Salted Honey Pie: A Sweet and Salty Dessert Dream

Name: Salted Honey Pie: A Sweet and Salty Dessert Dream
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 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

August 4, 2025

- by Jenna

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Imagine a dessert that’s rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced with a touch of sea salt—that’s exactly what this Salted Honey Pie delivers! This indulgent treat combines velvety custard infused with honey, nestled in a flaky pie crust, and finished with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for the ultimate sweet-and-savory experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a decadent dessert, this pie is sure to impress. Let’s dive into how to make this showstopper!

Why You’ll Love This Salted Honey Pie Recipe

Irresistible Sweet-and-Salty Harmony:

The combination of honey’s natural sweetness with a touch of sea salt creates a flavor profile that’s both sophisticated and utterly addictive. Each bite is a perfect balance of rich, creamy custard and a hint of savory crunch.

Simple Yet Elegant:

With straightforward ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this pie looks and tastes like it came straight from a bakery. It’s a dessert that’s as impressive as it is simple to make.

Versatile for Any Occasion:

Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a summer picnic, or a cozy night in, this pie fits any setting. Serve it chilled for a refreshing treat or slightly warmed for a comforting dessert.

Ingredients for Salted Honey Pie

Pie Crust (Refrigerated or Homemade):

The foundation of the pie, providing a buttery, flaky base that holds the creamy filling. A homemade crust adds extra flavor, but a store-bought one works just as well for convenience.

Large Egg Yolks:

These create the rich, smooth custard texture. Beaten lightly, they blend seamlessly into the filling for a velvety consistency.

Heavy Whipping Cream:

The key to the pie’s luscious, creamy filling. It adds richness and helps the custard set perfectly.

Light Brown Sugar:

Adds a deep caramel-like sweetness that complements the honey beautifully.

Cornstarch:

Acts as a thickening agent, ensuring the custard sets firmly without becoming grainy.

Salt:

Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness of the honey and sugar.

Honey:

The star ingredient! It infuses the custard with a warm, floral sweetness that’s unmistakably delicious.

Vanilla Extract:

Adds a subtle depth of flavor, rounding out the sweetness with its aromatic notes.

Flaky Sea Salt:

The finishing touch that elevates the pie with a burst of saltiness and a satisfying crunch.

(Note: The full list of ingredients with quantities is provided in the recipe card just below.)

Variations

Dairy-Free Version:

Swap heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk and use a vegan pie crust for a dairy-free alternative. The coconut adds a subtle tropical note that pairs well with honey.

Spiced Honey Pie:

Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the custard for a warm, spiced twist. Perfect for fall gatherings!

Nutty Crust Upgrade:

Mix finely chopped pecans or almonds into your pie crust for added texture and nutty flavor. It’s a delicious way to enhance the pie’s complexity.

How to Prepare Salted Honey Pie

Step 1:

Prepare the pie crust in an 8-inch or 9-inch pie pan and chill it in the fridge. This helps prevent shrinking during baking and ensures a flaky texture.

Step 2:

In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Heat over medium, stirring constantly, until it thickens and comes to a boil.

Step 3:

Temper the egg yolks by slowly whisking in a small amount of the hot cream mixture. Gradually add more, whisking continuously to avoid scrambling the eggs.

Step 4:

Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, then stir in honey and vanilla until smooth and fully combined.

Step 5:

Pour the custard into the chilled pie crust, spreading it evenly. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden and slightly bubbly.

Step 6:

Let the pie cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until fully set. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving.

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Maldon Salt, Sea Salt Flakes

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Stainless Steel Wire Whisk Set of 3

A good whisk ensures smooth custard by preventing lumps while tempering eggs.

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Tips and Tricks

Chill Your Crust Thoroughly:

A cold crust bakes more evenly and holds its shape better, preventing soggy bottoms or shrinking edges.

Stir Constantly While Heating:

To avoid lumps in your custard, keep stirring the cream mixture as it thickens. A smooth filling is key to a perfect pie.

Use High-Quality Honey:

The better the honey, the richer the flavor. Opt for raw or locally sourced honey for the best results.

How to Serve

With Fresh Whipped Cream:

A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds an extra layer of indulgence and balances the saltiness.

Drizzled with Extra Honey:

For honey lovers, a light drizzle of warm honey over each slice enhances the floral sweetness.

Paired with Coffee or Tea:

The pie’s richness pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or herbal tea, making it a great dessert for brunch or after-dinner treats.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Refrigerate for Up to 3 Days:

Store the pie covered in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors meld and deepen over time.

Freeze for Longer Storage:

Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Serve Chilled for Best Texture:

The custard sets firmly when cold, so always serve it straight from the fridge for the perfect slice.

FAQ

1. Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

Absolutely! A refrigerated pie crust works just fine and saves time. Just make sure to chill it before filling.

2. Why does my custard look lumpy?

This usually happens if the eggs aren’t tempered properly or if the mixture isn’t stirred enough while heating. Always whisk continuously for a smooth texture.

3. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Yes, but keep in mind that sugar helps with texture and setting. Reducing it slightly is fine, but avoid cutting it by more than a quarter.

There you have it—a Salted Honey Pie that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy baking!