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Ultimate Southern Dream Pie

Ultimate Southern Dream Pie
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The Ultimate Southern Dream Pie is a rich and creamy custard pie featuring a flaky crust and a light whipped cream or meringue topping. This classic Southern dessert combines smooth, indulgent custard with a golden base and a fluffy finish, perfect for any occasion and customizable to your taste preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Pie Crust

  • 1 pre-made or homemade flaky pie crust (9-inch)

Custard Filling

  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings

  • 1 cup freshly whipped cream
  • Optional: 1/4 cup sugar for meringue topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pie Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden and flaky. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
  2. Make the Custard Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy. In a saucepan, warm the whole milk and heavy cream over medium heat until just simmering. Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the yolk mixture while whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from cooking prematurely. Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously until the custard thickens to a creamy pudding consistency, about 5-8 minutes.
  3. Add Butter and Vanilla: Remove the custard from heat and immediately stir in the butter and vanilla extract. Mix until the butter is fully melted and incorporated. Allow the custard to cool slightly before pouring it into the cooled baked pie crust.
  4. Chill the Pie: Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the filling to fully set and flavors to meld.
  5. Top with Whipped Cream or Meringue: Before serving, spread an even layer of freshly whipped cream over the set custard pie. Alternatively, prepare and top with light meringue sweetened with sugar, then toast lightly with a kitchen torch or under the broiler for a golden finish.

Notes

  • Use fresh eggs for the best texture and flavor in the custard.
  • Cook custard slowly on low heat to avoid lumps or scrambling the eggs.
  • Ensure the crust is fully cooled before adding custard to prevent melting.
  • Refrigerate the pie well to help it set properly and improve flavor.
  • Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard for warm flavor notes.

Nutrition

Keywords: southern pie, custard pie, dream pie, creamy dessert, homemade pie, comfort food, classic southern dessert

Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/ultimate-southern-dream-pie/