If you’ve never tried it before, the Hillbilly Pie Recipe is a delightful Southern treat that combines a luscious custard filling with a perfectly flaky pre-made crust. It’s one of those desserts that feels like a warm hug from an old friend, rich in comforting flavors yet wonderfully easy to make. The smooth, custardy texture paired with the sweet caramel notes from brown sugar makes this pie a standout at any gathering, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Hillbilly Pie Recipe is a breeze because each one plays an essential role, creating a harmony of sweet, creamy, and richly textured elements. The simplicity here lets the natural flavors shine, making the baking process both satisfying and straightforward.
- Pre-made pie crust: A shortcut that guarantees flaky, buttery base without any fuss.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Adds deep molasses notes and a warm sweetness that defines the filling’s rich flavor.
- White sugar (1/4 cup): Balances the sweetness and helps achieve the perfect caramelized taste.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): The magic thickener that gives the filling its silky custard texture.
- Whole milk (1 1/2 cups): Ensures the filling is creamy and smooth, enhancing the overall mouthfeel.
- Large egg yolks (3): Contribute to creaminess and richness while helping the filling set just right.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a fragrant, warm undertone that elevates every bite.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Finishes the filling with a luscious richness and a hint of silkiness.
How to Make Hillbilly Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Pie Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Fit your pre-made pie crust into a pie dish and give it a head start by baking for about 10 minutes until it turns a lovely golden color. This initial baking ensures your crust stays crisp and prevents sogginess once the filling goes in.
Step 2: Combine the Sugars and Cornstarch
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the brown sugar, white sugar, and cornstarch. This dry mix is the foundation for that irresistible custard filling and helps thicken it just right.
Step 3: Add the Milk Gradually
Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly to keep the mixture smooth and lump-free. This gradual blending sets up the custard to cook evenly, avoiding any clumps.
Step 4: Cook the Filling Until Thickened
Over medium heat, continue stirring the mixture nonstop. Watch closely as it thickens, transforming into a custard-like consistency. This step is key for the pie to have that creamy texture everyone loves.
Step 5: Incorporate the Egg Yolks, Vanilla, and Butter
Remove the pan from the heat and vigorously whisk in the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and butter. This combination enriches the filling, making it velvety smooth and full of depth.
Step 6: Fill the Crust and Bake Again
Pour your luscious filling into the pre-baked crust. Place the pie back in the oven and bake for another 25 to 30 minutes until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center—this is exactly how you want it.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Patience is a virtue with this Hillbilly Pie Recipe! Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to let it finish setting and develop its full flavor.
How to Serve Hillbilly Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving, consider dusting the top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or cinnamon for an inviting aroma. Fresh whipped cream on the side adds a delightful lightness that complements the pie’s sweetness beautifully.
Side Dishes
Since the Hillbilly Pie Recipe is rich and comforting, pairing it with something fresh, like a crisp green salad or seasonal fruit, can balance the meal nicely. For more indulgence, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a dreamy dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual slices in pretty dessert plates with a drizzle of caramel syrup or honey for extra flavor and flair. Another fun idea is to cut mini pies using a muffin tin for party-sized portions that delight guests with both taste and presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is a blessing in disguise), wrap the pie tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate and enjoy within 3 to 4 days for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
The Hillbilly Pie Recipe freezes quite well! Wrap it securely in several layers of plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. Frozen pie will keep nicely for up to 2 months, ready to be thawed and enjoyed later.
Reheating
When ready to eat, thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator. You can warm slices slightly in a low-temperature oven (around 300°F) for 10-15 minutes to refresh that just-baked feel without drying out the custard.
FAQs
Can I make Hillbilly Pie Recipe from scratch instead of using a pre-made crust?
Absolutely! While the pre-made crust is a convenient option, a homemade pie crust adds a homemade touch that’s well worth the extra effort, giving you control over texture and flavor.
Is there a way to make this pie dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap whole milk with almond milk or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free butter substitute. Keep in mind the texture might change slightly but will still be delicious.
What if I don’t have cornstarch? Can I use something else?
In a pinch, you can substitute cornstarch with all-purpose flour (use about twice the amount), but you may need to cook the filling a bit longer to achieve the right thickness.
How long should I let the pie cool before serving?
Ideally, allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature, which usually takes about 1-2 hours. This helps the filling to set properly and makes slicing much easier.
Can I prepare the filling the day before baking?
It’s best to bake the filling right after making it to ensure the custard sets well. However, you can prepare the crust a day ahead and refrigerate it, making the baking process quicker.
Final Thoughts
Sharing this Hillbilly Pie Recipe has me excited because it’s one of those soulful desserts that’s simple yet incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re new to Southern cooking or looking to bring a bit of heartwarming tradition to your table, this pie is a winner. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself making it again and again, forming your own sweet memories one slice at a time.
Print
Hillbilly Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
Hillbilly Pie is a rich and creamy custard-based dessert featuring a buttery pre-made pie crust filled with a smooth blend of brown and white sugars, cornstarch-thickened whole milk, egg yolks, and vanilla. This comforting Southern-style pie is baked until perfectly set, delivering a classic, sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 pre-made pie crust
Filling
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Bake Pie Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pre-made pie crust into a pie dish and bake for about 10 minutes or until the crust turns golden and slightly crisp. This helps to avoid a soggy base once the filling is added.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, white sugar, and cornstarch to create the base for the custard filling.
- Add Milk Gradually: Gradually whisk in the whole milk to the dry mixture, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and free of lumps.
- Cook Custard Base: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly to prevent sticking or burning, until it thickens to a custard-like consistency, which should take several minutes.
- Add Egg Yolks and Flavorings: Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly whisk in the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and butter ensuring everything is fully incorporated for a creamy texture.
- Fill Pie Crust and Bake: Pour the custard filling into the pre-baked pie crust and return it to the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pie filling is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving to ensure the perfect consistency and flavor.
Notes
- Use a pre-made pie crust for ease and time-saving, or substitute with a homemade crust if preferred.
- Constant stirring during cooking prevents lumps and ensures a smooth custard.
- Make sure the pie is cooled completely before serving to allow the filling to set properly.
- For a richer flavor, you can substitute whole milk with half-and-half or heavy cream.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
