Name: Lilac Salty Honey Pie Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: PT-491378H12M13S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup fully opened lilac blossoms, green stems removed; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 of No Fail Pie Crust recipe (one disk of pie pastry); 1/4 pound (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted; 3/4 cup lilac sugar (from Lilac Sugar recipe); 1 tbsp cornmeal; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp vanilla paste; 3/4 cup honey (preferably mild honey like wildflower or clover honey); 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tsp white vinegar; 1-2 tsp flaky Maldon salt (for finishing); Optional garnish: additional lilac blossoms and small pieces of honeycomb

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 70 reviews

The Lilac Salty Honey Pie Recipe is a stunning twist on the classic salty honey pie, bringing together the rich, custardy texture of the filling with an irresistible blend of earthy honey sweetness and just the right touch of salt. What makes this version truly special is the addition of delicate lilac sugar, infusing the dessert with a subtle floral note that feels like sunshine captured in a slice. Whether you’re a devoted pie lover or someone looking to wow guests with something uniquely delightful, this pie is a perfect celebration of summer’s best flavors in one glorious bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white pie crust with a light, flaky texture sits in a pie dish at the bottom left, ready to be filled. To the left, a white small plate holds a yellow stick of butter and three eggs in different shades: light beige, brown, and pale green. At the top center, a clear glass measuring cup contains white milk. Below it, a white bowl is filled with a sandy-looking granular mix speckled with purple and dark bits. To the right, a jar of golden honey with a gold lid has a wooden spoon resting on top. Below the honey jar, a small dark bottle with a black lid stands next to a small black bowl filled with coarse white salt. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with white kitchen items in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients just right is key to nailing the balance of sweet, salty, and floral in this pie. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and color that make the Lilac Salty Honey Pie Recipe so memorable.

Lilac blossoms (3/4 cup, fully opened, stems removed): These fresh flowers provide the fragrant floral notes essential for the lilac sugar that elevates the pie’s flavor.
Granulated sugar (3/4 cup for lilac sugar + 3/4 cup for pie filling): Sweetness that balances honey’s richness and brings life to the lilac-infused sugar.
Unsalted butter (1/4 pound / 1 stick, melted): Adds richness and helps create that smooth, luscious filling texture.
Cornmeal (1 tbsp): A small but important ingredient that gives a delicate texture and helps stabilize the filling.
Kosher salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all sweet flavors and contrasts beautifully with the honey.
Vanilla paste (1 tsp): Deepens flavor complexity with warm vanilla undertones.
Honey (3/4 cup, milder varieties like wildflower or clover recommended): The star sweetener of the pie, offering earthy, floral sweetness that melds perfectly with the lilac sugar.
Large eggs (3): Provide structure and richness, making the filling custardy and creamy.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Adds lusciousness and smooth mouthfeel.
White vinegar (2 tsp): Balances sweetness with a subtle tang and helps set the filling.
Flaky Maldon salt (1-2 tsp for finishing): Sprinkled on top just before serving to heighten the salted contrast.
Pie crust (1/2 recipe of your favorite no-fail recipe): The sturdy, buttery base that holds the custard filling perfectly.

How to Make Lilac Salty Honey Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Lilac Sugar

Start by pulsing equal parts of fully opened lilac blossoms and granulated sugar in a food processor until the lilac petals are completely broken down. This fragrant sugar is the magic ingredient, infusing your pie with the delicate essence of lilacs. Spread this mixture evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet to dry. You can speed up the process by placing it in a gently warmed (200°F) oven that’s turned off. Keep an eye on it, breaking up any clumps once dried, either with a mortar and pestle or back in the food processor. Store your lilac sugar in an airtight container, ready to add a floral twist to your pie.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust

Using half of your trusted pie crust recipe, roll out the dough and fit it into a pie plate, crimping the edges nicely. Pop the prepared shell into the freezer to chill and firm up while you work on the filling. A cold crust ensures a beautifully crisp base that won’t get soggy from the luscious filling.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a medium bowl, whisk together the partly cooled melted butter, the lilac sugar, cornmeal, kosher salt, and vanilla paste until blended. The lilac sugar brings a subtle but clear flower-forward sweetness that contrasts so well with the salty elements. Next, stir in the honey, then beat in the eggs one at a time for a smooth, cohesive mixture. Finally, fold in the heavy cream and vinegar, which help to balance richness and contribute to the custard set.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Place the frozen pie shell on a baking sheet—it catches any drips and makes it easier to rotate. Pour your filling straight into the shell. There’s no need to strain the filling, especially with the bits of lilac blossoms that add lovely texture and bursts of flavor. Bake at 375°F on the middle rack for about 40 to 45 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through for even cooking. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are puffed and set, and the center looks firm like gelatin with a shiny mahogany top.

