Salted Honey Pie is a luscious dessert that perfectly balances the sweetness of honey with a subtle salty kick from flaky sea salt. Featuring a creamy custard filling set in a flaky pie crust, this pie offers a rich caramel-like flavor and smooth texture that makes it an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Total Time:3 hours 5 minutes
Yield:8 servings
Ingredients
Pie Crust
1 refrigerated or homemade pie crust (for 8- or 9-inch pie pan)
Custard Filling
4 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
2 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
2/3 cup packed light brown sugar (150 g)
1/3 cup cornstarch, sifted (45 g)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup honey (120 ml)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Finishing
Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling on top
Instructions
Prepare the Pie Crust: Place the pie crust into an 8- or 9-inch deep dish pie pan and chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling. This helps the crust bake evenly and maintain a flaky texture without shrinking.
Heat the Cream Mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Stir constantly until the mixture reaches a rolling boil and thickens slightly, then remove from heat immediately.
Temper the Eggs: Slowly ladle small amounts of the hot cream mixture into the beaten egg yolks while whisking constantly to prevent scrambling. Gradually add all the cream mixture until smooth and fully combined.
Combine the Mixture: Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with remaining cream mixture. Stir in honey and vanilla extract until the filling is smooth and uniform.
Fill the Pie Crust: Pour the warm custard filling evenly into the chilled pie crust, spreading gently to avoid air pockets.
Bake the Pie: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes. The custard will bubble and the top will brown slightly. The center may jiggle slightly but will firm up as it cools.
Cool and Set: Allow the pie to cool to room temperature on the counter, then refrigerate until completely chilled and set, approximately 3 hours.
Finish with Sea Salt: Before serving, sprinkle flaky sea salt generously over the top to enhance the flavor combination.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice the pie into 8-10 portions and serve chilled. Optionally, pair with whipped cream, toasted nuts, or vanilla ice cream.
Notes
For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy whipping cream with full-fat coconut milk; texture will vary slightly.
You can experiment with different honey varieties (e.g., clover, wildflower, lavender) for unique flavor profiles.
A homemade pie crust offers superior flaky texture and flavor compared to store-bought.
Gluten-free pie crusts or graham cracker crusts are good alternatives for dietary needs or flavor variation.
Enhance presentation and flavor with toppings like whipped cream, toasted pecans or almonds, and caramel drizzle.
This pie pairs well with coffee, dessert wines like Riesling or Moscato, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
