Southern pie is a classic dessert that brings together rich, sweet flavors in a way that’s both comforting and indulgent. It’s the kind of pie that evokes nostalgia, bringing back memories of family gatherings, holidays, and those cozy moments around the kitchen table. If you’re looking for a dish that combines simplicity with an irresistible sweetness, this Southern pie is the one you won’t want to lose.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I absolutely love this Southern pie because it’s easy to make yet feels incredibly special. It’s the perfect balance of buttery, sweet, and indulgent, with just the right amount of creaminess. The texture is smooth and velvety, and the flavors meld together in a way that makes each bite better than the last. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can be adjusted with different fillings or toppings depending on the season, so it’s always a crowd-pleaser no matter the occasion. Whether I’m baking for a holiday or just craving something sweet, this pie is my go-to recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter
(Hopefully, you have everything you need! Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk in the heavy cream and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture begins to thicken.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and vanilla extract together.
- Gradually pour the hot cream mixture into the eggs while whisking to temper the eggs.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat until it thickens to a custard-like consistency. Stir in the butter until melted and smooth.
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
- Let the pie cool completely before serving. It’s best enjoyed at room temperature or chilled for a few hours.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
I love experimenting with this Southern pie by adding different flavor variations. Here are a few ideas:
- Chocolate Southern Pie: Add 1/2 cup of melted chocolate to the filling for a rich, chocolatey twist.
- Coconut Southern Pie: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the custard filling for a tropical flair.
- Cinnamon-Spiced Southern Pie: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a cozy, spiced flavor.
These simple additions elevate the pie in fun ways, and it’s always fun to try out new variations depending on what I’m in the mood for.
Storage/Reheating
To store, simply cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The texture of the pie stays delicious and creamy even after a day in the fridge. If I want to reheat it, I usually warm individual slices in the microwave for about 20–30 seconds, or I heat the entire pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until it’s just warm enough to enjoy.
FAQs
How do I make the pie crust from scratch?
Making pie crust from scratch is simple! I use a mixture of flour, butter, and a little bit of cold water. Blend the butter and flour until it forms coarse crumbs, then add water gradually until it comes together as dough. Chill for 30 minutes before rolling out.
Can I freeze this Southern pie?
Yes, I can freeze the pie before baking. Simply assemble the pie, cover it tightly, and freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours and then bake as instructed.
Can I use a store-bought crust?
Of course! I often use a store-bought crust when I’m short on time. Just make sure to follow the directions on the package for pre-baking if needed.
What other toppings go well with Southern pie?
I enjoy topping my Southern pie with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A sprinkle of cinnamon or toasted coconut flakes also makes for a nice touch.
Is this pie very sweet?
Yes, this pie is sweet, but I find it balanced enough that it’s not overwhelming. If I’m looking to tone down the sweetness, I reduce the sugar slightly or pair it with a tart topping, like fresh berries.
Conclusion
This Southern pie is a keeper in my recipe box—rich, sweet, and so comforting. It’s the kind of pie that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday dinner or a casual weekend treat. With its creamy filling and buttery crust, I guarantee it’ll be the star of the show at any gathering. If you haven’t tried it yet, don’t lose this recipe—you won’t regret making it!
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Southern Pie – Don’t LOSE this Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
This Southern pie recipe combines rich, creamy flavors with a buttery, flaky crust to create a nostalgic, indulgent dessert. Perfect for holidays or cozy gatherings, this pie is a crowd-pleaser everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk in the heavy cream and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture begins to thicken.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and vanilla extract together.
- Gradually pour the hot cream mixture into the eggs while whisking to temper the eggs.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat until it thickens to a custard-like consistency. Stir in the butter until melted and smooth.
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
- Let the pie cool completely before serving. It’s best enjoyed at room temperature or chilled for a few hours.
Notes
- You can experiment with flavor variations like chocolate, coconut, or cinnamon-spiced Southern pie.
- For storage, cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or the whole pie at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
- For a homemade crust, combine flour, butter, and cold water. Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling it out.
