Miss Martha'S Chess Pie
A buttery, slightly tangy chocolate‑like pie that leans on cornmeal and coffee creamer for a unique texture—perfect for nostalgic dessert lovers and comfort‑food seekers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream sugar and butter together until light and fluffy.
- Add cornmeal, coffee creamer and vinegar and mix thoroughly.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
- Blend in vanilla.
- Pour the mixture into the chilled pie crust.
- Bake at 350°F for 50 minutes until the center is set but still slightly wobbly.
- Allow the pie to cool completely before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of regular butter. If you don't have Martha White self-rising cornmeal, you can substitute it with regular cornmeal and add 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation. This pie is incredibly sweet, so serving it with a dollop of whipped cream can help balance the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Miss Martha's Chess Pie chilled or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an added touch, consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad or with a slice of Five Cup Carrot Salad for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chess pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, where it can last for up to 4 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and warm for about 15-20 seconds, or until just warmed through. Avoid overheating to prevent the texture from becoming rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Miss Martha'S Chess Pie contains roughly 362 calories, with 1g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 7g 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 different type of pie crust?
Yes, you can use a pre-made or homemade pie crust of your choice. A graham cracker crust can add a nice flavor twist, while a shortcrust pastry will provide a different texture. Just ensure that it is fully baked before adding the filling.
Is it possible to make this pie without eggs?
While eggs are essential for the structure and richness of chess pie, you can try using egg substitutes such as flaxseed meal mixed with water or commercial egg replacers. However, the texture and flavor might differ slightly from the traditional recipe.
How can I tell when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the edges are set and the center is slightly wobbly but not liquid. It will continue to firm up as it cools. If you notice the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it with foil during the last few minutes of baking.
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).