If you’re craving a nostalgic dessert that feels like a warm hug from the past, then this Hillbilly Pie Recipe is just what you need. It’s a luscious, custard-filled pie with a rich, buttery crust and just the right touch of sweetness from brown and white sugars. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends, this pie delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite, showcasing the simple ingredients that truly shine when combined with love and care.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Hillbilly Pie Recipe keeps things wonderfully straightforward with pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create that perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and buttery. Each component plays a key role in the flavor and texture, ensuring every slice is pure delight.
- 1 pre-made pie crust: A convenient base that provides a flaky, golden foundation for your pie filling.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds deep, caramel notes that enrich the custard’s flavor.
- 1/4 cup white sugar: Offers just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Acts as a gentle thickener to give the custard that perfect, smooth texture.
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk: Creates the creamy body of the filling, making each bite silky luscious.
- 3 large egg yolks: Add richness and help set the custard to a beautiful, sliceable consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a warm, fragrant aroma that brightens the entire pie.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Finishes the custard with a velvety, indulgent touch.
How to Make Hillbilly Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gently place your pre-made pie crust into a pie dish and bake it for about 10 minutes until it turns a lovely golden color. This step ensures your crust stays crisp and holds up perfectly against the custard filling.
Step 2: Mix Sugar and Cornstarch
While the crust is baking, grab a saucepan and combine the brown sugar, white sugar, and cornstarch. This trio is the secret to that sweet and thick filling everyone will love.
Step 3: Add the Milk Gradually
Slowly whisk in the whole milk, ensuring the mixture is smooth and lump-free. This helps create a silky custard base that thickens beautifully when heated.
Step 4: Cook the Custard Base
Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly. Watch as the mixture thickens into a rich custard-like consistency—this usually takes a few minutes but is totally worth your attention.
Step 5: Incorporate Egg Yolks, Vanilla, and Butter
Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly whisk in the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and butter. This step adds richness and a creamy texture that defines the Hillbilly Pie Recipe’s distinctive flavor.
Step 6: Bake the Pie
Pour your luscious filling into the pre-baked crust and slide the pie back into the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the custard is set but still gently jiggles in the center. This ensures a creamy, luscious bite every time.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, let the pie cool completely at room temperature. This step is crucial to let the custard firm up and get ready for slicing and savoring.
How to Serve Hillbilly Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a handful of toasted pecans perfectly complements the rich custard, adding an inviting visual and textural contrast. You can also serve it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for that extra touch of indulgence.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs beautifully with hot coffee or a glass of cold milk, making it an ideal finish to any meal. For a more substantial treat, try serving it alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the richness with light acidity or creamy coolness.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, consider serving slices on vintage dessert plates with edible flowers or fresh mint leaves to brighten up the presentation. You can also create mini Hillbilly Pie servings using small tart pans for an adorable individual dessert option that’s perfect for parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Hillbilly Pie Recipe leftovers are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days while maintaining its creamy texture—perfect for enjoying a second helping without any loss of flavor.
Freezing
While this custard-based pie tastes fresh best, you can freeze it if necessary. Wrap the cooled pie tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge gently before serving.
Reheating
To warm up leftover pie, place individual slices on a plate and let them come to room temperature. You can then heat gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds if desired, but keep in mind the creamy filling is lovely enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade pie crust for this Hillbilly Pie Recipe?
Absolutely! A homemade crust adds a personal touch and can make the pie even more special. Just make sure to blind bake it as directed to prevent sogginess from the custard filling.
Is it okay to substitute milk with cream or a dairy-free alternative?
Whole milk offers the best balance of creaminess without being too heavy, but you can use cream for a richer pie. For dairy-free options, almond or oat milk can work, though the texture might be slightly different.
How do I know when the custard filling is fully cooked?
The filling should thicken as you cook it and jiggle just a little in the center after baking—similar to a traditional custard. It will set more as it cools, so be careful not to overcook and dry it out.
Can I make this pie ahead for a party?
Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just bring it to room temperature before serving, and feel free to add fresh whipped cream or garnishes just before your guests arrive.
What is the best way to slice the pie neatly?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry before each cut. This technique helps create clean slices without dragging the creamy filling.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Hillbilly Pie Recipe that makes it a timeless classic—simple ingredients transforming into an irresistible treat. Whether you’re new to baking pies or an experienced dessert lover, dive in and give this recipe a whirl. Your taste buds will thank you, and you might just find yourself reaching for it time and time again.
Print
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 delightful Southern-inspired dessert featuring a creamy custard filling nestled in a flaky pre-made pie crust. Sweetened with brown and white sugars and flavored with vanilla, this easy-to-make pie is baked to golden perfection and offers a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
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 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. This step ensures a crisp crust for your pie filling.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the brown sugar, white sugar, and cornstarch. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps prevent lumps in the custard.
- Add Milk Gradually: Slowly add the whole milk to the saucepan, whisking continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and fully incorporated.
- Cook the Custard: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly to avoid burning, until it thickens to a custard-like consistency. This should take several minutes and ensures a rich filling.
- Add Egg Yolks and Flavor: Remove the custard from heat. Whisk in the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and butter thoroughly until the filling is smooth and creamy.
- Fill and Bake: Pour the prepared 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 surface is slightly firm to the touch.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely to room temperature before slicing and serving. This resting time helps the custard fully set.
Notes
- Using a pre-made pie crust simplifies the recipe and saves time.
- Whisking continuously during custard cooking is crucial to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
- Allowing the pie to cool fully helps the filling to set properly, making it easier to slice.
- You can garnish with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
