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Homemade Southern Chess Pie photo

Southern Chess Pie

This Southern Chess Pie is a creamy, tangy delight! With a flaky crust and a rich filling, it’s perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pie:
  • 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

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Pie dish
  • Oven
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Step 1: Preheat the Oven - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your pie bakes evenly.
  2. 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.
  3. Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, and sugar until well combined.
  4. Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients - In another bowl, mix the sour cream, buttermilk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. Step 7: Pour into Crust - Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze the pie for up to 3 months, wrapped tightly.
  • Reheat gently in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes after thawing.