Raisin Pie
The first time I made Raisin Pie, it was a rainy afternoon, and the aroma of sweet fruit filling wafted through my kitchen, bringing back memories of my grandmother baking in her cozy home. We would gather around the table, eager for a slice of her famous pie, which seemed to vanish in minutes. This recipe has been passed down through generations, each bite bursting with nostalgia and warmth, reminding us of family gatherings and shared laughter. The perfect balance of tart and sweet in the filling, encased in a flaky crust, is simply irresistible. As I prepare this Raisin Pie, I can’t help but feel grateful for those cherished moments. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of tradition and love.
Recipe Snapshot
1 hr 10 mins
15 mins
55 mins
Medium
270 kcal
3 g
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP
1 g
Pie Pan, sauce pan
What We Adore About This Raisin Pie
A Sweet Tradition
There’s something magical about a homemade Raisin Pie. It’s not just about the ingredients; it’s the memories tied to it. I often think back to my childhood, where my family would come together to enjoy this delightful dessert during special occasions. The recipe is simple yet brings so much joy and warmth, making it a staple in our household.
Versatile and Unique
This pie stands out because of its versatility. You can enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or serve it chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Each time I make it, I like to experiment with the spices, sometimes adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg, which elevates the flavor profile to another level. You can also adapt it to include other fruits, making it even more unique!
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a simple family dinner, a Raisin Pie fits right in. This pie is perfect for gatherings, as it can easily serve many people. The sweet, rich filling is always a crowd-pleaser, and I often find myself sharing slices with friends and neighbors who drop by unexpectedly.
Health Benefits of Raisins
Did you know that raisins are packed with nutrients? They are a great source of antioxidants, iron, and potassium. Incorporating them into a pie not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers some health benefits. It’s a sneaky way to include a nutrient-dense ingredient in a dessert that everyone loves, making it a guilt-free indulgence!
A Recipe to Share
This Raisin Pie is more than just a dish; it’s a recipe I love to share. I often invite friends over to bake together, turning it into a fun activity. As we roll out the dough and mix the filling, we share stories and laughter, creating new memories that echo the joy of the past. This pie symbolizes connection, making it a wonderful recipe to keep alive.
Raisin Pie Ingredients
When it comes to making a perfect Raisin Pie, the ingredients are key. Each component plays a significant role in delivering the tantalizing flavors and delightful textures that make this dessert so beloved. The combination of sweet and tangy elements ensures a well-balanced pie that’s satisfying and nostalgic.
- 2 1/2 cups raisins: The star of the show, these dried fruits add a delightful chewiness and sweetness to the filling, creating that signature flavor.
- 1 1/4 cups light brown sugar: This ingredient provides the necessary sweetness, enhancing the natural flavors of the raisins while giving the filling a lovely caramel-like richness.
- 1 2/3 cups water: Used to cook the filling, it helps to rehydrate the raisins and create a luscious, syrupy texture.
- 3 3/4 tablespoons cornstarch: This is crucial for thickening the filling, ensuring it holds together beautifully when baked.
- 2/3 cup fresh orange juice: A splash of citrus brightens the flavor profile, adding a refreshing zing that complements the sweetness of the filling.
- 1 1/4 teaspoons orange zest: This ingredient enhances the overall aroma and flavor, giving the pie a fragrant, fragrant kick.
- 3 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Similar to the orange juice, it balances the sweetness of the pie and adds a lovely tartness.
- 2/3 cup coarsely chopped walnuts: These nuts introduce a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor, harmonizing beautifully with the raisins.
- Dough for two pie crusts: The crust is essential, providing a flaky and buttery base that envelops the delicious filling.
- 1 egg white: Beaten and brushed on top of the pie, it provides a beautiful golden sheen when baked.
- 1-2 teaspoons granulated sugar: Sprinkled on top for a bit of extra sweetness and a nice texture contrast.
Cooking Instructions for Raisin Pie
Making a Raisin Pie is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas and warm feelings. Follow these steps for a scrumptious dessert that’ll impress everyone!
Start by preparing the filling for your Raisin Pie. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 1/4 cups light brown sugar, 1 2/3 cups water, and 3 3/4 tablespoons cornstarch. Stir the mixture well to dissolve the cornstarch. You want a smooth blend to ensure your filling thickens nicely.
Add the 2/3 cup fresh orange juice, 1 1/4 teaspoons orange zest, 3 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, and 2 1/2 cups raisins to the saucepan. Stir these ingredients together until well mixed, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully.
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the ingredients continuously as the mixture begins to bubble and thickens. This process will take a few minutes, and you’ll notice the filling transforming into a luscious, syrupy consistency.
Once it reaches a bubble, cook the filling for about 1 minute, continuing to stir. After this time, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 2/3 cup coarsely chopped walnuts. Let the mixture cool completely. This step is crucial as it ensures that the filling doesn’t make the crust soggy.
Prepare your pie crust. Roll out the dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. It should hang slightly over the edges, giving you enough room to seal the pie.
Pour the cooled filling into your prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen, and you’ll be tempted to sneak a taste!
