One of my all-time favorites has to be this brown sugar chess pie recipe. It’s simple, sweet, and ridiculously satisfying. I grew up with this pie on every holiday table.
Now, I make it whenever I want something easy but indulgent. The filling comes together in minutes. The flavor? Buttery, caramel-like, and deeply nostalgic. I usually serve it slightly warm with a dollop of whipped cream.
Sometimes I eat it cold straight from the fridge. No shame here. This pie never lasts long in my kitchen. If you love old-fashioned desserts like I do, this one’s for you.
Can You Eat This Recipe Every Day?
While the brown sugar chess pie recipe is undeniably delicious, it’s best enjoyed in moderation. This pie is rich in sugar, butter, and eggs, which means it’s high in calories, fats, and sugars.
Eating it every day could lead to an excess of calories and sugar in your diet, which may affect your overall health. It’s important to balance indulgent treats like this with a well-rounded diet full of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
I always recommend enjoying this pie on special occasions or as a treat every now and then. A slice here and there is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without overdoing it. Remember, moderation is key!
How To Prepare brown sugar chess pie recipe?
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Course: Dessert
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Southern American
Yield: 8 slices
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch pie pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 ¾ cups packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornmeal (fine grind)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
I always start by preheating my oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s ready once I finish mixing the filling.
2. Prepare the Pie Crust
I roll out my pie dough and gently fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. I crimp the edges for a pretty finish and pop it into the fridge to chill while I make the filling.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, I whisk together the brown sugar, flour, cornmeal, and salt until well combined.
4. Add the Wet Ingredients
I whisk in the melted butter, followed by the eggs, one at a time. I make sure each egg is fully mixed before adding the next. Then I stir in the milk and vanilla extract until the filling looks smooth and glossy.
5. Fill the Crust
I pour the filling into the chilled pie crust, smoothing it out gently with a spatula.
6. Bake the Pie
I bake the pie for 45 to 50 minutes, checking around the 40-minute mark. The center should puff up a little and have a slight jiggle, but the edges should be set.
7. Cool and Serve
I transfer the pie to a cooling rack and let it cool completely. This part tests my patience, but it’s worth it. The pie sets up beautifully once it cools.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Sugar: 44g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 190mg
Serving Suggestions
I like to serve my brown sugar chess pie recipe slightly warm with a dollop of whipped cream. Sometimes, I sprinkle a little sea salt on top for a sweet-salty bite.
If I’m feeling extra indulgent, I add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. Fresh berries also add a nice burst of brightness against the rich filling.
Tips and Variations
- Don’t overbake: I watch the pie closely after 40 minutes. Overbaking can cause the filling to crack.
- Try dark brown sugar: For a deeper molasses flavor, I sometimes swap in dark brown sugar.
- Add a splash of bourbon: About a tablespoon adds a warm, boozy twist that pairs beautifully with the brown sugar.
- Use a homemade crust: I find that homemade pie crust gives the pie a flakier, richer base.
Top 7 Healthy Nutrition Benefits
1. Eggs Provide High-Quality Protein
Eggs are packed with essential amino acids, offering a high-quality protein source. Protein is vital for muscle repair, immune function, and overall growth.
2. Butter for Healthy Fats
While it’s important to enjoy butter in moderation, it provides healthy fats that support brain function, energy, and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.
3. Brown Sugar Contains Trace Minerals
Brown sugar contains small amounts of minerals like calcium, potassium, and iron. Though it’s still a sweetener, these trace minerals are beneficial to overall health.
4. Milk Offers Calcium for Strong Bones
Whole milk is an excellent source of calcium, which is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also supports nerve function and muscle contractions.
5. Flour Provides Carbohydrates for Energy
All-purpose flour offers carbohydrates, the body’s primary energy source. It helps fuel daily activities and keeps blood sugar levels stable.
6. Cornmeal Adds Fiber
Cornmeal adds a bit of fiber to the pie. Fiber is crucial for digestion, helping to keep the digestive system regular and supporting overall gut health.
7. Vanilla Extract Has Antioxidant Properties
Vanilla extract contains small amounts of antioxidants that help fight oxidative stress in the body. Antioxidants play a role in protecting cells from damage and supporting the immune system.
Note
I always recommend letting the pie cool fully before slicing. The filling continues to set as it cools, which gives it that perfect, custard-like texture. If I try to cut it too soon, the filling can run.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this brown sugar chess pie recipe is a true gem. It’s simple to make, yet delivers a deeply satisfying flavor with every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or enjoying it as an everyday treat, this pie is sure to become a favorite.
I love how it combines the sweetness of brown sugar with a smooth, buttery filling that’s impossible to resist. Every time I bake it, I’m reminded of the joy that simple, homemade desserts can bring.
I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy it as much as I do. Trust me, it’ll quickly become a go-to dessert in your kitchen!