When the weekend rolls around, I find myself longing for a treat that makes the hours spent in the kitchen utterly worth it. Enter the Salted Whiskey Honey Pie—a delightful fusion of sweet and savory that is sure to elevate your dessert game. The moment you pour that rich, golden honey filling into a perfectly crimped crust, you can almost hear the collective sighs of admiration from family and friends.
I stumbled upon this pie while exploring my pantry for something special to impress at our next gathering. The unexpected warmth of whiskey combined with the lusciousness of honey creates a flavor profile that is not only comforting but also sophisticated. As I sprinkled flaky sea salt over the top, a playful contrast emerged—a sweet and salty delight that leaves guests guessing and coming back for seconds.
If you’ve grown tired of the same old desserts and are searching for something truly memorable, this Salted Whiskey Honey Pie is your answer. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a beautiful way to indulge without the fuss. Let’s get baking!
Why is Salted Whiskey Honey Pie special?
Unique Flavor Blend: The harmonious combination of honey and whiskey provides a depth of flavor that’s both sweet and slightly smoky.
Deliciously Simple: Crafted with easy-to-find ingredients, this pie requires minimal effort while still delivering impressive results.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at gatherings and watch as your friends and family rave about its irresistible taste.
Elevated Comfort: It’s the perfect dessert to satisfy your cravings while giving a twist to traditional favorites.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy it as a cozy night-in treat or showcase it at your next dinner party. This recipe truly embodies the best of homemade desserts! If you’re looking for something else to ensure a gathering success, explore more tempting options in our dessert collection.
Salted Whiskey Honey Pie Ingredients
For the Crust
• All-purpose flour – provides the base for a flaky crust.
• Sugar – adds a touch of sweetness to balance the crust’s flavor.
• Salt – enhances the overall taste of the pie.
• Unsalted butter (cubed and chilled) – ensures a rich, buttery flavor and tender texture.
• Ice water – helps the dough come together without becoming tough.
For the Filling
• Unsalted butter (melted) – adds moisture and richness to the filling.
• Sugar – sweetens the pie perfectly without overpowering the honey.
• Flour – gives structure and stability to the filling.
• Kosher or sea salt – brings out the flavors and complements the sweetness.
• Vanilla extract – adds a warm, aromatic note to the filling.
• Honey – the star of the show, providing that signature sweetness and flavor in your Salted Whiskey Honey Pie.
• Large eggs (at room temperature) – bind the filling together for a smooth consistency.
• Heavy cream or crème fraîche – adds a luscious creaminess to the filling.
• Apple cider vinegar – enhances the pie’s flavor profile with a touch of acidity.
• Bourbon or whiskey (optional) – adds a sophisticated hint of warmth and depth.
For Garnish
• Flaky sea salt – sprinkles on top to create a delightful contrast, making each bite unforgettable.
How to Make Salted Whiskey Honey Pie
- Combine Ingredients: In a stand mixer bowl fitted with the paddle attachment, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt until smooth and well blended.
- Incorporate Butter: Add the cubed chilled butter and beat on medium speed until the mixture resembles coarse corn kernels—this is the key to a flaky crust!
- Add Water: Mix in 3 tablespoons of ice water and lower the speed to blend until the dough starts to come together. If it looks dry, add the last tablespoon.
- Chill Dough: Gather the dough by hand and shape it into a disk. Wrap it in plastic and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Roll Dough: Once chilled, roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface into a 14-inch round, taking care not to overwork it.
- Prepare Pie Crust: Transfer the rolled dough to a 9-inch pie plate, trimming the edges to leave about a 1-inch overhang. Fold the overhang under the rim and crimp the edges beautifully.
- Chill Again: Place the pie crust in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to 1 hour until firm, ensuring it holds its shape during baking.
- Preheat Oven: While the crust is chilling, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures an even bake for your pie.
- Mix Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, flour, salt, and vanilla until well combined.
- Incorporate Honey: Stir the honey into the mixture until it’s impeccably smooth and incorporated. That beautiful sweetness will be irresistible!
- Beat Eggs: In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Gradually whisk them into the butter-honey mixture to temper properly, ensuring a silky texture.
- Add Cream & Vinegar: Stir in the heavy cream, apple cider vinegar, and bourbon/whiskey if you’re using it, mixing until fully combined for rich flavor.
- Fill Crust: Pour the luscious filling into your prepared pie crust, spreading evenly for a gorgeous appearance as it bakes.
- Bake Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the filling is set and the top is lightly browned—a beautiful golden hue!
- Cool Down: Let the pie cool to room temperature for a while, then refrigerate it until fully firm—about 2 hours, to allow flavors to develop.
- Finish with Flaky Salt: Just before serving, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top for an enticing sweet-and-salty finish that beckons each bite.
Optional: For a richer flavor, top with a dollop of fresh whipped cream.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Salted Whiskey Honey Pie preparations are perfect for busy home cooks seeking to save time and reduce stress during busy weeknights! You can prepare the pie crust up to 3 days in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic and refrigerate. The filling can also be mixed up to 24 hours ahead; refrigerate it separately to maintain its texture. When you’re ready to bake, pour the filling into the chilled pie crust and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy all the sweet, luscious flavors of the pie with just a little bit of extra planning—and it will be just as delicious when it’s time to serve!
Salted Whiskey Honey Pie Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing your Salted Whiskey Honey Pie with these delightful twists!
