chess pie

English

a slice of a coconut chess pie

Etymology

Uncertain; most likely from cheese pie; early versions were similar in texture to British lemon curd pies or cheesecakes, and earlier "cheesecakes" often lacked cheese, instead resembling modern chess pies or chess cakes. Other theories include:

• from a Southern pronunciation of (it's) jes' pie, as it contrasts with flavored pies like pecan, cherry, chocolate, etc.
• from chest pie, as the high sugar content means it can be stored in a "pie chest" (pie safe) rather than needing refrigeration.
• from some association with the game of chess.
• from Chester, England.

Pronunciation

• (Received Pronunciation) IPA^(key): /ˈt͡ʃɛs ˌpaɪ/
• (General American) IPA^(key): /ˈt͡ʃɛs ˌpaɪ/

• Audio (US):

  (file)

Noun

chess pie (countable and uncountable, plural chess pies)

1. (Southern US, Midland US) A pie made with eggs, sugar, butter, vanilla, and cornmeal.

Related terms

• chess cake, chess tart

See also

• vinegar pie
• sugar pie