World Flavors Cookbook

Chess Pie

A simple Southern custard pie of sugar, butter, eggs, and cornmeal with a vinegar tang — the old-fashioned dessert with a mysterious name and a devoted following.

Cuisine: United States

Ingredients

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
• 1.5 cups sugar
• 3 eggs
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 tbsp cornmeal
• 1 tbsp white vinegar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350F.
2. Whisk sugar, eggs, melted butter, cornmeal, vinegar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
3. Pour into unbaked pie crust.
4. Bake 40-45 minutes until set — the top should be golden and crackled.
5. The center will jiggle slightly but sets as it cools.
6. Cool completely before slicing.