PUMPKIN CHESS PIE....A SOUTHERN TREASURE

At the mere mention of southern cooking, people perk up with interest! The reaction is one of excitement, as we anticipate mouthwatering food! They know it’s going to be really, really good and will rarely disappoint. Wonder what makes our cooking so good?

 

The first thought that comes to mind is that food in the south is a revered thing. It welcomes people. Southerners always refer to their family and extended family as “my people!” You will often hear, “Are y’all expecting “your people” for the holidays?” We celebrate occasions. Not only holidays, birthdays and anniversaries, but new jobs, a new car, a new home, a new beginning at college and yes, even funerals! They tend to be grand affairs and the southern flavor of our food will beckon you to sit down, get comfortable and socialize!

 

There is another ingredient that plays a significant role in southern cooking and that is pride! You bring out the old treasured recipes which had been lovingly prepared by your grandmothers and mother and present them at every occasion, knowing that family and friends will want to eat the last bite, ending the meal with our custom comment……”Simply Divine!”

Now my darlings, if you have gathered your ideas for the Thanksgiving dinner, you will want to include this Pumpkin Chess Pie on your dessert sideboard, This "simply divine" pie recipe comes from the Derby City Café which is located in an antique mall in Buechel, Kentucky and was published in the Fort Worth Star Telegram in November, 2005. It is one of my most treasured holiday recipes!

 

 

PUMPKIN CHESS PIE

1 (9 -10 inch) unbaked pie shells

1 (15 ounce) cans pumpkin

2 cups sugar

1/2 cup butter, softened 

3 eggs

1/2 cup half-and-half

1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

3/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

 

Heat oven to 350 degrees.

Beat pumpkin, sugar and butter in a large bowl at medium speed until smooth, about 5 minutes Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Add remaining ingredients and beat until everything is well blended. Pour into pie shell.

Bake for 1 hour 10 min., or until center is almost set. Cool completely before chilling or eating! Enjoy!