The Best Vegan Buttermilk Pie Recipe: Creamy, Tangy, and Dairy-Free Southern Comfort
Indulge in the rich, creamy, and wonderfully tangy flavors of a classic Southern buttermilk pie, now made entirely without dairy or eggs! This plant-based version captures all the irresistible charm of the original, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice of this comforting dessert. It’s a guaranteed hit at any gathering, delivering a nostalgic taste with a modern, compassionate twist.
Ever found yourself rummaging through the pantry, desperate for ingredients to whip up a delicious dessert? This familiar scenario is precisely how “desperation pies” earned their charming moniker. These classic recipes, born out of necessity and ingenuity, rely on basic, readily available pantry staples that most households always have on hand. Think of them as the ultimate comfort food solution when a sweet craving strikes but a trip to the grocery store isn’t an option. Some of the most beloved examples include the sweet and custardy chess pie, the molasses-rich shoofly pie, the simple elegance of sugar cream pie, and of course, the star of today’s recipe: buttermilk pie.
While the original concept of a “desperation pie” might evoke images of simpler times, its essence perfectly aligns with the modern vegan kitchen. Many plant-based staples are often kept well-stocked, making a vegan version of this Southern classic surprisingly accessible. Prepare to discover a dessert that’s not only incredibly delicious but also a testament to how adaptable and satisfying vegan baking can be.
What Exactly Is Buttermilk Pie?
Buttermilk pie is a quintessential Southern dessert, cherished for its unique balance of sweet and tangy flavors, encased in a buttery, flaky crust. Traditionally, this rich custard pie is made with a simple blend of eggs, butter, and buttermilk, which gives it its signature creamy texture and a subtle, delightful tang. The filling bakes up into a smooth, dense custard, often with a slightly caramelized top, offering a comforting warmth that’s hard to resist. It’s a dessert that evokes feelings of home and tradition, often served at family gatherings and holidays across the American South.
Crafting a vegan version of such a dairy and egg-centric recipe might seem like a daunting task, but it’s entirely possible to achieve the same irresistible flavor and texture. Our vegan buttermilk pie masterfully replicates the beloved qualities of its traditional counterpart using only plant-based ingredients. If you’re accustomed to a vegan lifestyle, you’ll likely find most of these ingredients already nestled in your kitchen cupboards. This means our veganized version wholeheartedly qualifies as a “desperation pie” for the plant-based community, ready to be created whenever a craving for creamy, tangy goodness strikes.
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Vegan Buttermilk Pie Recipe
This vegan buttermilk pie isn’t just a substitute; it’s a celebration of flavor and accessibility. Here’s a deeper look into what makes this plant-based dessert an absolute must-try:
- Truly Vegan and Allergen-Friendly. While popular pies like apple pie and pumpkin pie are relatively straightforward to veganize, buttermilk pie presents a unique challenge due to its reliance on eggs and dairy for structure and flavor. This recipe cracks the code, offering a genuinely creamy, rich, and tangy pie without a single trace of animal products. This means individuals with dairy allergies, egg allergies, or those following a vegan lifestyle can finally savor this classic Southern comfort without compromise. It’s a game-changer for inclusive dessert tables!
- Ultimate Cozy Comfort Food. There’s something inherently comforting about a perfectly baked pie, and this buttermilk pie takes that feeling to the next level. The thoughtful combination of warm nutmeg, aromatic vanilla, and the distinctive tang of vegan buttermilk creates a flavor profile that’s incredibly inviting and deeply satisfying. Each bite is a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and tart notes, delivering a taste experience that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening or a nostalgic treat on a sunny afternoon. It’s pure, unadulterated comfort in every slice.
- Effortlessly Easy to Prepare. Don’t let the sophisticated taste of this pie fool you into thinking it’s complicated. This recipe is designed with simplicity in mind, making it accessible even for novice bakers. The filling comes together quickly with just a few simple mixing steps, requiring minimal fuss and specialized techniques. Once the luscious filling is prepared, it’s poured into your chosen pie crust and baked for approximately an hour. That’s truly all there is to it! Minimal effort, maximum reward – perfect for busy days or impromptu dessert cravings.
Essential Ingredients for Your Vegan Buttermilk Pie
Creating this delicious pie begins with selecting the right plant-based ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the classic buttermilk pie texture and flavor. Remember, for precise quantities and step-by-step instructions, refer to the detailed recipe card below.
- Pie Crust: The foundation of any great pie! For the best results, we highly recommend using either our homemade vegan pie crust or our equally delicious gluten-free vegan pie crust. Both recipes yield a flaky, tender base that perfectly complements the creamy filling. Alternatively, feel free to use your favorite store-bought vegan pie crust for a convenient shortcut. Just ensure it’s a 9-inch crust.