Step 5: Cool and Finish

Transfer the pie to a wire rack and let it cool completely for 3 to 4 hours so the filling can fully set. Just before serving, sprinkle over the flaky Maldon salt and, if you want to be extra fancy, garnish with a few lilac blossoms and bits of honeycomb for texture and visual impact.

How to Serve Lilac Salty Honey Pie Recipe

A deep pie with four slices, one slice missing, showing two layers: a thick light crust at the bottom and a dark brown smooth filling on top, decorated with small pieces of honeycomb and a light sprinkle of coarse salt flakes, all in a round white pie dish. One slice is placed on a white plate with brown detailed patterns, resting on a white marbled surface with bright purple flowers scattered around. A white-handled fork lies next to the slice on the plate. Nearby, there is a white cup filled with dark red liquid, surrounded by more purple flowers. A metal pie server with a blue-green patina rests on the surface near the pie. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The finishing touch is key here. A light sprinkle of flaky Maldon salt enhances the sweet flavors and brings that signature salty-sweet balance alive on your tongue. Fresh lilac blossoms scatter across the top add a delicate floral aroma and elegance. For a decadent flourish, tiny shards of honeycomb provide delightful chewiness and a natural sweetness boost that pairs beautifully with the pie’s rich custard filling.

Side Dishes

This pie shines brightly on its own but can also be served with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a refreshing contrast. A light, floral tea or a sparkling lemonade complements the lilac notes well, making it perfect for afternoon gatherings. If you want to keep the summer vibe going, add a simple green salad with citrus vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dessert with something crisp and bright.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices on pretty dessert plates garnished with edible flowers, or plate it next to a scoop of mild vanilla ice cream to add creaminess. Another lovely idea is to crumble a bit of honeycomb on top tableside for a touch of drama. If you’re hosting a garden party, add some fresh lilac sprigs beside each slice to tie the experience together visually and aromatically.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover pie should be tightly covered and stored in the refrigerator to preserve freshness. It will keep beautifully for up to four days with the flavors continuing to meld, making each bite as delightful as the first. The crust may soften slightly but the filling remains deliciously smooth and fragrant.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this pie, wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then foil to protect it from freezer burn. It freezes well for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently for the best experience.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a low oven (around 300°F) for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through without melting the filling. Avoid microwaving as this can make the crust soggy and the filling rubbery. Reheating brings back the pie’s creamy custard texture and toasty notes of honey without sacrificing its delicate lilac aroma.

FAQs

What is lilac sugar and how does it affect the flavor?

Lilac sugar is a fragrant mixture made by pulsing fresh lilac blossoms with granulated sugar and drying it. It adds a subtle floral sweetness that enhances the honey’s natural notes and adds an unexpected summery brightness to the pie.

Can I use regular sugar instead of lilac sugar?

Yes, but the lilac sugar is what makes this recipe special. Using just granulated sugar will still yield a delicious salty honey pie, but you’ll miss out on the unique floral dimension that defines this version.

What kind of honey is best for this recipe?

Milder honeys like wildflower or clover work best because they don’t overpower the lilac sugar’s delicate flavor. Their light, earthy sweetness complements the pie’s custard perfectly and allows the floral notes to shine.

Is it necessary to strain the filling before baking?

It’s not necessary at all! The filling is smooth, and the bits of lilac blossoms add character and texture that make the pie even more special. Skipping straining saves you time and keeps the floral charm intact.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! It actually benefits from resting for several hours to fully set and develop flavors. You can make it a day ahead and keep it refrigerated until serving, making it perfect for entertaining.

Final Thoughts

If you love pies that are both classic and creative, the Lilac Salty Honey Pie Recipe is going to steal your heart. It’s a stunning balance of sweet, salty, and floral flavors that make every bite feel like a little celebration. I can’t wait for you to bake this pie and share it with friends and family, because once you’ve tasted it, you’ll want to make it again and again.

Lilac Salty Honey Pie Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need