Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make – Requires just a few basic ingredients and simple steps.
• Budget-friendly – Uses inexpensive pantry staples, making it a great dessert for any occasion.
• Rich and creamy – The custard filling is smooth and delicious with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Classic Southern charm – A nostalgic recipe that brings back the warmth of old-fashioned home cooking.
• Versatile – Can be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled for a refreshing treat.

Ingredients

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

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg or cinnamon (optional, for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan and crimp the edges.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Add the milk, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Stir until smooth and fully combined.
4. Pour the filling into the unbaked pie crust.
5. Sprinkle a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon on top for added flavor, if desired.
6. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden on top. The center should have a slight jiggle but will firm up as it cools.
7. Let the pie cool completely before slicing. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 8 slices
• Calories: 320 kcal per slice

Variations

• Coconut Hillbilly Pie – Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the custard filling for a tropical twist.
• Lemon Twist – Stir in 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for a subtle citrus flavor.
• Chocolate Version – Mix in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder for a chocolate custard filling.
• Spiced Version – Add a pinch of nutmeg, cinnamon, or allspice to enhance the flavor.
• Buttermilk Substitute – Swap the whole milk for buttermilk to give the pie a slight tangy richness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: If you prefer warm pie, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
• Freezing: Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

FAQs

What is Hillbilly Pie?

Hillbilly Pie, also known as Poor Man’s Pie, is a simple custard-based pie made with sugar, flour, eggs, milk, and butter. It’s a classic Southern dessert that is easy and affordable.

Can I use a pre-baked pie crust?

No, the crust should be unbaked when adding the filling. The custard bakes along with the crust for the perfect texture.

How do I know when the pie is done baking?

The pie is done when the top is golden, and the center has a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to serve.

What does Hillbilly Pie taste like?

It has a rich, custard-like texture with a sweet, buttery flavor and a hint of vanilla.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar slightly, but it may alter the texture and sweetness of the pie.

What’s the best way to serve this pie?

It can be served at room temperature or chilled, with or without whipped cream.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, but butter provides the best flavor and texture.

What’s the best milk to use?

Whole milk works best, but you can also use half-and-half for a richer pie.

Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Yes! Chopped pecans or walnuts can be sprinkled on top for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man’s Pie) is a classic, comforting dessert that proves deliciousness doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With its creamy custard filling and simple ingredients, this pie is perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it warm, chilled, or with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Give this old-fashioned recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Southern tradition.

Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man’s Pie) Recipe

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• Author: Isabella
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 8 slices
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Hillbilly Pie, also known as Poor Man’s Pie, is a classic Southern dessert made with simple pantry ingredients like sugar, eggs, milk, and butter. This budget-friendly custard pie is rich, creamy, and has a golden-brown top that adds to its comforting homemade charm. Perfect for any occasion, this easy-to-make pie brings nostalgia and warmth to every bite.

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Ingredients

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg or cinnamon (optional, for topping)

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Instructions

• Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan and crimp the edges.
• Mix Dry Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt.
• Combine Wet Ingredients – Add the milk, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Stir until smooth and fully combined.
• Fill the Pie Crust – Pour the mixture into the unbaked pie crust.
• Add Topping (Optional) – Sprinkle a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon on top for extra flavor.
• Bake – Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center has a slight jiggle.
• Cool & Serve – Let the pie cool completely before slicing. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Notes

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Texture Tip: The center should jiggle slightly when removed from the oven, but it will firm up as it cools.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern, American