There’s something deeply comforting about a pie that combines sweetness with a pinch of salt—and this Salted Honey Pie does exactly that. It’s a show-stopping dessert made from rich, silky custard infused with honey, nestled in a buttery, flaky crust and topped with a delicate sprinkle of sea salt. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just craving something uniquely indulgent, this pie hits all the right notes.
Don’t miss our key lime pie twist for citrus lovers, perfect alongside this salty-sweet delight.
Ingredients
- Pie crust (refrigerated or homemade)
- 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
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pie Crust
Begin by placing your pie crust in an 8- or 9-inch pie pan. Chill it in the fridge to keep it firm and help it bake evenly. A chilled crust is key to achieving that perfect flakiness. Homemade crusts work great, but a store-bought one will also do the trick.
2. Heat the Cream Mixture
In a medium saucepan, mix the cream, brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Heat it over medium, stirring constantly. As it nears boiling, it will start thickening. The kitchen fills with a delicious aroma of caramelized sugar—irresistible!
3. Temper the Eggs
Remove the cream mixture from heat. Slowly whisk some hot cream into the beaten egg yolks to temper them. Continue whisking until smooth and well combined to avoid scrambled eggs in your custard.
4. Combine and Flavor
Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan. Stir in the honey and vanilla extract until smooth. The honey gives the custard its signature golden hue and depth of flavor, while vanilla brings comforting warmth.
5. Fill the Pie Crust
Pour the custard into the chilled pie crust, spreading it evenly. The thick, silky filling is already full of promise and will set up beautifully when baked.
6. Bake to Perfection
Bake the pie at 375°F (190°C) for 40–45 minutes. The filling will puff up slightly and the top will brown. A slight jiggle in the center is fine—it will set as it cools. Avoid overbaking to maintain a smooth custard.
7. Cool and Chill
Let the pie cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until completely chilled. This step is crucial to achieve the perfect texture and to help the flavors meld together beautifully.
8. Finish with Sea Salt
Just before serving, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top. This finishing touch enhances the honey’s sweetness and adds a subtle crunch.
Tips & Variations
Ingredient Swaps
Need a dairy-free version? Use full-fat coconut milk in place of heavy cream. Different types of honey—clover, wildflower, or lavender—bring unique flavors.
Crust Choices
While standard pie crust works great, try a graham cracker base for a fun twist. You can even go gluten-free with specialty crusts.
Toppings
Add whipped cream, toasted nuts, or caramel drizzle for extra flair.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect with coffee or dessert wine. Try it with vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.
Discover great ideas like creamy lemon mousse or the smooth pistachio fudge dessert to serve alongside!
Flavor and Texture
The Salted Honey Pie is a multi-sensory experience. The filling is rich and silky with notes of caramel and vanilla, beautifully contrasted by the flaky crust and crunchy sea salt topping. Sweet, salty, and perfectly balanced—it’s a must-bake.
Looking for inspiration? Try this elegant lemon custard cake for a citrusy twist that pairs perfectly with the buttery honey custard.
Final Thoughts
This Salted Honey Pie is a keeper. It combines nostalgic comfort with modern flair and is remarkably easy to make. From casual get-togethers to holiday spreads, it’s bound to impress. A slice of this golden delight, chilled and topped with sea salt, is everything a dessert should be—creamy, flavorful, and unforgettable.