Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man’s Pie)

Hillbilly Pie, also known as Poor Man’s Pie, is a simple, old-fashioned dessert that comes from the tradition of making the most out of pantry staples. This pie features a rich, custard-like filling made with basic ingredients like sugar, eggs, and butter, all baked in a flaky crust. It’s a budget-friendly, no-fuss dessert with a sweet, caramelized flavor that has been loved for generations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Budget-Friendly – Made with inexpensive pantry staples.
• Easy to Make – No fancy techniques or special equipment required.
• Rich and Comforting – A sweet, custard-like filling with a caramelized top.
• Classic and Nostalgic – A traditional recipe passed down through generations.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for family gatherings, holidays, or a simple dessert.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unbaked pie crust
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Butter (melted)
• All-purpose flour
• Milk
• Vanilla extract
• Ground nutmeg or cinnamon (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Pie Crust – Place the unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan and set aside.
3. Make the Filling – In a bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, flour, milk, vanilla extract, and nutmeg (if using) until smooth.
4. Pour into the Crust – Carefully pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust.
5. Bake – Place in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden on top. The center should be firm but slightly jiggly.
6. Cool – Let the pie cool at room temperature before slicing.
7. Serve – Enjoy warm or chilled, optionally topped with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour

Variations

• Spiced Version – Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of cloves for extra warmth.
• Nutty Twist – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
• Chocolate Hillbilly Pie – Stir in cocoa powder or chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.
• Coconut Version – Mix in shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.
• Cornmeal Variation – Some traditional versions use a bit of cornmeal for a more rustic texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds, or enjoy chilled.

FAQs

What is the origin of Hillbilly Pie?

This pie comes from Depression-era and Appalachian cooking, where simple ingredients were used to make satisfying desserts.

Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

Yes! A store-bought crust works just fine for this recipe.

What does this pie taste like?

It has a sweet, custard-like filling with caramelized edges, similar to a chess pie.

Can I make this pie without eggs?

Eggs help bind the filling, but you can try an egg substitute like flax eggs or cornstarch mixed with water.

How do I know when the pie is done?

The center should be set but slightly jiggly, and the edges should be golden brown.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This pie tastes even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead dessert.

What toppings go well with this pie?

Whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce complement it well.

Can I reduce the sugar?

You can slightly reduce the sugar, but it may affect the texture and flavor of the pie.

Is this the same as chess pie?

It’s similar, but chess pie usually includes cornmeal and sometimes vinegar for added texture and flavor balance.

Can I bake this in a different pan?

Yes, you can use a tart pan or even a square baking dish for a bar-style version.

Conclusion

Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man’s Pie) is a simple yet delicious dessert with a rich history. Made with humble ingredients, it delivers a comforting, caramelized sweetness in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or just a cozy treat at home, this old-fashioned pie is sure to bring a taste of nostalgia and warmth to your table.

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