1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pie Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the pie crust by gently pressing it into a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp the edges for a decorative finish. For a pre-baked crust, follow the package or recipe instructions; otherwise, the crust will bake with the filling.
2. Make the Filling:
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar and flour.
- Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the melted butter, buttermilk, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. If using, add the lemon zest. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Bake:
- Pour the filling into the unbaked pie crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the pie is set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center. The pie will continue to set as it cools.
- Check for doneness by inserting a knife near the center; it should come out mostly clean.
4. Cool and Serve:
- Cool the pie on a wire rack to room temperature. Then, chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the filling to fully set and makes slicing easier.
- Serve chilled. Buttermilk Pie can be enjoyed on its own or topped with fresh whipped cream or a sprinkle of nutmeg for extra flavor.
Tips
- Avoid Overbaking: Overbaking the pie can lead to a cracked surface. Remove it from the oven when it’s still a bit wobbly in the center.
- Lemon Zest: Adding lemon zest enhances the pie’s flavor profile, giving it a refreshing citrus note that complements the tanginess of the buttermilk.
Buttermilk Pie’s appeal lies in its simplicity and the balance of flavors. It’s a testament to the beauty of Southern baking traditions, offering a creamy, tangy, and irresistibly sweet dessert experience. Enjoy your homemade Buttermilk Pie!