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#### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Crust**:
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in the melted butter until everything is evenly mixed.
– Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan, making sure it is packed evenly and covers the sides of the pan.
– Bake the crust for about 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
2. **Make the Filling**:
– In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, flour (or cornstarch), salt, and cinnamon (if using).
– Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
– Pour the mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust.
3. **Bake the Pie**:
– Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly browned on top. You can check if it’s done by gently shaking the pie — the filling should not jiggle in the center.
– Allow the pie to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours to help the filling set completely.
4. **Serve and Enjoy**:
– Before serving, top the pie with whipped cream, a dusting of cinnamon, or any topping of your choice.
– Slice, serve, and enjoy this comforting, nostalgic dessert!
## Variations of Hillbilly Pie
While the traditional Hillbilly Pie recipe is simple and delicious, there are many ways to customize the pie to fit different tastes and preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
### 1. **Chocolate Hillbilly Pie**
For a more indulgent version, add **cocoa powder** to the filling or layer the bottom of the crust with **chocolate chips** before adding the custard filling. The chocolate adds a rich, decadent layer to the pie, perfect for any chocolate lover.
### 2. **Fruit-Filled Hillbilly Pie**
Incorporate fresh or canned fruit into the filling for a fruity twist on the classic recipe. **Peaches**, **apples**, or **berries** work well, and you can add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor. If using fresh fruit, it’s best to bake the pie with the fruit already mixed into the filling for even flavor distribution.
### 3. **Savory Hillbilly Pie**
For a more savory take, swap the sugar for a pinch of salt and pepper, and use milk and eggs to create a custard-like filling. You can incorporate **cheese**, **ham**, or **bacon** into the filling for a hearty and savory meal, which can easily be served as a breakfast or brunch option.
### 4. **Vegan Hillbilly Pie**
To make this dish vegan, substitute the eggs with **flax eggs** (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water for each egg), and use a plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk. You can also replace the butter with a vegan butter alternative or coconut oil. The filling will be just as creamy and satisfying!
## Why Hillbilly Pie Still Resonates Today
Despite its humble origins, Hillbilly Pie remains a beloved recipe because it represents more than just food — it’s about family, tradition, and resilience. It tells the story of a time when people had to make do with limited resources but still managed to create something wonderful from what they had. In a world of fast food and pre-packaged meals, making a Hillbilly Pie from scratch is a way to connect with the past and appreciate the simple joys of cooking from the heart.
The pie is also a reminder of the power of **creativity in the kitchen**. You don’t need expensive or hard-to-find ingredients to create something delicious. With a few pantry staples, you can create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying, whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a potluck, or looking to try something new.
## Conclusion
**Hillbilly Pie** (Poor Man’s Pie) is a classic example of how necessity and creativity in the kitchen can give birth to a dish that transcends generations. Whether you’re making the traditional version with graham cracker crust and custard filling, or experimenting with new flavors like chocolate or fruit, this pie is a comforting treat that embodies the spirit of homemade, hearty cooking. Simple, inexpensive, and oh-so-delicious, Hillbilly Pie is a reminder that the best meals often come from the heart, and they don’t have to cost a fortune to be incredibly satisfying.
