Black Walnut Chess
Black Walnut Chess is a rich, creamy pie featuring chopped black walnuts and a smooth custard filling, perfect for nut lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat softened margarine and sugar in a bowl until well combined.
- Add flour, salt, egg yolks, and evaporated milk; beat with a mixer until the mixture is well mixed.
- Stir in vanilla and chopped black walnuts.
- Pour the mixture into a chilled unbaked pie shell.
- Bake on the lower shelf of a 375°F (190°C) oven for 45 minutes, until the center is almost set but still soft.
- Cool thoroughly on a wire rack before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting butter for margarine. If black walnuts are hard to find, regular walnuts can be used, though the taste will be milder. Make sure to chill the pie shell for at least 30 minutes before filling to prevent a soggy bottom. Also, ensure that the mixture is well combined to achieve a smooth texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Black Walnut Chess pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance its rich flavors. It pairs beautifully with Frozen Mint Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a more indulgent experience, consider serving it alongside Yummy Chocolate Fudge Cake for a dessert spread that will impress any guest.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or pop the whole pie in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black Walnut Chess contains roughly 325 calories, with 7g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value) and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 938mg per serving (41% 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 use a store-bought pie crust for this recipe?
Yes, a store-bought pie crust is a great time saver and will work well for this recipe. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for pre-baking if required, as this can help achieve a crispier crust.
How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly but not liquid. It will continue to firm up as it cools. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean.
Can I freeze the pie after baking?
Yes, you can freeze the pie for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.
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).