Lemon Chess Pie

This Lemon Chess Pie is a classic Southern dessert that’s wonderfully sweet, tangy, and delightfully simple. With its buttery, flaky crust and rich, custardy lemon filling, this pie is perfect for spring and summer gatherings or anytime you crave a slice of sunshine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pie is the ultimate combination of easy and impressive. It uses basic pantry ingredients, comes together quickly, and delivers a luscious, old-fashioned flavor that’s bright and satisfying. The smooth, custardy texture with a crackly top is simply irresistible. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a timeless treat everyone will love.

Ingredients

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

• Unbaked pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
• Granulated sugar
• Cornmeal
• All-purpose flour
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Eggs
• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Whole milk or evaporated milk
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Crimp edges as desired.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornmeal, flour, and salt.
4. Add melted butter and mix until combined.
5. Whisk in eggs one at a time until smooth.
6. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, milk, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
7. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.
9. Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 8 slices. Total time is about 1 hour plus cooling time.

Variations

• Add a dusting of powdered sugar on top for extra sweetness.
• Use Meyer lemons for a slightly sweeter, floral flavor.
• Top each slice with fresh whipped cream or a handful of fresh berries.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, spiced note.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Lemon Chess Pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Serve cold or bring to room temperature before serving. This pie does not need reheating but can be gently warmed in the oven at 300°F (150°C) if you prefer.

FAQs

What is a chess pie?

Chess pie is a classic Southern custard pie made with simple ingredients like eggs, sugar, butter, and a bit of cornmeal for texture.

Why is it called chess pie?

The exact origin is unclear, but some say it comes from “just pie” with a Southern accent, or from storing pies in a pie chest.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes! Lemon Chess Pie tastes great when made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.

Can I freeze Lemon Chess Pie?

Yes. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.

Why do I need cornmeal?

Cornmeal adds a slight texture and helps the custard set properly—it’s a signature part of chess pie.

My pie cracked on top. Is that normal?

Yes! The thin, crackly top is a classic feature of chess pies.

Do I need to blind bake the crust?

No blind baking is needed for this recipe.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free pie crust and substitute gluten-free flour.

How do I know when the pie is done?

The center should be mostly set but may jiggle slightly; it will firm up as it cools.

Conclusion

Lemon Chess Pie is a timeless dessert that brings bright, nostalgic flavor to your table with minimal effort. With its creamy, tangy filling and sweet, crackly top, it’s sure to become a favorite for family gatherings, holidays, or anytime you want a taste of Southern comfort.

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