Name: Southern Chess Pie
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 19-inch pie single pie crust (store-bought or homemade); 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 3 tablespoons finely ground cornmeal; 1 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup buttermilk; 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); 4 large eggs; 1 cup fresh berries (optional for garnish); ½ cup confectioners' sugar (optional for dusting)

Southern Chess Pie is a classic dessert that embodies the essence of Southern comfort food. With its creamy texture, sweet and tangy flavor, and a perfectly flaky crust, this pie is a staple at family gatherings, holiday celebrations, and potlucks across the South. The beauty of Southern Chess Pie lies in its simplicity—made with basic ingredients, it is both easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this pie is sure to impress.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Southern Chess Pie recipe stands out for its rich blend of flavors and textures. The combination of buttermilk and sour cream creates a luscious filling that is both creamy and slightly tangy. The addition of fresh lemon juice and zest provides a bright contrast to the sweetness of the sugar, elevating the pie to a whole new level. The finely ground cornmeal adds a subtle nuttiness that complements the rich filling, while the flaky pie crust provides the perfect vessel for all these delicious flavors. Each slice of Southern Chess Pie is a delightful experience, making it a beloved dessert for many.

Your Shopping Guide

To make this Southern Chess Pie, here’s what you’ll need to gather from your local grocery store:

19-inch pie single pie crust – You can use a store-bought crust or make your own from scratch.
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – This helps to stabilize the filling.
3 tablespoons finely ground cornmeal – Adds texture and flavor to the pie.
1 cup sugar – Sweetens the filling beautifully.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For a warm, aromatic flavor.
1 cup sour cream – Contributes to the creamy texture.
1 cup buttermilk – Adds tanginess and richness.
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – Brightens the flavor of the pie.
1 tablespoon lemon zest – Enhances the lemon flavor.
6 tablespoons unsalted butter – Must be melted for the filling.
4 large eggs – Provides structure to the pie.
1 cup fresh berries (optional) – For garnish and added flavor.
½ cup confectioners’ sugar (optional) – For dusting on top before serving.

Appliances & Accessories

To successfully make your Southern Chess Pie, you’ll need a few key kitchen tools:

Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients.
Whisk – To blend the ingredients smoothly.
Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate measurements.
Pie dish – To bake your pie in.
Oven – To bake the pie until golden and set.
Cooling rack – For cooling the pie after baking.

Step-by-Step: Southern Chess Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your pie bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust

If you’re using a store-bought pie crust, fit it into your pie dish and crimp the edges. If making from scratch, roll out your dough to fit the dish. Place the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, and sugar until well combined.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the sour cream, buttermilk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 5: Add the Eggs and Butter

Add the slightly beaten eggs and melted butter to the wet mixture. Stir until everything is well blended.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Whisk until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Pour into Crust

Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 8: Bake

Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.

Step 9: Cool

Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. This allows the filling to firm up as it cools.

Step 10: Serve

Before serving, you can optionally dust the top with confectioners’ sugar and garnish with fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

If you find yourself missing an ingredient or looking for alternatives, consider the following swaps:

Sour Cream – Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for a similar tangy flavor.
Buttermilk – Mix one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with a cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes to create a buttermilk substitute.
Butter – Coconut oil or a plant-based butter can be used for a dairy-free option.
Fresh Lemon Juice – If fresh lemons aren’t available, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

Problems & Prevention

To ensure your Southern Chess Pie turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

Crust Shrinking – Make sure to properly chill your pie crust before adding the filling to prevent it from shrinking during baking.
Overbaking – Keep an eye on your pie as it bakes. The edges should be set, and the center may still jiggle slightly when you take it out of the oven.
Filling Not Setting – If your pie is undercooked, it may not set properly. Ensure you bake it long enough for the filling to firm up.
Cooling Time – Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to achieve clean cuts and a better texture.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

To keep your Southern Chess Pie fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the pie for longer storage—wrap it well in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and it will stay good for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes before serving.

Helpful Q&A

Can I make Southern Chess Pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pie a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to let it cool completely before covering it.

What can I serve with Southern Chess Pie?

This pie pairs beautifully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of fresh cream. Fresh berries also make a lovely accompaniment.

Can I use a different crust for this pie?

Absolutely! While a traditional pie crust is classic, you can experiment with graham cracker crusts or even a chocolate cookie crust for a fun twist.

How do I know when my Southern Chess Pie is done baking?

The pie should be golden brown on top, and the filling should be set with a slight jiggle in the center. It will continue to firm up as it cools.

Final Thoughts

Southern Chess Pie is not just a dessert; it’s a slice of tradition that carries the warmth and love of home-cooked meals. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in a quiet evening at home, this pie is a wonderful way to bring a little Southern charm into your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and let the delightful aroma of Southern Chess Pie fill your home—your taste buds will thank you!