You’ll love Chess Pie for its simplicity and its irresistible, sugary custard flavor. It requires no fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients, making it an ideal go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you serve it warm, chilled, or at room temperature, each slice delivers old-fashioned comfort and sweetness.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Butter (melted)
Cornmeal
All-purpose flour
Milk or evaporated milk
White vinegar or lemon juice
Vanilla extract
Salt
Unbaked pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, cornmeal, flour, and salt.
Add the eggs, milk, melted butter, vinegar (or lemon juice), and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and fully combined.
Pour the filling into the unbaked pie crust.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden and slightly puffed.
Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. It will firm up more as it cools.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes one 9-inch pie, serving approximately 8 people. Prep time: 10–15 minutes Cook time: 45–50 minutes Total time: 1 hour to 1 hour 5 minutes
Variations
Lemon Chess Pie: Add lemon zest and use lemon juice instead of vinegar for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Buttermilk Chess Pie: Substitute buttermilk for regular milk for a tangy twist.
Chocolate Chess Pie: Mix in cocoa powder for a fudgy version.
Brown Sugar Twist: Use half brown sugar for a deeper, molasses-like flavor.
Crust alternative: Use a graham cracker or shortbread crust for a modern variation.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, microwave individual slices for 15–20 seconds or enjoy chilled. Chess Pie can also be frozen. Wrap tightly in plastic and foil, freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
FAQs
What is Chess Pie made of?
Chess Pie is made of sugar, eggs, butter, milk, cornmeal, and vinegar or lemon juice, baked in an unbaked pie shell to create a custard-style dessert with a slightly crisp top.
Why is it called Chess Pie?
The origin of the name is debated, but one theory is it comes from “just pie,” said with a Southern accent. Another theory is it was stored in a pie “chest.”
What does Chess Pie taste like?
It’s sweet and buttery with a creamy texture, like a sugar custard. The vinegar or lemon juice adds a subtle tang that balances the richness.
Do I need to refrigerate Chess Pie?
You can leave it at room temperature for up to 2 days, but for longer storage, it’s best to keep it in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze Chess Pie?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Is cornmeal necessary?
Yes, cornmeal gives the pie its signature texture and helps set the custard. It’s a defining ingredient in traditional Chess Pie.
Can I use store-bought crust?
Absolutely. A store-bought unbaked pie crust works perfectly and saves time.
Can I use vinegar and lemon juice interchangeably?
Yes, both provide the slight acidity needed to balance the sweetness. Use whichever you prefer or have on hand.
How do I know when Chess Pie is done?
The pie is done when the center is just set and the top is golden. It should have a slight jiggle in the center but not be too loose.
Can I add toppings?
Yes, whipped cream, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar all make great toppings without overpowering the pie.
Conclusion
Chess Pie is a simple, sweet Southern dessert that proves you don’t need elaborate ingredients to make something truly special. Its creamy, custard-like filling and crackly sugar top make every bite a nostalgic delight. Whether you’re new to Chess Pie or it’s a longtime family favorite, this classic recipe is sure to satisfy every time.
Chess Pie is a traditional Southern dessert featuring a sweet, creamy custard-like filling with a signature crackly top. Made from pantry staples like sugar, eggs, and cornmeal, it’s a simple yet indulgent pie that’s perfect for any occasion.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:50 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 5 minutes
Yield:1 pie (serves 8)
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Southern
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tbsp cornmeal
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
1/2 cup milk or evaporated milk
1 tbsp white vinegar or lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornmeal, flour, and salt.
Add the eggs, milk, melted butter, vinegar or lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
Pour the filling into the unbaked pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula if needed.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden and slightly puffed.
Remove from oven and let the pie cool completely. It will continue to set as it cools.
Notes
Substitute buttermilk for milk to make Buttermilk Chess Pie.Add lemon zest and use lemon juice for a citrusy Lemon Chess Pie.Use half brown sugar for a deeper, richer flavor.Graham cracker or shortbread crusts offer modern twists.Wrap tightly to freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
