Name: Irresistible Salted Honey Pie: A Sweet & Salty Dream Dessert
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 145 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Heavy Cream (Can substitute with almond milk or coconut cream.); 3/4 cup Brown Sugar (White sugar or coconut sugar can be used.); 1/2 cup Honey (Maple syrup can be used as a substitute.); 4 large Egg Yolks (Essential for custard; vegan substitute may alter texture.); 1/2 cup Butter (Can substitute with margarine.); 1 1/4 cups Flour (Whole wheat flour can be used.); 1/2 teaspoon Flaky Sea Salt (Use kosher salt if unavailable.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I wiped flour from my hands and watched the golden crust bake to perfection, I couldn’t help but steal a taste of my latest creation: Salted Honey Pie. This divine dessert combines the delightful kiss of sweet honey with the surprising burst of savory sea salt, all wrapped in a flaky, buttery shell. It’s a dish that’s not only a showstopper for gatherings but also offers a comforting embrace for a quiet evening at home. With its creamy custard filling and simple prep, you’ll find it’s a perfect treat whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting to explore the joys of homemade desserts. Ready to create something magical? Let’s dive into this sweet and salty adventure together!

Why is Salted Honey Pie a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor Fusion: The combination of sweet honey and savory sea salt creates a unique taste that is absolutely unforgettable.

Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this gorgeous dessert, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers alike.

Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm or chilled, paired with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside fresh fruit for a deliciously vibrant contrast.

Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: This Salted Honey Pie is sure to impress at any gathering, bringing smiles to faces and warmth to hearts.

Intrigued by more sweet delights? Don’t miss trying these delightful Salted Caramel Rice or indulging in a scoop of Honey Lavender Ice. Your friends and family will love you for it!

Salted Honey Pie Ingredients

For the Custard

Heavy Cream – Provides a rich, creamy texture; substitute with almond milk or coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth through caramelization; can be replaced with white sugar or coconut sugar for a different flavor.
Honey – Contributes natural sweetness and a distinct flavor; maple syrup can be used as a substitute if needed.
Egg Yolks – Essential for a rich custard, acting as a binder; no direct substitute, but a vegan egg replacer may alter the final texture.

For the Crust

Butter – Offers flakiness and richness; can be replaced with margarine for a dairy-free option.
Flour – Provides structure; whole wheat flour can be used for a nuttier flavor.

For the Finish

Flaky Sea Salt – A finishing touch that enhances sweetness; use kosher salt if unavailable, but reduce the quantity.

Now that you’re armed with the perfect ingredients for your Salted Honey Pie, get ready to create a flavor-packed dessert that will have everyone begging for seconds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Honey Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine flour and cold butter, using your fingers or a pastry cutter to incorporate until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gently press this mixture into a 9-inch pie pan, ensuring an even layer across the bottom and up the sides. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to prevent shrinkage while baking.

Step 2: Blind Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once chilled, line the pie crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans to maintain its shape. Bake for about 20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. After baking, carefully remove the weights and parchment, and let the crust cool while preparing the filling.

Step 3: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, brown sugar, honey, and egg yolks until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. The filling should have a slightly thick consistency that clings to the whisk. This luscious custard for your Salted Honey Pie is crucial for achieving that perfect sweet and salty balance.

Step 4: Bake
Pour the custard filling into the pre-baked crust, using a spatula to smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 25–30 minutes, or until the custard is just set with a slight jiggle in the center. Keep an eye on it, as overbaking can alter the creamy texture you desire.

Step 5: Cool & Serve
Once baked, remove the Salted Honey Pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling step is essential to allow the custard to set perfectly. Once cool, sprinkle a generous pinch of flaky sea salt on top just before serving to enhance the sweet flavors and add a delightful crunch.

Expert Tips for Salted Honey Pie

Chill the Crust: Ensure your pie crust is fully chilled before baking to prevent shrinkage and maintain that beautiful shape.
Perfect Egg Yolks: Beat the egg yolks until they turn pale yellow. This simple step helps create a light, airy custard filling that perfectly balances the sweet and salty flavors of your Salted Honey Pie.
Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on your pie while baking. The custard should be just set with a slight jiggle, as overbaking can lead to a rubbery texture.
Add Sea Salt Last: Wait until the pie has cooled completely before sprinkling on the flaky sea salt. This preserves its texture and provides that delightful burst of flavor in every bite.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to try adding lemon zest or vanilla extract to the custard for an extra layer of flavor that complements the sweetness and saltiness beautifully.

Make Ahead Options

These Salted Honey Pies are ideal for meal prep, making your busy days so much sweeter! You can prepare the crust and filling separately up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the crust, chill and blind bake it as directed, then store it wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. For the filling, whisk together the heavy cream, brown sugar, honey, and egg yolks, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, pour the custard into the pre-baked crust and bake as directed for a fresh, creamy pie that’s just as delicious as if you had made it on the spot. You’ll save precious time without sacrificing taste!

