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Chess Pie Recipe

Chess Pie Recipe
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This classic Southern Chess Pie Recipe is an irresistibly creamy and sweet custard pie with a rich, buttery filling featuring a subtle tang from vinegar or lemon juice. Nestled in a flaky pie crust, it offers a comforting texture and nostalgic flavor perfect for any occasion. Made with simple pantry staples, this easy-to-make dessert delights with every silky, golden slice.

Ingredients

Scale

Pie Crust

  • 1 9-inch pre-made or homemade flaky pie crust

Filling

  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1/4 cup milk or buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons cornmeal (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pie crust: Roll out your pie dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim and crimp the edges as desired, then chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling. Chilling helps keep the crust from shrinking during baking.
  2. Mix the filling ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, melted butter, eggs, milk, vinegar or lemon juice, vanilla extract, and cornmeal if using. Make sure everything is combined well to create a smooth, even mixture that will bake to perfection.
  3. Pour filling into crust: Pour the prepared custard filling into your chilled pie crust. Use a spatula to level out the surface gently, ensuring even baking.
  4. Bake the pie: Place the pie on the center rack of a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the filling is set and the top looks lightly browned. Check for doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick in the center—it should come out mostly clean.
  5. Cool and serve: Allow the Chess Pie to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This resting time helps the filling firm up so each slice holds its shape beautifully.

Notes

  • Use room temperature eggs to help the filling combine more smoothly for a consistent texture.
  • Don’t overbake; pull the pie out as soon as the filling is set to avoid a cracked or rubbery surface.
  • Chill your crust beforehand to prevent the dough from shrinking during baking for a neat presentation.
  • Let the pie cool fully to ensure the custard sets properly, making slicing easier and cleaner.
  • If the crust edges brown too fast, tent with foil halfway through baking to protect it from burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chess Pie, Southern dessert, custard pie, easy pie recipe, classic pie, Southern baking, homemade pie

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/chess-pie-recipe/