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Classic Southern Buttermilk Pie Recipe

A close-up slice of buttermilk pie showing the creamy yellow filling and a deeply caramelized, browned top crust.

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You will make this old-fashioned buttermilk pie again and again. It features a creamy, tangy custard filling and a flaky crust, making it a simple, comforting Southern dessert perfect for holidays or family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust (use your favorite from-scratch pie crust recipe)
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Place your unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt until combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
  4. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients while whisking constantly until the filling is smooth.
  5. Pour the buttermilk custard filling into the unbaked pie crust.
  6. Carefully place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any potential drips.
  7. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes. The center should be mostly set but still have a slight jiggle when gently moved. The top should be golden brown.
  8. Remove the pie from the oven. If desired, lightly sprinkle the top with nutmeg immediately after removing it.
  9. Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing. This allows the creamy custard to fully set.
  10. Serve this classic Southern dessert at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Notes

  • For a truly melt-in-your-mouth texture, do not overbake. The center will firm up as it cools.
  • If your crust edges start browning too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil during the last 20 minutes of baking.
  • This pie tastes best when made with full-fat buttermilk for the richest flavor.

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