Aunt Ceil'S Chess Pie
A rich, sweet chess pie with a buttery flavor and smooth custard-like texture, perfect for dessert lovers seeking a classic Southern treat. Suitable for family gatherings and holidays.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Mix sugar and flour in a bowl.
- Pour in melted margarine, then add buttermilk and mix together.
- Add beaten eggs and mix thoroughly.
- Stir in vanilla and lemon extract until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a 9-inch unbaked pie shell.
- Bake for 10 minutes at 425°F, then reduce temperature to 350°F.
- Continue baking for an additional 25 minutes until the pie is set and done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Make sure to mix the ingredients gently to avoid overmixing, which can affect the texture of the pie. This pie is known for its simplicity, making it a classic in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Ceil's Chess Pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a cup of coffee for a delightful dessert experience. For a unique twist, try serving it alongside Chewy Blond Brownies for a dessert platter that impresses.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chess pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It can last up to 4 days. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm it up in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Ceil'S Chess Pie contains roughly 206 calories, with 4g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 4g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a store-bought pie crust for this recipe?
Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust can save you time and still deliver a delicious result. Just make sure to follow the baking instructions on the package for best results.
What can I substitute for the lemon extract?
If you don't have lemon extract, you can use an equal amount of lemon juice for a fresher flavor. Alternatively, a bit of almond extract can also add a lovely twist to the pie.
How can I tell when the pie is done?
The pie is done when the center is set and does not jiggle when gently shaken. It should have a slight golden color on top. If the edges start to brown too quickly, cover them with foil.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).