Tropical Buttermilk Pie
A tangy tropical buttermilk pie with citrus zest and silky custard, perfect for brunch or afternoon tea, offering a bright, creamy dessert that satisfies sweet and savory palettes alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, flour and salt in a bowl.
- Beat egg yolks lightly, then whisk in buttermilk, grated orange rind, and melted butter.
- Stir the sugar mixture into the yolk mixture, blending thoroughly.
- Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form, then fold gently into the buttermilk custard.
- Pour the custard into an unbaked coconut or plain pastry shell.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the edge of the filling comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the buttermilk custard. If buttermilk is unavailable, you can substitute with a mixture of milk and lemon juice or vinegar. Ensure the egg whites are at room temperature for better volume when beaten. This pie is perfect for using up leftover coconut from recipes like Betty'S Pineapple Surprise.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Tropical Buttermilk Pie chilled for a refreshing dessert. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream. For a delightful contrast, consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This pie also makes a fantastic addition to summer gatherings or as a sweet ending to a brunch featuring vegetarian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm them in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid reheating whole pies to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tropical Buttermilk Pie contains roughly 764 calories, with 25g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (49% of the Daily Value), iron (44% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1874mg per serving (81% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a store-bought pie crust for this recipe?
Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust can save time and still yield a delicious pie. Just make sure to choose a quality crust that complements the flavors of the tropical buttermilk filling. Follow the package instructions for pre-baking if needed before adding the custard.
What can I do if my pie doesn't set properly?
If the pie doesn't set, it may need more baking time. Ensure that the knife comes out clean near the edge to confirm doneness. If it still seems runny after cooling, consider refrigerating it for a few hours to help it set further before serving.
Is it possible to make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the Tropical Buttermilk Pie a day in advance. Just bake it, let it cool completely, and then refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve chilled, and it will taste just as fresh as when made the same day.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).