Hillbilly Pie

Hillbilly Pie, often lovingly dubbed Poor Man’s Pie, takes me back to warm summer evenings spent at my grandmother’s house. I can still picture her bustling around the kitchen, the comforting scent of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the air. She’d whip up this delightful dessert with little more than crescent roll dough and a few pantry staples, and we’d gather around the table, eager to dig in. Each slice was a sweet reminder that you don’t need fancy ingredients to create something magical.

This pie is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy night in. Its simplicity makes it a favorite among kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, so you can have something warm and delicious ready in no time. Trust me, once you try Hillbilly Pie, it’ll become your go-to dessert recipe that everyone will ask for again and again!

Why You’ll Love "Hillbilly Pie"

• Quick prep time: You can have this pie ready in just 35 minutes!
• Minimal ingredients: All you need are simple pantry staples.
• Family-friendly: Kids love helping out and devouring this sweet treat.
• Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to special gatherings.
• Freezer-friendly: You can easily freeze leftovers for a later indulgence.
• Irresistible flavor: The combination of butter, cinnamon, and sugar creates a cozy dessert everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 (8 oz) can crescent roll dough - look for the kind that’s easy to unroll and doesn’t stick!
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted - this adds that rich, buttery flavor that makes it special.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar - regular white sugar works perfectly here.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon - for that warm, cozy aroma that fills the kitchen.
• ¼ cup powdered sugar - this will sweeten our drizzle on top.
• 1 tablespoon milk - any kind will do; I usually use whole milk for a creamier drizzle.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract - because who doesn’t love a hint of vanilla in their desserts?

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. First things first, let’s get that oven preheating! Set it to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and toasty by the time we’re ready to bake.

Prepare the Dough

1. Grab your can of crescent roll dough and carefully unroll it. It can be a little tricky, but just take your time!
2. Now, press the dough into a greased baking dish. Make sure to cover the bottom and push it up the sides a little for that perfect pie crust look.

Make the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. This is where the magic starts to happen!
2. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined. You want that buttery, sugary mixture to be nice and smooth.

Spread the Mixture

1. Now take your delicious butter mixture and spread it evenly over the crescent roll dough. Don’t be shy; make sure to get every corner covered!

Bake the Pie

1. Time to pop that pie into the oven! Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s golden brown and heavenly.
2. Keep an eye on it towards the end, as ovens can vary. You want it looking beautifully golden, but not burnt!

Cool and Drizzle

1. Once baked, let your Hillbilly Pie cool slightly on a wire rack. This will help set it a bit, making it easier to slice.
2. While it’s cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until you have a smooth drizzle.
3. Once the pie is ready, drizzle that sweet icing over the top and get ready to serve. It’s going to be hard to resist!

Variations

• Add chopped apples or pears for a fruity twist.
• Try using almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty flavor.
• Substitute the crescent roll dough with gluten-free dough for a gluten-free version.
• Incorporate walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper caramel taste.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve Hillbilly Pie warm or at room temperature. It’s delightful on its own, but you can also top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds a lovely finishing touch!

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for up to a month, just let them thaw before enjoying!

Helpful Notes

• For a richer flavor, use brown butter instead of melted butter.
• You can substitute coconut milk for a dairy-free drizzle.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth.
• Consider using dairy-free crescent roll dough for a vegan option.
• Feel free to sprinkle some chocolate chips into the mixture for a decadent twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Hillbilly Pie?

Yes, you can freeze Hillbilly Pie! Just slice it into pieces, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. It should keep well in the freezer for up to a month. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or warm it up in the oven.

What can I use instead of crescent roll dough?

If you don't have crescent roll dough on hand, you can use puff pastry or even a homemade pie crust as a substitute. Just be sure to adjust baking times slightly, as they may vary depending on the dough you choose.

How do I store leftovers?

To store any leftover Hillbilly Pie, let it cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to a week. If you prefer, you can also freeze it for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, my friends! Hillbilly Pie, or Poor Man's Pie, is a delightful dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. I encourage you to give this recipe a try — it’s perfect for those moments when you crave something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Remember, cooking is all about joy and sharing, so gather your loved ones, whip up this cozy pie, and create wonderful memories together. I promise, once you taste it, you’ll be back for seconds, and maybe even thirds!

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