Classic Southern Lemon Chess Pie

Classic Southern Lemon Chess Pie

When life gives you lemons, make a pie that’s been passed down through generations of Southern kitchens. This Classic Southern Lemon Chess Pie is the kind of dessert that brings back memories of grandma’s table, Sunday suppers, and simple, timeless comfort. With a silky lemon custard filling and a slightly caramelized top, this pie is as beautiful as it is delicious. A flaky crust cradles the sweet-tart filling, while every bite melts in your mouth with hints of citrus, butter, and tradition.

It’s a humble pie—no frills, no fuss—but full of that home-baked charm that never goes out of style. Whether you serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a twist of lemon on top, this pie will steal the spotlight at any meal.

Ingredients

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

• 1½ cups granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon cornmeal

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• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 4 large eggs

• ¼ cup whole milk

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

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• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges as desired. Set aside.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornmeal, flour, and salt until well blended. This dry mix helps give the filling its unique texture and crusty top.

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3. Add Wet Ingredients:
   Add the eggs to the dry mixture and whisk until smooth. Then stir in the milk, melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined and silky.

4. Pour & Bake:
   Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust. Carefully transfer the pie to the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. The pie should have a slight jiggle in the middle when gently shaken.

5. Cool Completely:
   Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cool, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing for the best texture.

6. Serve:
   Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature with whipped cream and a thin lemon wedge for garnish, if desired.

Final Notes

This Lemon Chess Pie is proof that the simplest ingredients often create the most memorable desserts. With its creamy lemon filling and classic Southern roots, it’s a pie that never goes out of style. Perfect for spring brunches, family gatherings, or a weeknight treat when you’re craving something sweet and sunny. Keep leftovers chilled and enjoy within 3–4 days.

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