Cover the pie with the second rolled-out crust. Seal the edges by crimping or fluting, ensuring no filling seeps out during baking.
Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the top crust with 1 beaten egg white. This will give the pie a beautiful golden brown color as it bakes.
Sprinkle 1-2 teaspoons granulated sugar lightly on top of the crust for added sweetness and a nice texture.
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Bake the Raisin Pie for about 35 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on it, especially around the 30-minute mark. If the pie crust reaches your desired golden brown, you can cover it with a piece of aluminum foil to prevent over-browning during the remaining baking time.
Things Worth Knowing
- Chilling the Dough: If your pie crust is too warm, it will be difficult to work with. Chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes before rolling it out for the best results.
- Preventing Sogginess: To avoid a soggy bottom crust, consider pre-baking the crust for about 5 to 10 minutes before adding the filling.
- Cooling the Pie: Allow the pie to cool for at least an hour after baking. This helps the filling set up properly, making it easier to slice.
- Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store the pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s just as delicious cold!
- Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for an extra flavor kick that pairs wonderfully with the raisins.
Recipe Tips about Raisin Pie
Making the perfect Raisin Pie is not only about following the steps; it’s about the little tips that can elevate your dish. Here are some helpful pointers to ensure your pie turns out beautifully.
- Storage: To keep your Raisin Pie fresh, store it in the refrigerator. Cover it with plastic wrap or use an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
- Freezing: If you want to make this pie ahead of time, you can freeze it. Allow it to cool completely, then cover it well with aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the fridge and rewarm it in the oven.
- Pairing: This pie pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. It also complements a cup of hot tea or coffee perfectly.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding other dried fruits like cranberries or cherries to the filling for a unique twist!
- Baking Tips: Always check the pie around the 30-minute mark to prevent overbaking. If the crust is browning too fast, cover it with foil.
Serving Ideas for Raisin Pie
When it comes to serving your Raisin Pie, the possibilities are endless!
- Special Occasions: This pie is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family gathering. It brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth to the table.
- Everyday Treat: Enjoy it as a delightful dessert after dinner or as an afternoon snack with tea.
- With Ice Cream: Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Chilled Slices: Some people prefer to enjoy it chilled, straight from the fridge. It’s still delicious!
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing.
- Sharing with Friends: Don’t hesitate to share this pie with friends or neighbors. It’s a great way to spread joy and make new memories!
FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, Raisin Pie is a dessert that holds the taste of tradition and sweet memories in every slice. It’s easy to make, delicious, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. I invite you to try baking this delightful pie, not just for the taste but for the joy it brings to your home. Gather your loved ones, create new memories, and enjoy every bite of this special treat.
Raisin Pie
Equipment
- Pie Pan
- sauce pan
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups raisins
- 1 1/4 cups light brown sugar packed
- 1 2/3 cups water
- 3 3/4 Tablespoons cornstarch
- 2/3 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 1/4 teaspoon orange zest
- 3 1/2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2/3 cup coarsely chopped walnuts
- Dough for two pie crusts (bottom and top crusts)
- 1 egg white beaten
- 1-2 teaspoons granulated sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
- Start by preparing the filling for your Raisin Pie. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 1/4 cups light brown sugar, 1 2/3 cups water, and 3 3/4 tablespoons cornstarch. Stir the mixture well to dissolve the cornstarch. You want a smooth blend to ensure your filling thickens nicely.
- Add the 2/3 cup fresh orange juice, 1 1/4 teaspoons orange zest, 3 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, and 2 1/2 cups raisins to the saucepan. Stir these ingredients together until well mixed, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the ingredients continuously as the mixture begins to bubble and thickens. This process will take a few minutes, and you’ll notice the filling transforming into a luscious, syrupy consistency.
- Once it reaches a bubble, cook the filling for about 1 minute, continuing to stir. After this time, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 2/3 cup coarsely chopped walnuts. Let the mixture cool completely. This step is crucial as it ensures that the filling doesn’t make the crust soggy.
- Prepare your pie crust. Roll out the dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. It should hang slightly over the edges, giving you enough room to seal the pie.
- Pour the cooled filling into your prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen, and you’ll be tempted to sneak a taste!
- Cover the pie with the second rolled-out crust. Seal the edges by crimping or fluting, ensuring no filling seeps out during baking.
- Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the top crust with 1 beaten egg white. This will give the pie a beautiful golden brown color as it bakes.
- Sprinkle 1-2 teaspoons granulated sugar lightly on top of the crust for added sweetness and a nice texture contrast.
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Bake the Raisin Pie for about 35 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on it, especially around the 30-minute mark. If the pie crust reaches your desired golden brown, you can cover it with a piece of aluminum foil to prevent over-browning during the remaining baking time.
Notes
- Make ahead instructions: The pie filling could be made up to one week in advance depending on freshness of ingredients. Remove filling from fridge 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature. Pie crust can be made 1-2 days in advance, stored in the fridge.
- Freezing Instructions: To freeze raisin pie, follow recipe instructions. Allow to cool after baking, then cover well with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and rewarm in the oven before serving.