- Vegan Egg Batter: This is a key ingredient for achieving the traditional custard-like consistency. You’ll need an amount equivalent to about 3 chicken eggs. It’s crucial to use a store-bought liquid vegan egg substitute (often labeled as “egg replacer” or “vegan egg batter”) that is specifically designed to function like eggs in baking. These products typically create the necessary binding and structure. This is not the same as flax eggs, chia eggs, or other homemade powdered egg substitutes, which will not provide the correct texture for this specific custard-based pie.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar provides the essential sweetness that balances the pie’s tangy notes. If you’re strictly vegan, be sure to opt for organic cane sugar or another brand certified as vegan, as some conventional sugars are processed with bone char.
- Vegan Butter: A high-quality vegan butter is essential for richness and flavor. Ensure it’s at room temperature before mixing, as this will help it cream smoothly with the other ingredients, creating a more uniform and luscious filling. Store-bought stick butter alternatives work wonderfully here, or you can even try a homemade vegan butter recipe.
- Vegan Buttermilk: This is where the signature tang comes from! While you can purchase some commercial vegan buttermilks, it’s incredibly simple and economical to make your own at home. Just combine your favorite plant-based milk (such as soy, almond, or oat) with a tablespoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it curdles slightly. Our recipe on how to make vegan buttermilk provides all the details.
- All-Purpose Flour: A small amount of all-purpose flour helps to thicken the filling and give it structure, contributing to the creamy, set custard texture of the pie.
- Vanilla Extract: A touch of pure vanilla extract enhances the overall sweetness and adds a warm, comforting aroma to the pie. Don’t skimp on quality here!
- Lemon Zest: The bright, citrusy notes from fresh lemon zest are not just for garnish; they significantly brighten the pie’s flavor, cutting through the richness and elevating the tangy profile from the vegan buttermilk. It’s a subtle but impactful addition.
- Nutmeg: This classic spice adds a hint of warm, earthy flavor that perfectly complements the creamy, sweet, and tangy elements of the pie. Freshly grated nutmeg offers the most intense and aromatic experience, but pre-ground nutmeg works perfectly fine as well.
- Salt: A pinch of salt is vital for balancing the sweetness and enhancing all the other flavors in the pie, preventing it from tasting flat.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: While optional, a dollop of fluffy coconut whipped cream is the perfect finishing touch for this pie. Its light, creamy texture and subtle sweetness provide a delightful contrast to the rich filling.
Simple Steps to Bake Your Perfect Vegan Buttermilk Pie
Making this incredible vegan buttermilk pie at home is a straightforward and enjoyable process. Follow these easy steps to create a dessert that will impress everyone:
- Prepare Your Oven and Pie Crust: Begin by preheating your oven to a steady 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, carefully place your chosen 9-inch pie crust into a pie dish. If you desire a more decorative edge, take a moment to crimp the edges of the crust with your fingers or a fork. Set the prepared crust aside for now.
- Cream the Vegan Egg and Sugar: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the vegan egg replacer with the granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer on medium speed, beat these two ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined and the mixture appears light and somewhat fluffy. This step helps to dissolve the sugar and create a smooth base for your filling.
- Incorporate the Vegan Butter: Add the room-temperature vegan butter to the egg and sugar mixture. Continue beating with your hand mixer until the butter is fully incorporated, and the entire mixture is smooth and homogenous, with no lumps of butter remaining. This creates a rich foundation for the pie’s custard.
- Blend in the Remaining Filling Ingredients: Now, add the vegan buttermilk, all-purpose flour, vanilla extract, fresh lemon zest, a dash of nutmeg, and a pinch of salt to the bowl. Continue to beat with the hand mixer on low to medium speed until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the filling is completely smooth and free of any flour streaks. Be careful not to overmix at this stage.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Carefully pour the smooth filling into your prepared pie crust. For easier handling and to catch any potential spills, place the pie dish on a baking sheet. Transfer it to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60 minutes. The pie is ready when the center is mostly set (it might have a slight jiggle, but not be liquid), and the top has turned a beautiful golden brown.
- Cool Completely and Serve: This step is crucial for the pie to set properly and achieve its ideal texture. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely to room temperature on a wire rack. This can take several hours. Do not attempt to slice it while warm, or it may not hold its shape. Once cooled, you can decorate it with a generous dollop of coconut whipped cream, if desired, before slicing and serving.
Top Tips for Buttermilk Pie Success
Achieving a perfect vegan buttermilk pie is simple, but a few key tips can elevate your results from good to absolutely phenomenal:
- Guard Against Over-Browning Your Crust: Pie crusts, especially delicate vegan ones, can sometimes brown faster than the filling bakes. If you notice the edges of your pie crust becoming too dark halfway through the baking time, simply cover them loosely with aluminum foil or use a specialized pie shield. This will protect the crust from burning while allowing the filling to continue baking to perfection.
