Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that captures the essence of Southern comfort and tradition! Chess pie is more than just a dessert – it's a slice of heritage that has graced Southern tables for generations. With its rich, custardy filling and perfectly golden crust, this classic pie is so simple yet so extraordinary that it will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises to bring a touch of Southern charm right to your kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornmeal
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure the rack is positioned in the center of the oven for even baking.
- Prepare the pie crust by placing it into a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp the edges decoratively and set aside. If using a frozen pie crust, allow it to thaw slightly at room temperature.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar and cornmeal. Whisk together thoroughly to break up any lumps and ensure even distribution.
- Add the melted butter to the sugar mixture, stirring until well incorporated and smooth.
- Crack the eggs into the mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition to create a smooth, consistent batter.
- Stir in the vinegar and vanilla extract, mixing until all ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is uniform in color and texture.
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, taking care not to overfill. The mixture should come close to the top of the crust but not spill over.
- Carefully transfer the pie to the preheated oven, placing it on the center rack.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. The top should be golden brown and have a slight crust.
- Remove the pie from the oven and place on a wire cooling rack. Allow to cool completely for at least 2 hours, during which time the filling will continue to set.
- Once cooled, slice into 8 equal wedges. Serve at room temperature, optionally topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
- Store any leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and butter, are at room temperature for the smoothest possible filling.
- Don't Overmix: Gently combine ingredients to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause the pie to crack during baking.
- Crust Protection: If the edges of your pie crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- The Jiggle Test: The pie is done when it's set but still has a slight jiggle in the center. It will continue to set as it cools.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature for at least 2 hours to achieve the perfect texture.
- Storage Tip: For the best flavor, serve at room temperature and store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 145mg
