I lived in Georgia for over a decade and never once heard anyone mention chess pie. It appears to be a regional favorite and not an overall Southern thing. It is particularly popular in the Appalachian states such as Tennessee and Virginia. Some experts believe in the United States chess pie originated in Virginia. There are documented references to Martha Washington having her own versions. Regardless of the history or its origin, chess pie is considered to be a Southern staple.
Chess pie is created from simple ingredients such as sugar, eggs, cornmeal, and butter. Most culinary experts think of it as a custard pie with the notable addition of cornmeal. From there the recipes all vary in different directions. Some include vinegar while others include heaving whipping cream. The classic or traditional version is much more simple and features the creamy custard texture everyone loves.
Chess pie is known for its rich and sweet custard texture with a slightly caramelized top. The combination of creamy interior and crisp top is a major reason why it is so popular. Most people who haven’t tried chess pie have no idea what they’re missing. Chess pie is beloved not simply because it uses common ingredients but because it’s easy to make and requires no special baking skills or techniques to make.
This recipe uses a refrigerated pie crust, which you will have to prebake. This is also called blind baking. The directions should be on the package. The most common recommendation is to bake the crust at 400-425℉ for around 10 minutes. Old school bakers recommend using parchment paper and pie weights during the prebaking process. The easiest method is to use a fork to prick holes in the bottom and sides of the crust. Check the crust while baking, and if you notice any bubbles forming, pop them with the fork.
Variations of Chess Pie
Apple Chess Pie
Traditional chess pie with sweet apple flavor.
Buttermilk Chess Pie
Buttermilk chess pie is one of the more popular variations of the traditional Southern pie. Not everyone loves buttermilk but those who love chess pie seem to crave it.
Chocolate Chess Pie
Classic chess pie with that chocolatey flavor we all recognize.
Chocolate Cranberry Chess Pie
The tangy flavor of cranberries combined with the richness of chocolate and custard for a truly unique dessert.
Coconut Chess Pie
Sweet, creamy chess pie with the added sweetness of flaky coconut.
Lemon Chess Pie
Traditional chess pie with the notable flavor of lemon.
Orange Chess Pie
Classic chess pie with orange flavor that’s undeniable.
Oreo Cookie Chess Pie
You read it right! Chess pie with everyone’s favorite cookie – Oreos.
Raspberry Chess Pie
Classic chess pie with a sweet raspberry flavor.
Strawberry Chess Pie
You’ll think this pie is sheer Strawberries & Cream because of the perfect blend of strawberry and custard.
Vanilla Chess Pie
Classic chess pie with the aromatic flavor and texture of sweet vanilla.
What You’ll Need
Utensils & Tools
- 9-inch pie plate
- Wire cooling rack
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cup
- Set of measuring spoons
- Spoon or spatula
- Wire whisk
Key Ingredients
- Parbaked pie crust (see directions in recipe on how to parbake your crust)
- Granulated sugar
- Large eggs
- Evaporated milk
- Cornmeal
- Distilled white vinegar
- Vanilla extract
- Ground nutmeg
Classic Chess Pie Recipe
Utensils & Equipment
- 1 9-inch pie plate
- 1 wire cooling rack
- 1 large bowl
- 1 wire whisk
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 set of measuring spoons
- 1 spatula or spoon
Ingredients List
- 1 refrigerated pie crust
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup butter melted then cooled
- 1/4 cup cornmeal
- 4 eggs large
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 Tbsp distilled white vinegar
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour
Instructions
Bake The Crust
- You'll need to prebake or "blind bake" the crust. The directions should be on the package. In general you'll want to bake the crust at 400-425℉ for 10 minutes then allow it to cool completely.
- Be sure to use a fork to prick holes in the bottom and sides of the crust. If you notice any bubbles while baking, pop them with the fork.
- While waiting for the crust to cool, lower the oven temperature to 350℉.
Prepare The Filling
- In large bowl whisk together the eggs until slightly blended.
- To the eggs add the sugar, butter, milk, cornmeal, flour, vinegar, vanilla extract and nutmeg. Blend until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
Fill The Crust
- Pour the mixture into the cooled crust.
Bake To Perfection
- Bake on middle rack at 350℉ for 40-45 minutes or until the center of the pie is no longer jiggly.
- Pie is done when the crust is golden brown AND the center is fully set.
- If the edge of the crust is getting too brown, wrap strips of aluminum foil around the edge.
Cool Down
- Allow to sit on wire cooling rack until completely cool.