Hillbilly Pie (Poor Man’s Pie)

Whenever I think of Hillbilly Pie, I'm transported back to my childhood kitchen, where the aroma of sweet cinnamon filled the air, and my family would gather around the table, eagerly anticipating dessert. My grandmother used to whip this up on lazy Sunday afternoons, and it always felt like a warm hug in pie form. It's amazing how something so simple can hold so many memories, right? This Poor Man's Pie, as it's affectionately known, is a delightful reminder that comfort food doesn't have to be complicated; it's about the love and laughter shared over a delicious treat.

As the seasons change and the cooler weather rolls in, I find myself craving the warmth of baked goods, and this Hillbilly Pie fits the bill perfectly. It's quick to prepare, making it an ideal dessert for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Whether you're hosting friends or just treating yourself, this pie is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. Let's dive into this delightful recipe and create some memories of our own!

Why You'll Love "Hillbilly Pie"

• Quick prep time of just 15 minutes means you can have dessert on the table in no time.
• Made with minimal ingredients, this recipe is budget-friendly and simple.
• Perfect for families; kids love getting involved in rolling out the dough!
• Freezer-friendly, so you can whip up a batch and save some for later.
• It's a cozy dessert that fills the house with delightful aromas.
• Versatile enough to add your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips!

Ingredients You'll Need

• 1 can (8 oz) of crescent roll dough - look for the refrigerated kind; it rolls out easily and bakes beautifully.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter - make sure it's melted for that rich flavor; you can use margarine in a pinch.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar - this is your sweet base, but feel free to substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon - don't skimp on this; it's what gives the pie that warm, nostalgic taste.
• ¼ cup powdered sugar - this will sweeten your glaze and give it that lovely finish.
• 1 tablespoon milk - any kind works; use almond milk for a dairy-free option.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract - for that extra hint of deliciousness; pure vanilla is best, but imitation will do in a bind.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. This will ensure that your Hillbilly Pie bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown.
3. While the oven is heating up, you can start preparing the dough and filling.

Roll Out the Dough

1. Open your can of crescent roll dough and carefully unroll it onto a baking dish. I like to use a 9x13 inch dish for this.
2. Press the seams together gently to form a single piece of dough, so we have a nice base for our filling.
3. Don't worry if it looks a little rustic; that's part of its charm!

Prepare the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon.
2. Mix everything together until it's well blended; it should be a smooth, sweet mixture.
3. This filling is where the magic happens, so give it a good stir!

Spread the Filling

1. Now, take your lovely cinnamon mixture and spread it evenly over the rolled-out dough.
2. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to make sure every inch is covered; you want every bite to be delicious!
3. Once it's all spread out, you're almost ready to bake!

Bake the Pie

1. Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 20 minutes.
2. Keep an eye on it, and look for that lovely golden brown color on top.
3. When it's done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes; the aroma will be irresistible!

Make the Glaze

1. While the pie is cooling, let's whip up a quick glaze! In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
2. Stir until smooth; it should be pourable but not too runny.
3. Once your pie has cooled for a bit, drizzle this sweet glaze over the top for that finishing touch!

Variations

• Add chopped apples or pears to the filling for a fruity twist.
• Substitute the crescent roll dough with puff pastry for a flakier texture.
• Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Drizzle caramel sauce over the glaze for an indulgent treat.
• For a lighter version, use a sugar substitute and low-fat milk in the glaze.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve your Hillbilly Pie warm or at room temperature, and don't forget to add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side for that extra touch! It's perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices for up to a month; just make sure to wrap them tightly to keep them fresh!

Helpful Notes

• If you don't have unsalted butter, salted will work just fine; just reduce any added salt in your recipe.
• Feel free to swap the powdered sugar with a sugar alternative for a lower-calorie glaze.
• For a nut-free option, simply omit any nuts you might want to add.
• Try adding chocolate chips or raisins to the filling for a sweet surprise.
• This pie can easily be made dairy-free by using coconut oil and non-dairy milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Hillbilly Pie?

Yes, you can freeze Hillbilly Pie! Just wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to a month.

What can I substitute for crescent roll dough?

If you don't have crescent roll dough, you can use puff pastry or homemade pie crust as an alternative. Both will give you a delicious result!

How do I make it dairy-free?

To make Hillbilly Pie dairy-free, substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil and use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk for the glaze.

Can I add fruits to the filling?

Absolutely! Chopped apples, pears, or even berries can be added to the filling for a fruity twist that enhances the flavor of the pie.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, my dear friend! Hillbilly Pie is not just a dessert; it's a little piece of nostalgia and warmth that brings everyone together. I hope you whip up this delightful treat soon and create some sweet memories in your own kitchen. Whether it's a cozy evening at home or a gathering with loved ones, this pie is sure to bring smiles all around. Remember, cooking is all about love, laughter, and a sprinkle of chaos. Enjoy every bite, and don't forget to share it with those you cherish the most!