There’s something truly special about Salted Honey Pie: A Perfect Blend of Sweet and Salty. This delightful dessert combines the rich sweetness of honey with a hint of sea salt, creating a flavor profile that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Its creamy custard filling rests in a flaky pie crust, making it an ideal treat for gatherings or simply to enjoy at home. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging yourself, this pie brings warmth and joy to every table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of sweet honey and salty sea salt creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can impress their friends and family.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion—from casual dinners to festive celebrations.
- Stunning Presentation: The golden custard topped with flaky sea salt looks as good as it tastes.
- Rich and Creamy Texture: The velvety filling provides a satisfying mouthfeel that will keep you coming back for more.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything on hand will make preparation quicker and easier.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Deep dish 8-inch pie pan (or 9-inch pie pan)
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without mess.
- Medium saucepan: Ideal for heating your custard mixture evenly without scorching.
- Whisk: Ensures smooth blending of ingredients, especially when tempering eggs.
- Deep dish pie pan: Provides ample space for your rich custard filling while baking.

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
How to Make Salted Honey Pie: A Perfect Blend of Sweet and Salty
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Begin by preparing the pie crust in either a deep dish 8-inch pie pan or a 9-inch pie pan. There’s no need to pre-bake the crust for this recipe:
* Place the crust in the fridge to chill while you prepare the filling.
* If using a homemade pie crust, allow it to chill properly to prevent shrinking during baking.
Step 2: Heat the Custard Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy whipping cream, brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt:
* Set over medium heat and stir constantly until the mixture heats up.
* Bring it to a rolling boil while keeping an eye on it to avoid lumps.
Step 3: Temper the Egg Yolks
Once your cream mixture reaches a boil, remove it from heat:
* Ladle a small amount of hot cream into the egg yolks while whisking continuously.
* Gradually add more cream until fully combined; this prevents cooking the eggs too quickly.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream:
* Stir until well combined and smooth.
* Add honey and vanilla extract; mix thoroughly to incorporate flavors.
Step 5: Fill the Pie Crust
Carefully pour the warm custard mixture into your chilled pie crust:
* Ensure that it’s spread evenly to avoid air pockets.
Step 6: Bake the Pie
Place your filled pie in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C):
* Bake for 40-45 minutes until bubbly and slightly browned on top.
Step 7: Cool Down
Allow the pie to cool on the counter until it reaches room temperature:
* Once cooled, refrigerate until completely chilled. This setting is crucial for slicing later.
Step 8: Add Sea Salt Topping
Before serving, sprinkle flaky sea salt generously over the top:
* This enhances sweetness while adding an enjoyable crunch with each bite.
Step 9: Serve Chilled
Slice into portions—about 8-10 slices—and serve chilled:
* Enjoy your delicious Salted Honey Pie with its perfect balance of flavors!
How to Serve Salted Honey Pie: A Perfect Blend of Sweet and Salty
This Salted Honey Pie is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its rich flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your pie experience.
Pair with Fresh Berries
- Fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries add a tart contrast to the sweet and salty flavors of the pie. Their vibrant colors also make for an appealing presentation.
Top with Whipped Cream
- A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of each slice provides a light and airy complement, balancing the richness of the custard filling.
Drizzle with Extra Honey
- For those who enjoy a sweeter touch, drizzling a bit more honey on top enhances the flavor profile and adds an extra layer of indulgence.
Serve with Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream next to the pie creates a delightful temperature contrast and adds a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully.
Garnish with Nuts
- Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top add a crunchy element, creating an inviting textural contrast while enhancing the nutty undertones in the pie.
Offer Coffee or Tea
- Serving the pie alongside a cup of coffee or herbal tea can round out the meal. The warm beverage complements the dessert’s sweetness and helps cleanse the palate.
How to Perfect Salted Honey Pie: A Perfect Blend of Sweet and Salty
To ensure your Salted Honey Pie turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips that focus on achieving that ideal texture and flavor balance.
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Chill your ingredients – Make sure your heavy cream and egg yolks are cold before starting. This helps create a smoother custard texture.
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Monitor baking time – Keep an eye on your pie as it bakes. It’s essential not to overbake, as this can lead to curdled custard.
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Use fresh honey – Opt for high-quality, fresh honey. Its flavor directly impacts the taste of your pie, making it more aromatic and delicious.
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Let it cool completely – Allowing your pie to cool completely before refrigerating ensures it sets properly. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect slice.
