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If you’ve ever wanted a dessert that tastes like pure Southern comfort, this Old-Fashioned Chess Pie is it.

With a buttery, flaky crust and a rich, custardy filling that’s sweet, creamy, and kissed with a hint of cornmeal, it’s the kind of pie your grandma probably made on Sunday afternoons. It’s simple, nostalgic, and absolutely delicious.

For more holiday inspiration, check out these Southern Thanksgiving Recipes.

What Is Chess Pie?

Chess Pie is a classic Southern dessert that dates back to the 18th century. The story goes that when someone once asked what kind of pie it was, the cook replied, “It’s jes’ pie.” Over time, that became “chess pie.”

It’s made from basic pantry staples — butter, sugar, eggs, and a bit of cornmeal — but when baked together, they create a golden, custard-like filling that’s almost caramelized around the edges. Think of it as the perfect cross between a sugar pie and a custard pie.

🧈 Ingredients

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)- you can find my homemade pie crust recipe here
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornmeal
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup melted butter
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar (or lemon juice)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornmeal, flour, and salt.
3. Add the melted butter, milk, vinegar, and vanilla. Stir until smooth.
4. Whisk in the eggs one at a time until the mixture is well blended and creamy.
5. Pour the filling into your unbaked pie crust. I like using pretty fluted pie plates like this one.
6. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is just set (it should have a little jiggle).
7. Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing.

🍯 Tips for the Best Chess Pie

• Use room-temperature eggs. They blend better and help the pie bake evenly.
• Check for doneness. The pie will puff up as it bakes and settle as it cools — that’s perfectly normal!
• Add a twist. You can stir in a tablespoon of cocoa powder for chocolate chess pie or a splash of bourbon for a richer flavor.

🥄 Serving Suggestions

Serve your chess pie at room temperature or chilled with a dollop of whipped cream. It pairs beautifully with coffee or sweet tea — and it’s even better the next day once the flavors settle.

This simple pie reminds us that some recipes don’t need fancy ingredients to shine. One bite, and you’ll understand why this old-fashioned dessert has stood the test of time.

Check out these other amazing pie recipes:

• Coconut Cream Pie
• Classic Apple Pie
• Frozen Strawberry Cream Pie