Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable, everyday ingredients.
• Quick and Easy: Prep time is only 10 minutes, and it bakes in just 30 minutes.
• Customizable: Works with any fruit pie filling, allowing you to tailor it to your taste.
• Perfect for Beginners: No fancy techniques or equipment required.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Deliciously satisfying and loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter
• 1 cup self-rising flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup milk
• 1 (12 oz) can of fruit pie filling (e.g., cherry, apple, or peach)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the butter in an 8×8-inch casserole dish and melt it in the oven while preheating.
2. Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine self-rising flour, sugar, and milk. Stir until smooth.
3. Assemble the Pie: Carefully remove the casserole dish from the oven once the butter has melted. Pour the batter evenly over the melted butter—do not stir.
4. Add the Pie Filling: Spoon the fruit pie filling evenly over the batter. As it bakes, the filling will sink slightly, creating a layered dessert.
5. Bake: Return the dish to the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and set.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm, plain, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Fruit Swaps: Try blueberry, blackberry, or pineapple pie filling for unique flavors.
• Spiced Crust: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for added warmth.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free self-rising flour blend.
• Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) on top of the batter before baking.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Hillbilly Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm individual servings in the microwave for about 20–30 seconds, or reheat the entire dish in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes.

FAQs

What is Hillbilly Pie?

Hillbilly Pie is a simple dessert made with a buttery crust, a sweet batter, and fruit pie filling. It’s sometimes referred to as Poor Man’s Pie due to its use of inexpensive, common ingredients.

Can I use fresh fruit instead of pie filling?

Yes! Cook the fresh fruit with sugar and a bit of cornstarch beforehand to mimic the texture of pie filling.

Do I need to stir the batter and butter together?

No. Pour the batter over the melted butter and let it sit. This technique creates the unique layered texture of the pie.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes. Hillbilly Pie can be baked a day in advance and reheated before serving.

What can I serve with Hillbilly Pie?

Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce are excellent pairings.

Is it possible to double the recipe?

Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch baking dish and adjust the bake time slightly, checking for doneness.

What if I don’t have self-rising flour?

Substitute with 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1½ teaspoons baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, but the flavor will differ slightly. Butter is recommended for its rich taste.

Why did my pie turn out soggy?

Ensure your oven is fully preheated, and bake until the crust is golden and set. Avoid underbaking.

Can I freeze Hillbilly Pie?

While freezing is not ideal, you can freeze the baked pie for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

Conclusion

Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man’s Pie) is proof that simplicity can be delicious. With its buttery crust and gooey fruit center, this dessert is a true comfort classic. Perfect for busy days or special occasions, it’s a versatile treat that can be customized to suit your tastes. Serve it warm with ice cream for an unforgettable dessert experience.