Chess pie

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Chess pie is a traditional Southern U.S. dessert that has a simple filling of eggs, sugar, butter, and a small amount of flour. Some recipes also include cornmeal while others are made with vinegar. Flavorings, such as vanilla, lemon juice, or chocolate are also often added. The ingredients are mixed together and then poured into a pie crust, which is then baked.

History[edit | edit source]

The origins of the name chess pie are uncertain, but there are a number of theories. Some suggest that it is named after the town of Chester, England, while others believe it is so named because it was often stored in a chest, or because the word is a corruption of "cheese pie", despite the fact that it contains no cheese.

Variations[edit | edit source]

There are many variations of chess pie. Lemon Chess Pie is one of the most common, and includes lemon juice for flavoring. Chocolate Chess Pie is another popular variation, and includes cocoa or melted chocolate. Some variations include Cornmeal in the filling, which gives the pie a unique texture.

Preparation[edit | edit source]

To prepare a chess pie, the sugar, butter, and eggs are first creamed together. The flour (and cornmeal, if using) are then added, followed by the flavorings. This mixture is then poured into a pie crust and baked until set. The pie is often served at room temperature or chilled.

Cultural Significance[edit | edit source]

Chess pie is a staple dessert in the Southern United States, particularly in Tennessee and Virginia. It is often served at holidays and other special occasions. Despite its simplicity, it is considered a classic of Southern cuisine.


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