Manuka Honey Buttermilk Pie with Cinnamon Praline

Published:
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RECIPES

EDUCATION

7 minutes

Essential Takeaways

  • A modern twist on a classic: Creamy buttermilk pie sweetened with New Zealand Honey Co. UMF™ 15+ Manuka Honey and topped with a crunchy cinnamon praline.

  • Mindful indulgence: Rich and creamy, but naturally sweetened with the depth of Manuka Honey.

  • Perfect for sharing: Ideal for Christmas dinner, festive afternoon tea, or as a homemade gift.

  • Health-conscious flavour: Manuka Honey adds subtle wellness benefits while enhancing taste naturally.

Simple yet impressive: Easy-to-follow steps with premium ingredients for a dessert you’ll return to year after year.

Celebrate Christmas with a Slice of Indulgence:
Buttermilk Pie Sweetened with Manuka Honey

Christmas brings indulgence, joy, and time spent around the table.

And while classic desserts are always welcome, a premium twist can make the season feel even more special. This year, delight your loved ones with a Manuka Honey Buttermilk Pie topped with Cinnamon Praline, a custardy, creamy treat naturally sweetened with UMF™ certified New Zealand Manuka Honey.

Unlike refined sugar, Manuka Honey offers gentle sweetness, a richer texture, and subtle floral depth, elevating every bite. Whether enjoyed after a festive feast, shared over a cozy afternoon tea, or given as a thoughtful gift, this pie blends quality ingredients, holiday warmth, and mindful indulgence in every slice.

What Sets This Manuka Honey Buttermilk Pie Apart?

Christmas is about connection, shared moments, and joyful indulgence. This pie elevates a beloved classic with the rich complexity of UMF™ certified Manuka Honey:

  • UMF™ 15+ Manuka Honey in the filling adds subtle depth with caramel notes and gentle floral sweetness.

  • UMF™ 10+ Manuka Honey in the crust helps bind the base while adding a warm, delicate sweetness.

  • A cinnamon praline topping provides a festive crunch that finishes the dessert beautifully.

Curious about what makes Manuka Honey so special? Explore our article “Is Manuka Honey a Superfood?” to learn more about its natural benefits.

SHOP REAL RAW MANUKA

Ingredients You’ll Need

Makes one 9-inch pie, serving 8–10 slices.

For the crust:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • ½ tsp salt

  • 1 tbsp sugar

  • 10 tbsp unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

  • 3–4 tbsp ice water

For the filling:

  • 1 cup New Zealand Honey Co. UMF™ 15+ Manuka Honey

  • ¾ cup buttermilk

  • 3 large eggs

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg

  • ¼ tsp ground cinnamon

  • 1 pinch salt

For the cinnamon praline:

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • 2 tbsp water

  • ¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped

  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

  • 1 tbsp butter, softened

Optional garnish: UMF™ 15+ or 20+ Manuka Honey drizzle, powdered sugar, or fresh berries.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the crust

  1. Whisk together flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl.

  2. Cut in chilled butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  3. Gradually add ice water, mixing until dough forms.

  4. Shape into a disk, wrap in cling film, and chill for 30 minutes.

  5. Roll out dough and line a 9-inch pie pan. Keep chilled while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the filling

  1. Whisk together eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, vanilla, and UMF™ 15+ Manuka Honey until smooth.

  2. Stir in nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.

  3. Pour filling into the chilled crust and smooth the top.

Step 3: Bake gently

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)

  2. Bake 40–45 minutes until edges are set and center slightly wobbly.

  3. Cool completely on a wire rack before adding the praline topping.

Step 4: Make the cinnamon praline

  1. Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat; stir until dissolved.

  2. Let bubble until a deep amber forms. Remove from heat and stir in butter, nuts, and cinnamon.

  3. Spread evenly over cooled pie and allow to harden.

Step 5: Optional Manuka Honey drizzle

Warm 1–2 tbsp UMF™ 15+ or 20+ Manuka Honey and drizzle over each slice before serving.

The Art of Manuka Honey

Manuka Honey brings rich flavour, natural sweetness, and gentle wellness benefits to this dessert. Its floral and caramel undertones enhance the custardy filling, while the cinnamon praline adds a layer of festive warmth. By choosing UMF™ 10+, 15+, or 20+ Manuka Honey from New Zealand Honey Co., you’re guaranteed authenticity, traceability, and the distinctive taste only true Manuka Honey can deliver.

(For more culinary inspiration, explore our Honey Lemon Cake or Chamomile and Manuka Honey Cake.)

SHOP REAL RAW MANUKA

Make the Most of Every Bite with the Perfect Pairing

Once your Manuka Honey Buttermilk Pie is baked and beautifully golden, the finishing touches can elevate each slice from delicious to unforgettable. Whether you prefer added sweetness, fresh contrast, or a cozy drink to serve alongside, these simple pairings enhance the pie’s natural flavours and festive charm.

  • Drizzle warm UMF™ 15+ Manuka Honey over each slice for extra richness.

  • Add a seasonal flourish with powdered sugar or fresh berries.

  • Serve with lightly sweetened whipped cream or mascarpone blended with UMF™ 10+ Manuka Honey.

  • Pair with spiced tea, coffee, or mulled wine to bring out the dessert’s warm, caramel notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake a day in advance and refrigerate. Flavours develop overnight, while the praline stays crunchy if added just before serving.

Can I use regular honey instead of Manuka Honey?
Regular honey works, but only UMF™ Manuka Honey delivers signature floral and caramel notes and guaranteed premium quality.

Is this pie gluten-free?
For a gluten-free crust, substitute almond meal or gluten-free biscuits. Filling remains the same.

How should I store leftovers?
Cover with cling film or an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Freeze slices up to 1 month; defrost overnight before serving.

Baking with Authentic Manuka Honey

At New Zealand Honey Co., we celebrate quality, and authenticity. Our UMF™ certified Manuka Honey is harvested from New Zealand’s remote landscapes, ensuring traceability and premium quality

Baking with Manuka Honey guarantees a memorable Christmas dessert that delights every sense.

What Our Customers Tell Us

  • “This Manuka Honey transformed my pie! The depth of flavor is incredible, and it’s perfect for Christmas.” — Emma W., United States | UMF™ 15+

  • “The Buttermilk Pie was a hit at our holiday gathering. Smooth, creamy, and subtly sweetened, it’s my new favorite recipe.” — Olivia R., UK | UMF™ 15+

  • “Using Manuka Honey makes every dessert feel special. The taste and texture are unmatched!” — Anonymous, New Zealand | UMF™ 20+

Manuka Honey turns ordinary recipes into unforgettable moments. Explore our full range of UMF™ certified Manuka Honeys here and bring the natural sweetness our customers love into your kitchen this Christmas.

Made this Buttermilk Pie already? We’d love to see it! Share your creation on social media, tag @newzealandhoneyco, and show us how you’re celebrating year.

Your wellness journey starts with a spoonful a day.

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