Southern Pie

Introduction

When I first tried making this Southern Pie, I was a bit skeptical about how such a simple combination of ingredients could create something so delicious. But after the first bite, I was hooked. The flavor is just the right balance of sweet and tangy, with a creamy filling that perfectly complements the flakey crust. The lemon juice gives it a light, refreshing taste while the vanilla and buttermilk add richness. As I served it to my family, the reactions were immediate—everyone loved it! It’s now a dessert that everyone requests, whether it’s for a holiday meal, a family gathering, or just a special treat. What’s even better is that it’s incredibly easy to make, and it’s hard to go wrong with this classic Southern dessert. If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re in for a treat.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the sugar and flour. Add the melted butter and mix well. Beat in the eggs one at a time. Stir in the buttermilk, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until everything is well combined.
3. Pour and Bake: Pour the mixture into the unbaked pie crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the pie is set and lightly golden on top. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
4. Cool: Let the pie cool completely before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to firm up and makes it easier to cut.

Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories per Serving)

• Servings: 8
• Calories per Serving: 300 kcal (approximate)

Nutrition Breakdown per Serving:

• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 35g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve with a Scoop of Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent treat, serve a slice of Southern Pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The creaminess of the ice cream pairs wonderfully with the pie’s richness.
• With Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream can add a light, airy contrast to the creamy pie filling.
• For Special Occasions: This pie is perfect for family gatherings, holiday meals, or anytime you want to impress guests with a delicious and comforting dessert.
• Serve Warm or Chilled: While this pie is delicious when served cold, a warm slice straight from the oven is equally irresistible.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice can lack the fresh, zesty taste that makes this pie stand out.
2. Ensure the Pie Is Set: Be sure to bake the pie long enough so the filling is set. If you’re unsure, insert a knife into the center of the pie; it should come out clean when it’s fully cooked.
3. Chill the Pie: For a firmer texture, chill the pie in the fridge for a couple of hours after it’s cooled to room temperature. This helps the filling set completely and makes for easier slicing.
4. Use a Deep Dish Pie Crust: If you prefer a slightly thicker filling, consider using a deep dish pie crust. This will provide more space for the filling to set and prevent it from overflowing.
5. Make Ahead: This pie can be made ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge for up to 3 days before serving. This also gives the flavors more time to develop!

Recipe Variations

• Coconut Southern Pie: For a tropical twist, add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the filling before baking. The coconut adds texture and a subtle, sweet flavor that complements the pie perfectly.
• Chocolate Southern Pie: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the sugar and flour mixture for a chocolate version of this Southern classic. This variation will have a rich, slightly darker flavor that chocolate lovers will appreciate.
• Berry Southern Pie: Stir in a cup of fresh or frozen berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, to the filling for a fruity addition to the pie. The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness of the pie.
• Orange Southern Pie: Swap the lemon juice for orange juice and zest for a citrusy twist. Orange pairs beautifully with the buttery, creamy filling.
• Nutty Southern Pie: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the filling for extra crunch and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side of Fruit: A light fruit salad with fresh berries or citrus fruits is the perfect accompaniment to this pie, balancing the richness with freshness.
• Coffee Pairing: Pair this pie with a cup of coffee or iced tea for a delicious dessert after dinner or a special brunch.
• Holiday Gatherings: This pie is great for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family holiday meal. Its rich flavor and creamy texture make it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This Southern Pie freezes well. After baking and cooling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To serve, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before slicing.
• Storing Leftovers: Leftover pie can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to consume it within that time to enjoy the full flavor and creamy texture.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
   • Yes, a pre-made pie crust is perfectly fine to use for convenience. Just make sure to choose a high-quality, unbaked crust for best results.
2. Can I use a different type of milk?
   • While buttermilk is preferred for its tanginess, you can substitute it with whole milk or even heavy cream for a richer pie.
3. Can I add more lemon juice?
   • Yes, if you love a tangier flavor, you can add more lemon juice to the filling. Just be careful not to add too much, as it may affect the pie’s texture.
4. How do I know when the pie is done baking?
   • When the pie is done, it should be golden brown on top, and a knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
5. Can I make this pie dairy-free?
   • Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free option and use non-dairy milk such as almond milk. However, the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
6. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
   • Yes! You can prepare and bake the pie a day in advance. Just refrigerate it after it has cooled and slice it when ready to serve.
7. How can I make this pie even sweeter?
   • If you want a sweeter pie, you can increase the amount of sugar slightly, but be mindful of the balance with the lemon juice to maintain the flavor.
8. Can I make a mini version of this pie?
   • Absolutely! You can use tart pans or smaller pie dishes to make individual-sized portions of this Southern Pie.
9. Why does my pie have a slightly soft center?
   • If your pie is slightly soft in the center, it may need more baking time. Make sure the pie is fully set before removing it from the oven.
10. What’s the best way to slice this pie?

• To get clean slices, let the pie cool completely before cutting. Chilling the pie in the fridge also helps create neater slices.

Conclusion

This Southern Pie is a timeless dessert that combines simple ingredients with exceptional flavor. With its creamy, slightly tangy filling and buttery, flaky crust, it’s a dessert that’s sure to impress family and guests alike. Whether you serve it at a holiday gathering, a weekend brunch, or as an after-dinner treat, it’s bound to be a favorite. With its ease of preparation and versatility in flavor, this pie is a recipe you won’t want to lose. Give it a try and savor the Southern charm in every bite!

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