Indulgent Southern Brown Sugar Pie: A Sweet Slice of Southern Comfort
In the realm of Southern desserts, few treats rival the rich and decadent delight of Brown Sugar Pie. This timeless classic is beloved for its velvety texture, deep caramel flavor, and comforting sweetness. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps to create your own slice of Southern indulgence, perfect for any occasion that calls for a touch of sweetness and nostalgia.
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked pie crust
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 6 tablespoons flour
- A pinch of salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1.5 cups evaporated milk
- Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the unbaked pie crust in a pie dish, gently pressing it into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges decoratively. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and salt. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the melted butter mixture over the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the evaporated milk to the mixture, stirring until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
- Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely before serving.
- If desired, dust the top of the pie with powdered sugar for a decorative finish.
Cook Notes and Variations
- For added flavor, consider incorporating a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling mixture.
- If you prefer a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top of the pie before baking.
- To enhance the caramel flavor, you can substitute dark brown sugar for all or part of the brown sugar called for in the recipe.
- For a hint of citrus brightness, add a teaspoon of freshly grated orange or lemon zest to the filling mixture.
Keto and Low Carb Versions
For those seeking a keto or low carb alternative to traditional Brown Sugar Pie, here are some adjustments you can make:
- Replace the brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Be sure to adjust the amount to taste, as these sweeteners can be more potent than brown sugar.
- Use a low carb almond flour or coconut flour crust in place of the traditional pie crust. You can find many recipes online for keto-friendly pie crusts.
- Substitute heavy cream or a combination of heavy cream and unsweetened almond milk for the evaporated milk to reduce the carb content.
- Increase the amount of butter slightly to compensate for the reduced moisture from using a lower carb milk alternative.
Southern Brown Sugar Pie is a beloved dessert that embodies the essence of Southern hospitality and culinary tradition. With its rich caramel flavor, velvety texture, and buttery crust, it’s no wonder this indulgent treat has stood the test of time. Whether enjoyed on a special occasion or simply as a sweet ending to a meal, this pie is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who taste it. So roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor a slice of Southern comfort like no other.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use a store-bought pie crust instead of making one from scratch? Absolutely! While homemade pie crusts have a special charm, store-bought crusts can be a convenient alternative. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the package for blind baking or pre-baking the crust before adding the filling.
- How do I know when the pie is done baking? The pie is done when the filling is set and no longer jiggles when gently shaken. You can also insert a toothpick into the center of the pie – if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the pie is ready to be removed from the oven.
- Can I make this pie in advance? Yes, you can prepare the pie ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days before serving. Simply allow it to come to room temperature before serving or reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds.
- What should I serve with Brown Sugar Pie? This pie pairs wonderfully with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also enjoy it on its own or with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Can I freeze leftover pie slices? Yes, you can freeze leftover pie slices for up to 1-2 months. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight before reheating or serving.
