Southern chess pie with its rich, custardy filling made from butter, sugar, and eggs is a beloved family dessert tradition. Simple yet irresistible, this old-fashioned pie has been a fixture in Southern kitchens for generations.
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan and set aside.
Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat, then allow it to cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a silky custard texture.
Stir in the cornmeal, milk, vanilla extract, white vinegar, and salt until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform.
Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, using a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top.
Bake in the center of the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is just set with a gentle jiggle.
Allow the chess pie to cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before slicing to ensure clean cuts and proper texture.