- Nutty Boost: Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a pleasant crunch and added richness.
- Spice It Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling for warm, cozy flavors that cozy up the dish beautifully.
- Citrus Zing: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to brighten the flavor profile and cut through the sweetness.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this pie celiac-friendly without sacrificing taste or texture.
- Vegan-Friendly: Swap eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) and use plant-based butter and cream for a vegan version.
- Bourbon-Free: For a non-alcoholic version, replace the bourbon with an equal amount of vanilla extract for warmth and depth without the whiskey.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt a bit of dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled pie for an indulgent touch that complements the honey beautifully.
- Fruit Fusion: Mix in 1/2 cup of pureed cooked fruit, like apples or pears, into the filling for a sweet fruit twist that enhances the flavor and texture.
Let these variations inspire your own take on this beloved pie!
What to Serve with Salted Whiskey Honey Pie?
Elevate your dining experience with the ideal accompaniments that enhance every luscious bite of this delightful dessert.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool texture of vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the warm, sweet flavors of the pie, creating a comforting contrast.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and fluffy touch, complementing the richness of the pie beautifully.
- Fresh Berries: The tartness of mixed berries on the side brightens each bite and adds a refreshing pop of flavor, making the dessert even more enjoyable.
- Coffee: A cup of bold coffee serves as a wonderful counterpoint to the sweetness, grounding the flavors and making for a delightful pairing.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling a bit of warm chocolate sauce over the pie enhances its sweetness and adds a decadent flair that’s hard to resist.
- Sparkling Wine: The effervescence of sparkling wine lifts the overall experience, balancing the rich flavors of the pie for a truly elegant touch.
- Chopped Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts introduces a crunchy texture that complements the smooth filling, adding a delightful surprise.
- Caramel Drizzle: A light drizzle of caramel on top creates an indulgently sweet layer that enhances those singular honey notes in the pie.
- Cinnamon Dusting: A subtle dusting of cinnamon not only adds warmth but also harmonizes with the whiskey’s notes, creating a fragrant experience.
Expert Tips for Salted Whiskey Honey Pie
Chill the Butter: Always start with chilled butter for the crust; it helps you achieve the flakiest texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the crust ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make it tough.
Room Temperature Eggs: Using eggs at room temperature for the filling allows for better emulsification, resulting in a creamy, smooth pie.
Watch the Bake Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your pie during baking. It’s perfect when the top is lightly golden and set.
Rest Before Serving: Allow the pie to cool completely and refrigerate before serving. This helps set the filling, making slices cleaner and tidier.
Finish with Sea Salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt enhances the flavors of the Salted Whiskey Honey Pie, giving it a delightful contrast with each bite.
How to Store and Freeze Salted Whiskey Honey Pie
Room Temperature: Keep the pie at room temperature for up to 1 day if it’s not too warm in your kitchen; cover it to protect from drying out.
Fridge: Store the pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing odors and maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes. Serve warm, topped with flaky sea salt for added delight!
Salted Whiskey Honey Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my honey is the right quality?
Absolutely! Look for honey that is pure, raw, and unfiltered for the best flavor in your Salted Whiskey Honey Pie. It should have a rich, golden color and a pleasant aroma, free from any added sugars or artificial ingredients. If you see any dark spots or crystallization, it might be a sign that it’s not as fresh.
How should I store leftovers of my pie?
Very! Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other odors and to keep it fresh. Enjoy the incredible flavors that develop the next day!
Can I freeze Salted Whiskey Honey Pie?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This combination prevents freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and then reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt will bring back that irresistible flavor!
What if my pie filling doesn’t set?
If you find that your filling didn’t set properly, it could be due to underbaking or the filling being too warm when poured in. To troubleshoot, you can return the pie to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes until the center is firm but still slightly jiggly. Always make sure to cool the pie completely before refrigerating to help it firm up.
Is this pie safe for pets or those with dietary restrictions?
The Salted Whiskey Honey Pie contains ingredients that may not be suitable for pets, especially the honey and alcohol. For those with dietary restrictions, be cautious if you have allergies to eggs, dairy, or gluten since this dessert contains all of these. You could substitute with gluten-free flour and a dairy-free cream alternative to make it more adaptable!
Heavenly Salted Whiskey Honey Pie to Sweeten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a stand mixer bowl fitted with the paddle attachment, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt until smooth and well blended.
- Add the cubed chilled butter and beat on medium speed until the mixture resembles coarse corn kernels.
- Mix in 3 tablespoons of ice water and lower the speed to blend until the dough starts to come together.
- Gather the dough by hand and shape it into a disk. Wrap it in plastic and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Once chilled, roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface into a 14-inch round.
- Transfer the rolled dough to a 9-inch pie plate, trimming the edges to leave about a 1-inch overhang.
- Fold the overhang under the rim and crimp the edges beautifully.
- Place the pie crust in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to 1 hour until firm.
- While the crust is chilling, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, flour, salt, and vanilla until well combined.
- Stir the honey into the mixture until it’s impeccably smooth.
- In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Gradually whisk them into the butter-honey mixture.
- Stir in the heavy cream, apple cider vinegar, and bourbon/whiskey if you're using it.
- Pour the luscious filling into your prepared pie crust.
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes.
- Let the pie cool to room temperature for a while, then refrigerate until fully firm—about 2 hours.
- Just before serving, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top.