Highway Cafe Chess Pie is a classic Southern dessert that’s beloved for its simplicity and rich, sweet flavor. This pie features a creamy, custard-like filling made from basic pantry ingredients like sugar, eggs, butter, and cornmeal, which gives it a unique texture and slight crunch. Infused with a hint of vanilla and a touch of lemon juice, the filling is both rich and refreshing, offering a balanced sweetness that’s impossible to resist. Baked to golden perfection in a flaky pie crust, Chess Pie is perfect for serving at family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or as a comforting treat any day of the week. With its origins tracing back to Southern roadside diners, this pie brings a nostalgic, comforting taste of the South to your table.
Ingredients:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp cornmeal
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 3 large eggs, beaten
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan, crimping the edges as desired.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornmeal, flour, and salt until well combined. Add the melted butter, whole milk, vinegar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth. Stir in the beaten eggs, ensuring the filling is well mixed.
- Fill the Pie Crust:
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the Pie:
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. The center should be slightly jiggly but will firm up as it cools. If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with a strip of aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Cool the Pie:
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This will help the filling to set properly.
- Serve:
- Slice the Highway Cafe Chess Pie and serve it at room temperature or chilled. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Highway Cafe Chess Pie is a simple yet indulgent dessert that brings the comforting flavors of the South to your kitchen. With its creamy texture, sweet custard filling, and flaky crust, this pie is sure to become a favorite for any occasion.
