Classic Southern Chess Pie Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups of sugar
  • 3 tablespoons of cornmeal
  • 1/2 cup of butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon of white vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 unbaked pie shell (9 inches)

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. In a large bowl, combine sugar and cornmeal.
  3. Add melted butter, white vinegar, and vanilla extract to the sugar-cornmeal mixture and mix well.
  4. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl and then add to the mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
  5. Pour the mixture into the unbaked pie shell.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the pie is set.
  7. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Serve at room temperature.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use a graham cracker crust instead of a traditional pie crust.
  • Replace the cornmeal with flour for a smoother texture.
  • Add a tablespoon of lemon juice or zest for a hint of citrus flavor.
  • Include a handful of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added crunch.
  • Experiment with different flavors of extracts, such as almond or coconut, instead of vanilla.
  • Try using brown sugar instead of white sugar for a richer flavor.
  • Add a tablespoon of bourbon or rum for a boozy twist.
  • Make it a chocolate chess pie by mixing in 1/4 cup of cocoa powder.
  • For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie crust and substitute cornstarch for the cornmeal.

Recipe overview

This classic Chess Pie recipe is a sweet delight that hails from the South and is simple to prepare. It features a rich, custard-like filling made from sugar, butter, and eggs in a flaky pie crust. The addition of cornmeal and vinegar gives the pie its distinct texture and tang, while a hint of vanilla enhances its overall flavor. The pie bakes to a golden brown, and upon cooling, it sets to a perfect consistency. A slice of this pie offers a heavenly blend of sweetness and tartness that will melt in your mouth. This is the perfect dessert for any occasion, so don't hesitate to try this beloved Southern treat.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of sugar? Yes, you can use alternative sugars such as brown sugar or a combination of white and brown sugar. However, keep in mind that it may affect the flavor and texture of the pie.
  2. Can I substitute cornmeal with something else? Cornmeal is a key ingredient in chess pie as it helps to thicken the filling. It is best to use cornmeal for an authentic chess pie, but if you don't have any, you can try substituting it with an equal amount of all-purpose flour.
  3. Can I use margarine instead of butter? Using margarine instead of butter may alter the taste and texture of the pie. It is recommended to use butter for the best results.
  4. Can I use a store-bought pie crust? Yes, you can use a store-bought pie crust if you prefer. Simply follow the instructions on the packaging for blind baking or pre-bake the crust before adding the filling.
  5. How do I know if the pie is done baking? The pie is done when the top is lightly golden and the filling is set. You can check the doneness by gently shaking the pie - if the center jiggles slightly but the edges are set, it is ready to be removed from the oven.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for mixing the ingredients.
  • Whisk - Use a whisk to beat the eggs and mix the ingredients thoroughly.
  • Pie Dish - A 9-inch pie dish to hold the unbaked pie shell and the pie filling.
  • Wire Rack - A rack to cool the pie after baking.
  • Pie Server - A utensil specifically designed for serving slices of pie.

Origin stories

Hailing from England, Chess pie made a delightful journey across the Atlantic, finding a beloved place in the southern United States. This sweet, custard-like pie is a classic dessert that often sparks debates about its whimsical name. One of the most charming tales suggests that the pie got its name from a southern drawl. When asked what kind of pie was being served, the answer "It's jes' pie" (just pie) was misheard as "Chess pie." With its simplicity and humble ingredients, the name seemingly fits like the last piece of a jigsaw puzzle. Today, it's cherished far and wide for its unique texture and sweetness, a true testament to its journey from the British Isles to the southern charm of the American heartland.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.