- Patience is Key: Allow for Full Cooling: This is perhaps the most critical tip for any custard-based pie. It’s tempting to slice into a warm, aromatic pie right out of the oven, but for a buttermilk pie, patience is a virtue. The filling needs ample time to cool completely and fully set its creamy, dense texture. If you cut into it too soon, the slices will be messy and won’t hold their shape, and the texture won’t be as firm and custard-like as desired. This pie is truly best enjoyed at room temperature, allowing its complex flavors to shine.
- Don’t Hesitate to Take a Shortcut: While making a homemade pie crust is a rewarding experience, sometimes time is of the essence. The good news is that the market today offers an impressive array of high-quality store-bought vegan pie crusts. If you’re looking to minimize effort without sacrificing flavor, starting with a pre-made crust is a fantastic option. This way, you can focus all your energy on mixing up the delightful filling and still enjoy a delicious, homemade-tasting dessert with minimal fuss.
Delightful Serving Suggestions
While this vegan buttermilk pie is absolutely divine on its own, it can be elevated with a few thoughtful accompaniments. Beyond the classic addition of fluffy coconut whipped cream (which is always a good idea!), consider pairing your pie with fresh fruit. The vibrant sweetness and slight acidity of berries or peaches beautifully complement the pie’s creamy tanginess. Think ripe strawberries, juicy raspberries, plump blackberries, or sweet blueberries – all create a wonderful contrast. Slices of fresh, ripe peaches also make an exquisite pairing, especially in the summer months. For a different twist, a scoop of your favorite vegan vanilla bean ice cream could add another layer of creamy indulgence. A cup of hot coffee or tea can also round out this comforting dessert experience.
Storage Instructions for Your Vegan Buttermilk Pie
Proper storage ensures your vegan buttermilk pie stays fresh and delicious for days. Once the pie has completely cooled to room temperature, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or foil. It should be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you prefer to store individual slices, transfer them to an airtight container to maintain their freshness and prevent them from drying out.
Can This Vegan Buttermilk Pie Be Frozen?
Yes, this vegan buttermilk pie freezes beautifully, making it an excellent dessert to prepare in advance or to save for future cravings. To freeze the entire pie, ensure it is completely cooled, then wrap it tightly first in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double layer of protection helps prevent freezer burn. Alternatively, you can freeze individual slices by wrapping them securely or placing them in an airtight freezer bag or container. The pie can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator before serving. This gradual thawing process helps maintain the pie’s creamy texture.
More Delicious Vegan Pie Recipes to Explore
If you loved this vegan buttermilk pie, you’re in for a treat! We have an array of other fantastic plant-based pie recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and delight your guests:
- Decadent Strawberry Cream Pie
- Comforting Vegan Sweet Potato Pie
- Classic Vegan Pecan Pie Recipe
- Hearty King’s Shepherd’s Pie (Savory)
We hope you thoroughly enjoy creating and devouring this incredible vegan buttermilk pie! It’s truly a labor of love that brings a classic Southern dessert to a wider audience. If you give this recipe a try, please don’t forget to snap a photo and tag #jessicainthekitchen on Instagram. We absolutely adore seeing your culinary creations! Also, your feedback means the world to us, so please consider leaving a comment below and giving the recipe a star rating. Your support helps us continue sharing delicious vegan recipes with the world. Happy baking, friends!
Buttermilk Pie
Ingredients
- 1 9-inch pie crust
- 6 ounces vegan egg batter, equivalent to 3 eggs, 170 ml
- 1 cup sugar, 4.2 oz, 200 grams
- ½ cup vegan butter, at room temperature (110 grams)
- 1 cup vegan buttermilk, 236 grams
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 32 grams
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 8 grams
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 2 grams
- dash of nutmeg
- pinch of salt
- coconut whipped cream, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges if desired. Set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, using a hand mixer, combine the vegan egg replacer with sugar until well mixed and light.
- Add the room temperature vegan butter to the mixture and continue mixing until well incorporated and smooth.
- Add the vegan buttermilk, all-purpose flour, vanilla extract, lemon zest, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the filling is smooth.
- Pour the prepared filling into the pie crust set aside earlier.
- Place the pie dish on a baking sheet for easier handling. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the center is mostly set (a slight jiggle is fine) and the top is golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack to room temperature before slicing. Decorate with coconut whipped cream, if desired, just before serving.
Notes
Disclaimer: Although jessicainthekitchen.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, kindly note that these are only estimates. Nutritional information may be affected based on the product type, the brand that was purchased, and in other unforeseeable ways. Jessicainthekitchen.com will not be held liable for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on nutritional information. If you need to follow a specific caloric regimen, please consult your doctor first.