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Experiment with crusts – Don’t hesitate to try different types of crusts, such as graham cracker or nut-based crusts, for unique flavor variations.
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Taste as you go – Adjust sweetness by tasting your custard mixture before pouring it into the crust. This way, you can customize it to suit your palate.
Best Side Dishes for Salted Honey Pie: A Perfect Blend of Sweet and Salty
Complementing your Salted Honey Pie with side dishes can enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options:
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Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides brightness and balances the richness of the pie.
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Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses such as brie or goat cheese; their creamy textures pair beautifully with sweet desserts.
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Roasted Nuts – Warm roasted almonds or pecans add crunchiness and their natural oils enhance flavors nicely alongside sweet dishes.
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Caramel Sauce – A simple homemade caramel drizzle can amplify sweetness while adding depth; serve warm for best results.
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Chocolate Sauce – Drizzling dark chocolate sauce over slices offers an indulgent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Coconut Macaroons – These chewy treats provide another layer of texture while complementing the honey flavor in the pie.
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Lemon Sorbet – This light sorbet acts as a palate cleanser between bites, offering a zesty counterpoint to the sweet custard.
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Spiced Chai Cookies – The warming spices in chai cookies pair wonderfully with the dessert’s flavors, making for cozy comfort food fare.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Salted Honey Pie, avoiding common mistakes can ensure your dessert turns out perfectly. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Skipping the chilling step: Failing to chill the pie crust can lead to shrinkage. Always refrigerate your crust before filling it to maintain its shape.
- Not tempering the eggs properly: If you add hot cream directly to the eggs, they may scramble. Gradually mix the hot cream with the egg yolks while whisking continuously for a smooth custard.
- Overbaking the pie: Leaving the pie in the oven too long can cause a grainy texture. Keep an eye on it and remove it when it’s slightly jiggly in the center; it will firm up as it cools.
- Using too much salt: Adding excessive sea salt can overpower the sweetness of honey. Stick to sprinkling just a generous amount on top for balance.
- Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using warm ingredients can affect how well they mix. Ensure your cream and eggs are at room temperature for even blending.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It can be kept fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing Salted Honey Pie: A Perfect Blend of Sweet and Salty
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
- The pie can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Salted Honey Pie: A Perfect Blend of Sweet and Salty
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Warm slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Salted Honey Pie, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:
How do I achieve a flaky crust for my Salted Honey Pie?
To achieve a flaky crust, ensure that your butter is cold when mixing. Chill the dough before rolling it out, and avoid overworking it.
Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?
Yes! You can substitute maple syrup or agave nectar if you prefer another sweet flavor profile, though this may alter the taste slightly.
What should I do if my custard isn’t thickening?
If your custard isn’t thickening, ensure you brought your mixture to a full boil while stirring constantly. If needed, you can return it to low heat and stir until thickened.
Is Salted Honey Pie suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! Its unique flavor makes it perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any gathering where you want to impress guests with something different.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this pie a day in advance; just store it in the fridge after cooling completely. This actually enhances its flavors!
Final Thoughts
Salted Honey Pie is not only delicious but also versatile enough to fit any occasion. Its blend of sweet and salty flavors is sure to delight everyone at your table. Feel free to customize by adding spices like cinnamon or even using different types of honey. Give this recipe a try—it’s bound to become a favorite!

Salted Honey Pie: A Perfect Blend of Sweet and Salty
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: About 8 servings 1x
Description
Salted Honey Pie is a delightful dessert that elegantly marries the rich sweetness of honey with a subtle touch of sea salt. This creamy custard filling, nestled within a flaky pie crust, offers a comforting yet sophisticated flavor experience perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- Pie crust (refrigerated or homemade)
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Flaky sea salt (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare your pie crust in an 8-inch or 9-inch deep dish pan and chill while you make the filling.
- In a medium saucepan, combine heavy whipping cream, brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Stir over medium heat until boiling.
- Remove from heat and temper the egg yolks by gradually adding the hot cream mixture while whisking continuously.
- Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan and stir in honey and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Carefully pour the custard into the chilled pie crust.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 40-45 minutes until bubbly and slightly browned.
- Allow to cool to room temperature before refrigerating until completely chilled.
- Before serving, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: Chill ingredients beforehand for a smoother custard. Monitor baking time closely to avoid overbaking. Experiment with different crust types for unique flavors.