Description
Hillbilly Pie is a classic Southern dessert featuring a rich, creamy custard filling baked inside a golden pre-made pie crust. This easy-to-make pie blends the sweetness of brown and white sugar with the smooth texture of a custard made from whole milk, egg yolks, and butter, all enhanced with a hint of vanilla. Perfect for gatherings or a comforting homemade treat.
Ingredients
Scale
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 Blind Bake the Pie Crust: Preheat your 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 to prevent sogginess from the filling.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, thoroughly mix together the brown sugar, white sugar, and cornstarch to create an even base for the custard.
- Add Milk Gradually: Slowly whisk in the whole milk to the sugar and cornstarch mixture, ensuring it is smooth and free of lumps.
- Cook the Custard: Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens to a custard-like consistency, which usually takes several minutes.
- Incorporate Egg Yolks and Flavorings: Remove the saucepan from heat. Whisk in the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and butter until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, enriching the custard.
- Fill and Bake the Pie: Pour the prepared custard filling into the partially baked pie crust. Return the pie to the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
- Cool Before Serving: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely, which helps the custard set fully and enhances the flavor before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Blind baking the crust helps prevent a soggy bottom by pre-cooking it before adding the filling.
- Constant stirring during the custard cooking process is essential to avoid lumps and burning.
- Letting the pie cool completely improves the texture and makes it easier to slice.
- Using pre-made pie crust saves time but homemade crust can be substituted for a more personalized touch.
