Granny'S Chess Pie

Prep: 10 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A rich, classic Southern-style chess pie with sweet custard flavors, featuring a crisp crust and smooth filling, perfect for family gatherings and holiday dessert tables.

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Ingredients

  • 3 whole eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 3/4 stick butter, melted and cooled
  • 1/4 cup half and half
  • 1 tablespoon cornmeal
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
  2. Beat eggs and add sugar, then pour in cooled melted butter, vinegar, vanilla, milk, and cornmeal.
  3. Mix thoroughly until smooth.
  4. Pour the mixture into an unbaked pie crust.
  5. Bake for 10 minutes at 375°F.
  6. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F and bake for an additional 50 minutes until set.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother filling, ensure your butter is completely cooled before mixing. If you don't have half and half, substitute with equal parts milk and cream. Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the flavors. To make this pie even richer, consider incorporating a teaspoon of vanilla extract. This chess pie pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Granny's Chess Pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a classic dessert experience. It also pairs nicely with fresh berries or a fruit salad on the side. For a delightful twist, consider serving alongside the Delicious Strawberry Salad for a refreshing contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover chess pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or enjoy cold straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Granny'S Chess Pie contains roughly 234 calories, with 2g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value).

234 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.7g 3% DV
Total Fat 2.8g 4% DV
Carbs 24.8g 9% DV
Fiber 1.8g 6% DV
Sugar 5.7g 11% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 37.5mg 2% DV
Potassium 224mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 33mg 11% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 6.7mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 13.7mg 15% DV
Calcium 38.7mg 3% DV
Iron 0.5mg 3% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg

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 can save you time and still yield a delicious chess pie. Just make sure to follow any instructions on the package regarding pre-baking if necessary.

What can I do if my pie filling is too runny?

If your filling seems too runny before baking, try adding a bit more cornmeal to help thicken it. Additionally, ensure that you're measuring your ingredients accurately, especially the eggs and sugar.

Can I freeze this pie?

Yes, you can freeze chess pie! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

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).

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