Beulah'S Lemon Chess Pie
A tangy and sweet lemon chess pie with a delightful cornmeal crust, perfect for gatherings and those who love bright citrus flavors in a classic dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar and eggs in a mixing bowl.
- Toss together flour and corn meal, then add to the sugar and eggs mixture.
- Gradually add milk, melted butter, lemon juice, and grated lemon rind, mixing well.
- Pour the filling into an unbaked pie shell.
- Bake at 375°F for 45 minutes until set and golden.
- Allow to cool before serving; corn meal forms a crust over the pie.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for this Lemon Chess Pie. If you don't have corn meal, you can substitute it with fine ground oats or almond flour. Make sure to beat the eggs thoroughly to incorporate air for a lighter texture. A pinch of salt can enhance the sweetness of the pie, providing a nice balance.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Lemon Chess Pie chilled or at room temperature, paired with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. It complements a light salad or fruit platter beautifully. For a delightful dessert combination, it also pairs well with Ice Cream Brownies, creating a refreshing contrast in flavors and textures.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and warm for 15-20 seconds, or until just heated through. Avoid overheating to maintain the pie's texture, as it can become rubbery if overcooked.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beulah'S Lemon Chess Pie contains roughly 352 calories, with 5g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (47% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 538mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
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 make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Lemon Chess Pie a day in advance. After baking and cooling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
What can I do if my pie doesn't set properly?
If your pie doesn't set after baking, it's possible it needs more time in the oven. Check for a slight jiggle in the center; it should firm up as it cools. If it remains undercooked, return it to the oven at a lower temperature for an additional 10-15 minutes, checking regularly to prevent overbaking.
Is it possible to freeze Lemon Chess Pie?
Yes, you can freeze Lemon Chess Pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and let it come to room temperature before slicing. This pie maintains its flavor well after freezing.
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).