Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Southern Pie is an old-fashioned favorite for a reason. It’s incredibly easy to make with minimal ingredients, yet it yields a rich, sweet, and velvety pie that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner. The balance of flavors — buttery, slightly caramelized, and kissed with vanilla — makes each bite a nostalgic indulgence. It’s a no-fuss dessert with all the charm of a passed-down family recipe.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Unbaked pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- Eggs
- Granulated sugar
- Unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
- All-purpose flour
- Whole milk or evaporated milk
- Vanilla extract
- Salt
- Nutmeg (optional, for a warm, spiced finish)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate and crimp the edges.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Stir in the flour and salt, followed by the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust and smooth the top.
- Sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg over the top if using.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Let the pie cool at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours for best texture.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature, plain or topped with whipped cream.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 8 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Cooling time: 2 hours
Total time: 3 hours
Variations
- Coconut Southern Pie: Add shredded sweetened coconut to the filling for added texture and flavor.
- Buttermilk Pie: Substitute whole milk with buttermilk for a tangy twist.
- Bourbon twist: Add a splash of bourbon to the filling for a grown-up Southern flavor.
- Crustless version: Pour the filling into a greased pie dish without crust for a gluten-free option.
- Lemon note: Add a bit of lemon zest to brighten the flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store the pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days.
It can be served cold or gently warmed in the microwave for 10–15 seconds per slice.
To freeze, wrap the pie tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
FAQs
What is Southern Pie?
Southern Pie is a custard-style dessert made with eggs, sugar, butter, and milk, baked into a flaky crust. It’s sometimes called “sugar pie” or “transparent pie” depending on regional variations.
Is this pie the same as chess pie?
It’s very similar, though chess pie often includes cornmeal and sometimes vinegar. This version is more of a plain custard-style Southern pie.
Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes, a store-bought pie crust works great and saves time.
Should I blind bake the crust?
No, blind baking isn’t necessary since the filling bakes for a long time and cooks the crust fully.
Can I use evaporated milk?
Yes, evaporated milk makes the pie richer and more traditional in flavor.
Why is my pie jiggly in the center?
It should jiggle slightly like custard but not be liquid. It will continue to set as it cools.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day after chilling.
What toppings go well with Southern Pie?
Try whipped cream, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
How do I know when the pie is done?
The edges should be set, and the center should have a slight jiggle. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to bake in two separate pie dishes to ensure even cooking.
Conclusion
Southern Pie is a true comfort dessert — simple, sweet, and full of heart. With its silky filling, buttery crust, and warm vanilla flavor, it’s the kind of pie that brings back memories and makes new ones with every slice. Whether served at a holiday table or as a weekday treat, this classic dessert is always a welcome guest.
PrintSouthern Pie
Southern Pie is a classic custard-style dessert with a buttery crust, silky filling, and warm vanilla flavor. Simple yet indulgent, it’s a beloved Southern tradition perfect for holidays, potlucks, or family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk or evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie plate and crimp the edges.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Stir in flour and salt, then add melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Pour filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top.
- Sprinkle nutmeg on top, if using.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
- Cool at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature with whipped cream, if desired.
Notes
- Evaporated milk gives a richer, more traditional flavor.
- The pie will continue to set as it cools, so don’t overbake.
- Make ahead — it tastes even better the next day.
- Add bourbon, coconut, or lemon zest for flavor variations.
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 33g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
