Ultimate Southern Dream Pie
The Ultimate Southern Dream Pie is a creamy, rich, and indulgent dessert featuring a flaky crust and a smooth, custard-like filling made with sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, butter, and vanilla extract. Perfect for family gatherings or casual treats, this classic Southern pie combines comfort and elegance with simple pantry ingredients and versatile customization options.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Contains gluten and dairy; can be adapted for gluten-free and dairy-free
Ingredients
Scale
Pie Crust
- 1 store-bought or homemade flaky pie crust
Filling
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 cup freshly whipped cream
- Optional garnishes: fresh fruit (berries, sliced bananas), toasted pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Prepare the Pie Crust: Begin by pre-baking your pie crust until it’s golden and crisp to create a sturdy base that won’t soak up the filling.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, melted butter, and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth and glossy.
- Bake the Pie: Pour the creamy filling into the pre-baked crust and bake at a moderate temperature (about 350°F / 175°C) until the filling sets with a slight jiggle in the center, approximately 30-35 minutes.
- Cool Thoroughly: Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature before chilling it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to enhance texture and flavor.
- Add Toppings: Top the chilled pie with freshly whipped cream and optional garnishes like toasted nuts or fresh fruit for a beautiful finishing touch.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth mixture without lumps.
- Don’t overbake; the filling should have a gentle wobble in the center when done.
- Chill the pie thoroughly for best creamy and sliceable texture.
- Whip fresh cream just before serving to maintain lightness and prevent weeping.
- Seal the crust edges well to prevent shrinkage and sogginess during baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 pie)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Southern pie, creamy pie, dream pie, custard pie, dessert, sweet pie, holiday dessert, homemade pie
Find it online: https://dishesbylina.com/ultimate-southern-dream-pie/