Vintage Lemon Buttermilk Pie
A timeless Southern dessert with a buttery, flaky crust, creamy lemon custard, and a delicate tang from buttermilk. This old-fashioned pie is sweet, refreshing, and perfect for sharing with family!
📝 Ingredients
For the pie
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the optional meringue topping
- 3 large egg whites
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges.
2. Make the lemon filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt. Add the eggs and melted butter, mixing until smooth.
Whisk in the buttermilk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
3. Fill and bake
Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has only a slight jiggle.
If the crust browns too quickly, cover the edges with foil.
4. Prepare the meringue (optional)
Beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form. Beat in the vanilla.
Spread the meringue over the hot pie, making sure it touches the crust around the edges.
Return the pie to the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, until the meringue is lightly golden.
5. Cool and serve
Allow the pie to cool completely. If you prefer a firmer custard, refrigerate for 2–3 hours before slicing.
💡 Tips for the perfect pie
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- Room-temperature ingredients help create a smooth filling.
- For the cleanest slices, chill the pie before cutting.
- If you prefer a simpler, traditional buttermilk pie, skip the meringue and serve with a dollop of whipped cream.
Enjoy every sweet, tangy, old-fashioned bite! 🍋🥧