Buttermilk Pie is delicious both warm and chilled. Serve it with a spoonful of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of flair. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or sweet tea.

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to 4 days. The pie can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just wrap it well and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when buttermilk pie is done?

The center should be just set with a slight jiggle. If it still looks liquidy, give it a few more minutes, checking in 5-minute increments.

Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

Absolutely! A quality store-bought crust makes this recipe even easier without compromising taste.

What’s the difference between chess pie and buttermilk pie?

Both are custard-based pies, but chess pie includes cornmeal and often a splash of vinegar, while buttermilk pie relies on tangy buttermilk for its signature flavor.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, it’s a great make-ahead dessert. Bake it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Is this pie overly sweet?

It is sweet, but the tang from the buttermilk and the brightness of the lemon juice balance it out beautifully.

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Want More Pie Ideas?

If you loved this Classic Buttermilk Pie, don’t miss out on these other cozy favorites from the kitchen:

• Irresistible Pecan Pie Bites for bite-sized caramel crunch.
• Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake if you’re craving tart and rich.
• Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars with a cinnamon sugar twist.
• Cinnamon Donut Bread for a breakfast-inspired treat.
• Baked Apple Empanadas for fall flavors wrapped in pastry.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can find it anytime.

And when you make it, let me know how it turns out! Did you go classic or add a modern twist—maybe some citrus zest or a new topping?

I love seeing how others bring their own flavor to these time-honored dishes. Share your tips or tweaks in the comments. We’re all in this pie-making journey together!

You can also follow along for daily recipe inspiration on my Pinterest: Nina Dishes.

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