Instructions:

1. Oven Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. This moderate temperature is perfect for baking pies, allowing the filling to set without burning the crust.
2. Crusts Ready: Gently lay each pie crust into your pie pans, crimping the edges for that classic pie look. Preparing the pans with crusts sets the stage for the filling.
3. Mix Filling: In a mixing bowl, lightly whisk the eggs—this introduces air but avoids over-beating. Add in the brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract, stirring just until combined. The goal is to incorporate these ingredients well without incorporating too much air into the filling.
4. Fill and Bake: Pour the filling evenly into the two pie crusts, smoothing the tops if necessary. Place the pies on the middle rack of your oven to ensure even baking. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown and set. Depending on your oven, you might need to extend the baking time slightly. The pies are done when there’s no jiggle in the center if you give the pan a gentle shake.
5. Cooling and Serving: After baking, let the pies cool. If the pie crust edges are browning too quickly, you can shield them with aluminum foil. Once cooled, you may find chilling the pies helps them set up perfectly, making slicing easier. For serving, a gentle warming brings out the best in the pie’s flavors.

Notes:

• Pie Crust Edges: To prevent the edges from browning too quickly, consider using pie crust shields or make your own from foil.
• Setting Up: Remember, the pie will continue to set as it cools. If it seems a bit too jiggly right out of the oven, give it time to firm up.

Nutrition:

• Calories: 269 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 45 mg
• Sodium: 107 mg
• Potassium: 69 mg
• Sugar: 27 g
• Vitamin A: 220 IU
• Calcium: 34 mg
• Iron: 0.9 mg

Southern Brown Sugar Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a bridge to the past, a nod to the simplicity of good, old-fashioned baking, and a sweet embrace of family tradition. Whether you’re introducing this pie to your table for the first time or continuing a long-held family practice, the warmth and sweetness of this pie are sure to make any occasion feel like a holiday.