If you have a craving for something truly comforting and sweet with that nostalgic Southern charm, this Hillbilly Pie Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. With its creamy custard filling gently nestled in a flaky crust, this pie balances the perfect combination of sweet richness and satisfying texture that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Once you taste this classic dessert, you’ll understand why it has earned its place as a cherished family favorite and an unsung hero at any gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Hillbilly Pie Recipe starts with a handful of simple ingredients that work harmoniously to create that luscious custard texture and golden crust. Each component plays a vital role in making the pie creamy, sweet, and perfectly set.
- 1 pre-made pie crust: Saves time while providing a buttery, flaky base that crisps beautifully in the oven.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds deep caramel warmth and moisture to the custard filling.
- 1/4 cup white sugar: Balances sweetness and helps set the custard as it bakes.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Essential for thickening the filling to that silky custard consistency.
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk: Creates the rich, smooth base for the custard’s creamy texture.
- 3 large egg yolks: The secret to that luxurious mouthfeel and pie-setting magic.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the pie with warm fragrant notes that elevate the flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and a glossy finish to the custard.
How to Make Hillbilly Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Pie Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pre-made pie crust into your pie dish and bake it for about 10 minutes. This initial bake creates the perfect golden, crisp shell that will hold your custard filling without getting soggy. Keep an eye on the edges to prevent over-browning.
Step 2: Mix Sugars and Cornstarch
In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, white sugar, and cornstarch. This dry base is crucial because it evenly distributes sweetness and thickening power throughout the custard.
Step 3: Gradually Add Milk and Stir
Slowly whisk in the whole milk to the saucepan, stirring continuously as you pour. This gradual process helps dissolve the sugars and cornstarch without lumps, setting the stage for a smooth custard.
Step 4: Cook Until Thickened
Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly. You’ll notice the mixture slowly thicken to a creamy, custard-like consistency — this usually takes just a few minutes, so don’t step away. Patience here guarantees smoothness without curdling.
Step 5: Add Egg Yolks, Vanilla, and Butter
Remove the pan from heat and quickly whisk in the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and butter. The residual heat gently cooks the eggs while the butter melts into the custard, creating unbeatable silkiness and flavor depth.
Step 6: Pour Filling and Bake
Pour your luscious custard filling into the pre-baked crust. Return the pie to the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the pie is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. It will firm up as it cools, so don’t overbake!
Step 7: Cool Completely Before Serving
Allow the pie to cool fully at room temperature. This step is important as it lets the custard finish setting and intensifies the flavors. A slice of this pie cooled just right is simply irresistible.
How to Serve Hillbilly Pie Recipe
Garnishes
For a lovely finishing touch, sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or a pinch of cinnamon over the top. Fresh whipped cream dolloped on each slice adds a soft, airy contrast to the silky custard. You can also toss on some toasted pecans to bring in a delightful crunch and nutty aroma.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with simple vanilla ice cream or a scoop of homemade peach sorbet to cut through the richness. For a Southern-inspired meal, serve alongside chilled sweet tea or a robust cup of coffee to bring out the pie’s warmth.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Hillbilly Pie Recipe in individual mini tart shells for a fun, party-ready look. Another idea is to drizzle caramel sauce or a berry coulis on each plate to add color and textural contrast. These extra touches make the humble pie feel even more special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your freshly baked Hillbilly Pie, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days without losing its creamy texture or flavor.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead, you can freeze the pie after baking and cooling completely. Wrap it securely with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To gently warm your pie slice, place it in a low oven around 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes or until just heated through. Avoid microwaving, which can make the custard rubbery. Reheat slowly to maintain that luscious texture you love from the Hillbilly Pie Recipe.
FAQs
Can I make Hillbilly Pie Recipe from scratch without a pre-made crust?
Absolutely! You can use any homemade pie crust recipe you like. Just be sure to blind bake it first to prevent sogginess, just like with the pre-made crust.
What can I substitute for whole milk?
Whole milk is preferred for richness, but you can try 2% milk for a lighter version. Avoid skim milk as it may result in a thinner custard that doesn’t set as well.
Is this pie best served warm or cold?
This pie shines most when served at room temperature or slightly chilled after cooling completely, allowing the custard to set perfectly. Warm slices can be enjoyed too but may be a bit softer.
Can I add any flavor variations?
Definitely! Try stirring in a handful of chocolate chips or a few spoonfuls of bourbon to the custard for a fun twist on the classic Hillbilly Pie Recipe.
How do I know when the pie is fully set?
The center should still have a slight jiggle but not be liquid when you gently shake the pan. It will firm up as it cools. Overbaking can cause cracks or a rubbery texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the Hillbilly Pie Recipe that keeps folks coming back for more: a simple list of ingredients transforming into an irresistibly creamy, sweet, and nostalgic dessert. If you haven’t tried making it yet, I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a go. It’s a recipe that feels like coming home with every bite and easy enough to make any day of the week. Your next family get-together just found its new superstar dessert!
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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 comforting Southern dessert featuring a rich, creamy custard filling baked inside a flaky pre-made pie crust. With a sweet blend of brown and white sugars, enhanced by vanilla and butter, this pie offers a perfect balance of sweetness and smooth texture, finished with a golden crust.
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 Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pre-made pie crust into a pie dish and bake it for 10 minutes or until it turns golden brown. This pre-baking step ensures a crisp bottom crust that won’t get soggy once the filling is added.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, white sugar, and cornstarch. Stir them together to distribute the cornstarch evenly, which will help thicken the custard filling.
- Add Milk Gradually: Gradually whisk in the whole milk to the sugar and cornstarch mixture until it becomes smooth and free of lumps. This will become the base of the custard.
- Cook Custard Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture while stirring constantly. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens to a custard-like consistency, ensuring it does not burn or stick to the bottom of the pan.
- Add Egg Yolks and Flavor: Remove the saucepan from heat. Whisk in the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and butter thoroughly until the filling is smooth and glossy. The egg yolks enrich the custard and help it set during baking.
- Fill and Bake Pie: Pour the custard filling into the pre-baked pie crust. Return the pie to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the pie is set and the custard no longer jiggles in the center.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely to finish setting the custard before serving. This cooling step helps enhance the texture and flavor.
Notes
- Using a pre-made pie crust reduces preparation time without compromising taste.
- Whisk the milk in gradually to prevent lumps in the custard base.
- Constant stirring during cooking prevents the custard from sticking and ensures even thickening.
- Allowing the pie to cool fully before serving ensures the custard sets properly and slices cleanly.
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk, but 2% milk can be substituted for a lighter version.