Variations & Substitutions for Salted Honey Pie

Feel free to get creative and customize your Salted Honey Pie to match your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with almond milk or coconut cream for a deliciously creamy custard without dairy. The subtle flavors will shine through beautifully.
Sweetener Swap: Try using white sugar or coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile. Each option will present its unique twist, giving you the freedom to explore.
Honey Alternatives: If you’re out of honey, maple syrup makes an excellent substitute, imparting a lovely, rich taste. The pie will carry a delightful hint of earthiness that complements the custard.
Nutty Crust: For added texture, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for the crust. This swap brings a warm, nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the custard filling.
Flavor Infusions: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest or vanilla extract to the custard for an aromatic kick that enhances the sweetness. It will elevate every bite, making each mouthful a surprise.
Chocolate Lovers: If chocolate is your passion, layer a smooth chocolate ganache beneath the custard for an indulgent twist. The bittersweet chocolate harmonizes perfectly with the honey and salt.
Gourmet Sea Salt: Experiment with smoked sea salt instead of regular flaky sea salt for a deeper, complex flavor, adding an intriguing twist to your dessert. The smokiness will create a flavor profile that takes your pie to new heights.
Serve with a Twist: Pair slices of Salted Honey Pie with fresh fruit, like berries or citrus, for a burst of freshness on the side. Additionally, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of Honey Lavender Ice can raise this dessert to a new level of indulgence.

Remember, experimenting is part of the joy in baking! Each variation brings a new experience, ensuring your Salted Honey Pie is ever so delightful. If you’re in the mood for more sweet treats, don’t forget to try Salted Caramel Rice or the classic Mississippi Mud Pie. Your taste buds will thank you!

What to Serve with Salted Honey Pie

Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that complement the creamy and sweet nature of this pie.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the rich custard, making each bite even more indulgent.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or tart raspberries provide a refreshing, tangy element that beautifully cuts through the sweetness of the pie.
Chocolate Ganache: A layer of luscious chocolate ganache beneath the custard adds a decadent twist that creates a harmonious sweet-salty balance.
Citrus Salad: A bright citrus salad of oranges and grapefruits offers a zesty, refreshing accomplice, enhancing the flavors with its vibrant tang.
Mint Tea: A soothing cup of mint tea complements the pie’s sweetness while adding a calming herbal note, perfect for a cozy gathering.
Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla or honey-infused ice cream serves as a delightful cold counterpart, balancing the warm, custardy pie with its silky texture.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade caramel over the pie enhances its flavor profile and provides an extra sweet layer that is simply irresistible.
Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted nuts like pecans or almonds adds a delightful crunch, introducing a textural contrast that enhances the overall experience.
Cheese Plate: Pairing with a selection of soft cheeses like mascarpone or cream cheese provides a rich, tangy finish that complements the pie’s sweet notes.

Storage Tips for Salted Honey Pie

Fridge: Keep the Salted Honey Pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its creamy texture and flavor.

Freezer: To store longer, freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or enjoy it chilled for a refreshing taste experience.

Advance Preparation: Consider making the pie a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing your Salted Honey Pie’s sweet and salty profile.

Salted Honey Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of honey should I use for Salted Honey Pie?
For the best flavor, I recommend using a high-quality raw honey as it brings a rich, floral sweetness to the pie. However, if you’re looking for a lighter taste, clover honey works beautifully too. Just avoid overly processed honeys, as they can lessen the natural complexity you want in this dessert!

How long can I store Salted Honey Pie in the fridge?
Absolutely! You can keep your Salted Honey Pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped or in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture. If making in advance, consider preparing it a day before serving for the best flavor integration.

Can I freeze Salted Honey Pie?
Yes, you can! To freeze, slice the pie and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This way, it will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the slices in the fridge overnight. For a quick option, you can microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds to enjoy them warm!

What should I do if my custard filling doesn’t set?
If your custard filling hasn’t set properly after baking, it may be due to underbaking. The custard should be slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out of the oven; it will firm up as it cools. If it’s completely liquid, you might want to return the pie to the oven for another 5-10 minutes. Always keep a close eye on it to prevent overbaking!

Are there any allergy considerations for Salted Honey Pie?
Yes, this pie contains dairy and eggs, which are common allergens. If you’re serving guests with these allergies, you can experiment with alternatives, such as using almond milk or coconut cream in place of heavy cream and a vegan egg replacer for the custard. However, note that these substitutions may alter the texture and taste of the pie slightly.

How important is the flaky sea salt topping?
Very! The flaky sea salt is the magic touch that amplifies the flavor profile, balancing the sweet honey in the custard. Make sure to sprinkle it on just before serving to retain its crunch. If you can’t find flaky sea salt, kosher salt can be a substitute, but use a little less as it’s saltier by volume.