Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man’s Pie) – Classic Old-Fashioned Comfort Dessert

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Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man’s Pie) – Classic Old-Fashioned Comfort Dessert

Hillbilly Pie, also known as Poor Man’s Pie, is a simple, custard-style dessert that comes from times when ingredients were few but creativity was rich. It’s creamy, lightly caramelized on top, and incredibly comforting. Think of it as a cross between a sugar custard and a chess pie, made with pantry staples and baked in a flaky crust.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt until evenly combined.
  • This step is important to prevent lumps in the custard.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

  • Add the eggs and whisk until smooth.
  • Slowly whisk in the melted butter.
  • Add the milk and vanilla extract and mix until fully combined and silky.

Step 4: Fill the Crust

  • Pour the mixture into the unbaked pie crust.
  • If desired, lightly sprinkle nutmeg or cinnamon over the top for warmth and aroma.

Step 5: Bake

  • Bake for 45–55 minutes.
  • The pie is done when the center is set but still slightly jiggles when gently shaken.
  • The top should be golden with light caramelized spots.

Step 6: Cool

  • Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 1 hour.
  • The pie will continue to firm up as it cools.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm for a soft, custardy texture.
  • Serve chilled for clean slices and a firmer bite.
  • Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
  • Dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving.

Texture & Flavor Notes

  • Creamy, smooth custard center
  • Lightly crisp top layer
  • Sweet but not overwhelming
  • Rich buttery flavor with simple vanilla warmth

Tips for Best Results

  • Use whole milk for the creamiest texture.
  • Let melted butter cool slightly so it doesn’t scramble the eggs.
  • Place the pie dish on a baking sheet to catch any spills.
  • If the crust browns too fast, cover edges with foil halfway through baking.
  • For extra depth, add a pinch of nutmeg directly into the batter.

Variations

  • Coconut Hillbilly Pie: Stir in ½ cup shredded coconut
  • Brown Sugar Version: Replace half the sugar with light brown sugar
  • Old-Fashioned Style: Add 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar for a tangy note
  • Lemon Twist: Add 1 tablespoon lemon juice and 1 teaspoon zest

Storage

  • Refrigerate leftovers, covered, for up to 4 days.
  • Serve cold or gently reheat slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds.

Why This Pie Is Loved

  • Uses inexpensive pantry ingredients
  • No special equipment required
  • Foolproof and beginner-friendly
  • A nostalgic dessert passed down through generations

Final Thoughts

Hillbilly Pie proves that you don’t need fancy ingredients to make something truly special. With its creamy filling, golden top, and humble roots, this Poor Man’s Pie is a reminder that simple food often brings the greatest comfort. Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or anytime you crave an old-fashioned homemade dessert.

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