Description
Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man’s Pie)
This Hillbilly Pie is a classic Southern dessert that requires just a few simple ingredients but delivers big flavor!
Ingredients:
1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter
1 cup self-rising flour
1 cup sugar
1 cup milk
1 (12 oz) can fruit pie filling of choice
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F and melt butter in an 8×8-inch baking dish.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and milk.
Pour batter into the dish over the melted butter without stirring.
Spoon fruit pie filling evenly over the top.
Bake for 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or whipped cream.
Make It Special: Add a dash of nutmeg or cinnamon for extra warmth!
#ClassicBaking #SimpleButDelicious
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Hillbilly Pie every time. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place one stick of unsalted butter into an 8×8-inch baking dish and set it in the preheating oven to melt, which should take about 5 minutes. While the butter melts, whisk together one cup each of self-rising flour, sugar, and milk in a medium bowl until you have a smooth, lump-free batter. Once the butter is fully melted and bubbling slightly, carefully remove the hot dish from the oven. Immediately pour the batter directly over the melted butter. Do not stir—this is crucial for creating the distinct layers. Next, gently spoon your chosen 12-ounce can of fruit pie filling evenly over the top of the batter. Finally, bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is a deep golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
This humble pie shines with simple, comforting accompaniments. Serve it warm, directly from the baking dish. A classic dusting of powdered sugar adds a sweet finish, while a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a delightful creamy contrast. For a decadent twist, drizzle with caramel sauce or a splash of bourbon. It’s perfect as a standalone dessert with coffee or as a sweet ending to a hearty Southern meal.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Melt butter in a baking dish. Mix flour, sugar, and milk into a batter. Pour batter over butter (do not stir). Top with pie filling. Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until golden. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of self-rising? Yes, but you must add leavening. For every cup of all-purpose flour, mix in 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
What fruit pie fillings work best? Cherry, peach, apple, and blueberry are all excellent choices. For a tart contrast, try blackberry or raspberry.
Can I make this pie ahead of time? It is best served fresh and warm. You can prepare the batter ahead and assemble just before baking, but the texture is optimal straight from the oven.
Why shouldn’t I stir the butter and batter? Not stirring allows the butter to create a rich, crispy, almost fried crust on the bottom and edges as it bakes, which is a signature of the dessert.
Can I double the recipe? Absolutely. Double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch dish. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results. First, do not overmix the batter; just whisk until combined to keep the texture tender. Second, never stir the melted butter and batter together, as this ruins the layered structure. Third, ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking to achieve proper rise and browning. Finally, do not use cold milk, as it can re-solidify the melted butter when combined; room temperature ingredients are ideal.
Conclusion
Hillbilly Pie is a testament to the magic of simple, pantry-staple baking. With its crispy buttery base, soft cake-like middle, and sweet fruit topping, it delivers incredible comfort and flavor with minimal effort. This versatile recipe invites customization with different spices and fruits, making it a timeless dessert perfect for any occasion. Give this classic a try and taste a piece of Southern tradition.
