What is burnt honey and why is it used in a Burnt Honey Pie?

What is burnt honey is a common question, and the answer lies in flavor. Burnt honey is honey gently cooked until it darkens into a rich burnt honey caramel with deep, toasted notes. In a Burnt Honey Pie, this process reduces sweetness and adds complexity, making the custard taste more balanced than traditional sugar-based pies.

Is a burnt honey custard pie the same as a burnt honey custard tart?

A burnt honey custard pie is typically baked in a deeper pie crust with a softer set, while a burnt honey custard tart or burnt honey tart recipe uses a shallower shell and firmer texture. Both rely on the same burnt honey recipe and caramelized honey base.

Is this burnt honey pie recipe easy for beginners?

Yes, this burnt honey pie recipe easy to follow uses simple steps and common burnt honey pie ingredients. The key is watching the honey closely while it caramelizes to avoid overcooking.

Is this similar to the Flamingo Estate burnt honey pie recipe?

This version is inspired by the flavor depth of the Flamingo Estate burnt honey pie recipe but adapted for home kitchens, keeping the process approachable and family-friendly.

Burnt Honey Pie Recipe: Easy, Silky, Caramel Custard Pie 2026

Name: Burnt Honey Pie
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 3 h
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup pure honey; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; ¼ cup heavy cream, warmed; 3 large eggs; ½ cup granulated sugar; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 ½ cups heavy cream; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional); 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

Description

Burnt Honey Pie is a rich, silky custard pie made with caramelized (burnt) honey that delivers deep toffee, slightly bitter notes balanced by cream and eggs. This elegant dessert is less sweet than traditional pies and perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or anytime you want a bold, grown-up dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (for one 9-inch pie):

For the Burnt Honey Caramel:

¾ cup pure honey
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup heavy cream (warmed)

For the Custard Filling:

3 large eggs
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for extra stability)

For the Crust:

1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, crimp edges, and chill while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Burnt Honey

In a heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat, add honey.
Cook without stirring for 5–8 minutes until it darkens and smells toasted (deep amber color).
Remove from heat and carefully whisk in butter, then slowly add warm cream (it will bubble).
Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, salt, vanilla, and cornstarch (if using).
Slowly whisk in heavy cream.
Add the burnt honey caramel and mix until smooth.

Step 4: Bake the Pie

Pour filling into the prepared crust.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes, until edges are set and the center slightly jiggles.
Remove from oven and cool completely at room temperature, then chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

Notes

Burnt Honey Tip: Watch closely—burnt honey should be dark and aromatic, not black or acrid.
Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of flaky sea salt on top before serving.
Texture Control: For a firmer custard tart-style pie, add the optional cornstarch.
Serving Idea: Serve with lightly whipped cream or crème fraîche.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Category: Dessert / Pie
Method: Baked / Custard
Cuisine: American