Old Fashioned Raisin Pie A Sweet Nostalgic Delight

Introduction to Old Fashioned Raisin Pie

There’s something truly heartwarming about an Old Fashioned Raisin Pie. It reminds me of family gatherings, where laughter mingled with the sweet scent of baked goods wafting from the kitchen.

This delightful dessert features plump raisins nestled in a buttery crust, creating a sweet treat that’s both comforting and nostalgic.

Whether you’re a busy mom looking for a simple dessert or a professional needing a tasty pick-me-up, this recipe is perfect. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a slice of happiness that will make your loved ones smile.

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Raisin Pie

You’ll absolutely adore this Old Fashioned Raisin Pie for its charming simplicity.

It comes together in just over an hour, perfect for those busy days when you need something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Plus, the blend of spices and juicy raisins creates a taste that transports you back to simpler times.

It’s an easy dessert that’s bound to impress your family and bring smiles to all!

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Raisin Pie

To create a delightful Old Fashioned Raisin Pie, you’ll need a handful of ingredients that come together to form a delicious masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ripe Raisins: The star of the show! Plump and juicy, these little gems bring sweetness and depth to the pie.
• Water: Used to soak the raisins, allowing them to plump up and release their natural sweetness.
• Granulated Sugar: Essential for balancing the flavors, sugar enhances the sweetness of the raisins, making each bite a little slice of heaven.
• Cornstarch: This handy thickener ensures your filling has the perfect consistency. It helps bind everything together!
• Ground Cinnamon: A classic spice that adds warmth and depth; it pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the raisins.
• Ground Nutmeg: Just a pinch of nutmeg enhances the flavor profile, giving it that cozy, homemade feel.
• Lemon Juice: A splash of acidity to brighten the filling and balance the sweetness of the sugar.
• Vanilla Extract: A wonderful aromatic twist that complements the spices and enhances the overall flavor.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and a flaky texture to the pie crust, making every bite melt in your mouth.
• Pie Crust: Whether it’s homemade or store-bought, the crust is the foundation of your pie. It cradles all that lovely filling!

These ingredients are the heart and soul of this Old Fashioned Raisin Pie. Don’t hesitate to get creative! For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling.

If you’re short on time, store-bought raisins work just as well as the fresh ones.

For those who prefer a different crust flavor, try a graham cracker crust for a fun spin!

You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article for easy printing.

How to Make Old Fashioned Raisin Pie

Making an Old Fashioned Raisin Pie is easier than you might think!

Follow these simple steps to transform basic ingredients into a delicious dessert that captures the essence of home.

I’ll guide you through the process, ensuring each step is clear and achievable, even for busy cooks.

Step 1: Prepare the Raisins

Start by soaking 2 cups of ripe raisins in a medium bowl filled with warm water for about 15 minutes.

This soaking not only makes the raisins plump and juicy but also enhances their natural sweetness.

Trust me—the burst of flavor in each bite is worth the wait!

Step 2: Make the Filling

Once your raisins are ready, transfer them to a medium saucepan.

Add your soaked raisins and 1 cup of water over medium heat.

Stir in 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg.

Don’t forget 1 tablespoon of lemon juice—it’s the secret ingredient that brightens the flavor.

Cook this mixture gently until it thickens, around 5 minutes.

The fragrance of spices wafting through your kitchen is nothing short of magic!

Step 3: Preheat Oven and Prepare Crust

Now, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

While that heats up, grab your pie crust and roll it out.

If you’re using store-bought, simply unroll it into your pie dish.

Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges decoratively—this little touch adds charm to your pie!

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Pour the cooled raisin filling into your prepared crust.

Spread it evenly, ensuring those wonderful raisins are well-distributed.

For a beautiful finish, brush the edges of the crust with an egg wash made from a beaten egg mixed with water.

It gives a golden sheen as it bakes—the kind of shine that makes your pie look like it just stepped out of a bakery!

Step 5: Bake the Pie

Bake your pie for 15 minutes at 425°F.

Then, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for another 30 to 35 minutes.

Keep an eye on it to ensure the crust doesn’t over-brown.

When it’s done, you’ll have a perfectly golden pie filled with aromatic, sweet raisins!

Tips for Success

• Soak your raisins in hot water for that plumpness—trust me, it’s a game changer!
• Mix the cornstarch with sugar before adding it to the filling. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth texture.
• Keep an eye on your pie while baking; every oven is different! If the crust browns too quickly, you can cover it with foil.
• Let the pie cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set properly.

Equipment Needed

• Medium Saucepan: A sturdy pot for cooking your raisin filling; alternatives include a small Dutch oven.
• Pie Dish: A classic option for baking; a tart pan can also work wonders!
• Rolling Pin: Essential for rolling out dough; a wine bottle can double as a quick substitute.
• Mixing Spoon: To stir the filling; a spatula or wooden spoon is perfect too.

Variations of Old Fashioned Raisin Pie

• Spiced Nut Raisin Pie: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• Chocolate Chip Raisin Pie: Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips along with the raisins. The combination of chocolate and raisins is heavenly!
• Vegan Raisin Pie: Substitute butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative and use a dairy-free pie crust to make it suitable for vegan diets.
• Gluten-Free Raisin Pie: Experiment with a gluten-free pie crust made from almond or coconut flour, allowing everyone to enjoy this dessert!
• Rum Raisin Pie: For an adult twist, soak your raisins in a splash of dark rum before mixing them into the filling. It adds a rich depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch to your Old Fashioned Raisin Pie.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a slice warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
• Herbal Tea: Pair this pie with a cup of soothing herbal tea for a comforting experience.
• Dust with Powdered Sugar: Lightly dust the top with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation that invites your guests.

FAQs about Old Fashioned Raisin Pie

I know you might have a few questions fluttering in your mind as you dive into the world of Old Fashioned Raisin Pie.

Let’s tackle some of the most common queries that pop up!

Can I use different types of raisins?

Absolutely! While I love using standard raisins for this recipe, you can experiment with golden or sultana raisins.

Each type brings its own unique flavor and texture to the pie!

How do I store leftover pie?

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Just make sure to let it cool completely before packing it up!

It’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days.

Can I make the pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Make it a day in advance for flavors that meld beautifully overnight.

Just bake it, let it cool, cover it, and pop it in the fridge.

When ready to serve, just let it warm slightly at room temperature.

What can I substitute for the cornstarch?

If you’re out of cornstarch, you can use all-purpose flour as a thickening agent.

Just keep in mind that you may need more flour, about 1.5 tablespoons for every tablespoon of cornstarch.

Can I freeze Old Fashioned Raisin Pie?

Yes, you can freeze it! Once it’s completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.

It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge before enjoying it again!

Final Thoughts

As you savor each bite of this Old Fashioned Raisin Pie, I hope memories of warm kitchens and family traditions flood your heart.

This pie isn’t just a dessert—it’s a sweet reminder of cherished moments shared with loved ones.

With simple ingredients and heartfelt cooking, you create not only a delicious treat but also a comforting experience that brings everyone together.

So whether you’ve baked it for a family gathering or a quiet night in, it’s sure to warm souls and spread joy.

Embrace the nostalgia, and let every slice serve as a celebration of love and life!

Print