Mmmm, the smell of cinnamon fills the air. It’s a classic scent that encompasses so many emotions and traditions. Cinnamon pie is a classic staple dessert in Southern culture, with recipes passed down through generations. But what exactly is Southern Cinnamon Pie? Let’s explore its history and find out how this delicious treat came to be.
History of Southern Cinnamon Pie
Southern Cinnamon Pie has been a beloved part of Southern cuisine for many generations. It is believed to have originated in the early 1800s when the first settlers began arriving in the South. The pie was an adaptation of traditional English recipes and was popular among both wealthy and poor families. In those days, cinnamon was a rare and quite expensive spice but it quickly became a favorite for bakers who wanted to add something special to their pies.
The pies were made with simple ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, milk, and eggs as well as spices like nutmeg and cinnamon which gave the pies their distinctive flavor.
Today, Southern Cinnamon Pies are still just as popular as they ever were and can be found in most southern bakeries and homes alike. This classic sweet treat is perfect for any occasion!
What is a Cinnamon Pie?
A Cinnamon Pie is a classic Southern dessert that combines the flavors of cinnamon, cream cheese, and half-and-half for a delicious custard-like texture. This pie originated in the early 1800s in the South as an adaptation of traditional English recipes. The dish has remained popular among Southerners for generations due to its simple ingredients and flavor profile.
To make our classic cinnamon pie, you’ll need flour, sugar, butter, milk, eggs, spices such as nutmeg and cinnamon, and other optional ingredients like dried fruits or nuts. Once mixed together into a dough crust, it is then filled with the creamy custard mixture made with cream cheese and half-and-half before being baked in the oven. The result is a wonderfully fragrant pie that tastes best served at room temperature or chilled from the refrigerator – topped with a dollop of fresh whipped cream!
Southern Cinnamon Pie
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked pie crust 9 inch
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 8oz package cream cheese, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups half and half cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cream together cream cheese and both sugars, making sure to blend well. Scrape off sides, continue blending until thoroughly mixed.
- Add in eggs, cinnamon, vanilla and flour. Mix for a couple minutes on medium speed until perfectly smooth, making sure to scrape sides. Add half and half and blend for another minute.
- Pour filling into the pie crust and bake for 40 to 45 minutes.
- Pie is best served chilled, so prepare this a day or two in advance! Serve with whipped cream or ice cream. Enjoy!