Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man’s Pie)
Description: Hillbilly Pie, also known as Poor Man’s Pie, is a delightfully simple and comforting dessert. This easy-to-make pie features a buttery, cake-like base topped with your favorite canned fruit pie filling. Perfect for a quick dessert when you’re short on time but craving something sweet and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup self-rising flour (see notes for substitute)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 (12 oz) can fruit pie filling (cherry, apple, peach, or your favorite)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is important to create a tender and airy base for the pie.
Step 3: Gradually add the self-rising flour, mixing after each addition until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough pie.
Step 4: Slowly pour in the milk, stirring until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared pie dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 6: Spoon the fruit pie filling evenly over the top of the batter. Do not stir the filling into the batter; it should remain on top.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the pie is golden brown and bubbly. The top should be nicely browned and the filling should be bubbling.
Step 8: Let the pie cool slightly before serving. This allows the filling to set up a bit and prevents it from being too runny.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
This Hillbilly Pie is incredibly easy to make with minimal ingredients, perfect for when you need a quick dessert. It’s adaptable – use any canned fruit pie filling you enjoy! The combination of the buttery base and sweet, fruity topping is a classic comfort food that everyone will love. This recipe is also very budget-friendly, making it an excellent choice when you want something delicious without breaking the bank.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance.
- Pair with a warm beverage like coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
Tips:
- If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can substitute with 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder + 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
- Make sure your butter is softened for easy creaming with the sugar.
- Don’t overmix the batter, or the pie will be tough.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
Conclusion:
Hillbilly Pie is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly delicious dessert. This recipe is perfect for beginner bakers or anyone looking for a quick and satisfying treat. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a go-to dessert for any occasion. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic Poor Man’s Pie!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned pie filling?
A1: While this recipe is designed for canned pie filling for convenience, you can use fresh fruit. You’ll need about 2-3 cups of prepared fruit. Cook the fruit with a little sugar and cornstarch until it thickens slightly before adding it to the pie.
Q2: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
A2: Yes, you can make this pie a day ahead of time. Store it covered in the refrigerator and reheat it slightly before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Q3: What kind of pie dish should I use?
A3: A standard 9-inch pie dish works best. You can use a glass, ceramic, or metal pie dish. Be sure to grease it well to prevent the pie from sticking.
Q4: Can I add nuts to this recipe?
A4: Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the batter or sprinkled on top of the fruit filling can add a nice texture and flavor.
Q5: What if my pie is browning too quickly?
A5: If your pie is browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking. This will help prevent the top from burning while allowing the inside to cook through.
