Go Back
Homemade Southern Chess Pie photo

Southern Chess Pie

This Southern Chess Pie is a classic dessert! With its rich custardy filling and buttery crust, it's sure to impress at any gathering.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pie:
  • 1 19-inch Single Pie Crust Store-bought or homemade, your choice!
  • 3 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Helps to thicken the filling.
  • 3 tablespoons Finely Ground Cornmeal Adds texture and authenticity to the pie.
  • 1 cup Sugar Sweet base of the filling.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract For a warm, aromatic flavor.
  • 1 cup Sour Cream Adds richness and a slight tang.
  • 1 cup Buttermilk Essential for that signature Southern taste.
  • 3 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice Brightens the flavor of the pie.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Enhances the lemon flavor.
  • 6 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Melted, provides richness and moisture.
  • 4 Large Eggs Slightly beaten, creates the custard-like texture.
  • 1 cup Fresh Berries Optional, for a pop of color and freshness.
  • ½ cup Confectioners' Sugar Optional, for dusting on top before serving.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Pie dish
  • Oven

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking.
  2. If using a store-bought crust, place it in your pie dish. If making your own, roll it out and fit it into your dish, trimming any excess.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, finely ground cornmeal, and sugar until well combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk the sour cream, buttermilk, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  5. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
  6. Gently fold in the slightly beaten eggs until well incorporated.
  7. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.
  9. Allow the pie to cool at room temperature before slicing. Serve plain or with fresh berries and a dusting of confectioners' sugar.

Notes

  • Consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangy twist.
  • Mix milk with vinegar or lemon juice as a quick buttermilk substitute.
  • Always allow the pie to cool completely for clean slices.