Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe

Let me take you back to the simpler times with this Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a cozy hug from your grandma, one that fills your kitchen with the most comforting smells. If you’ve never had raisin pie before, you’re in for a treat—this pie is sweet and spicy with a rich, custardy filling, all encased in a buttery, flaky crust. It’s an unexpected classic that will surprise you with how delicious it is, and trust me, you’ll want to keep coming back for another slice (or two). Perfect for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or just when you’re craving something heartwarming and nostalgic.

Why You’ll Love Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie

This pie isn’t just a dessert; it’s a tradition. Whether you’re new to it or have fond memories of it from your childhood, here’s why it will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Nostalgic Comfort: There’s something about this pie that feels like home. It’s the kind of dessert that brings memories of family gatherings and warm kitchens. You’re going to love how familiar it feels with every bite.
• Simple, Pantry-Friendly Ingredients: This pie uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, which means you can whip it up without a special trip to the store.
• Deliciously Sweet & Spicy: The raisins soften up during baking and soak in all the warm spices, creating a sweet and spiced filling that’s rich, but not too overwhelming.
• Classic, But Different: If you’re used to fruit pies like apple or cherry, raisin pie offers a fun and unique twist while still giving you that comforting, homey feeling.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From a holiday dessert table to a casual weeknight treat, this pie is versatile enough for all occasions.

Ingredients

Now, let’s gather the ingredients for this timeless dessert. Simple but flavorful, these pantry staples will come together to create the most delicious pie.

Raisins

Raisins are the star of this pie. They’ll become soft and plump as they bake, infusing the pie with a natural sweetness.

Sugar

Sweetness is key in this pie. We use sugar to balance the tang of the raisins and to create that sweet, rich filling.

Butter

Butter brings richness and a golden, melt-in-your-mouth texture to the filling, making it smooth and creamy.

Eggs

Eggs are the binder for the filling. They help create a custard-like texture, giving the pie a tender, almost creamy consistency.

Flour

Flour thickens the filling, helping it set to just the right consistency so it doesn’t run everywhere when you slice into it.

Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Cloves

A combination of warm spices gives this pie its nostalgic, comforting flavor. These spices complement the sweetness of the raisins perfectly, creating a rich, cozy flavor profile.

Apple Cider Vinegar

This little ingredient adds a bit of tang to balance the sweetness and bring out the depth of flavor in the pie. Don’t worry, it doesn’t taste like vinegar, but just a hint of acidity rounds out the flavor beautifully.

Pie Crust

A buttery, flaky pie crust holds everything together. You can use a store-bought crust or make your own from scratch—either way, it’ll be the perfect base for this comforting filling.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to make this old-fashioned favorite! It’s simple, but so delicious.

Prepare the Pie Crust

If you’re using a store-bought pie crust, just roll it out and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. If you’re making your own, roll out the dough and place it into your pie dish. Trim the edges and crimp them to make a pretty, rustic border. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) while you prepare the filling.

Soak the Raisins

Place your raisins in a bowl and cover them with hot water. Let them soak for about 10 minutes to plump them up. Once they’re softened, drain off any excess water.

Make the Filling

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine. Gradually add the egg yolks and apple cider vinegar, mixing constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the raisins.

Assemble the Pie

Pour the raisin mixture into the prepared pie crust. Make sure the raisins are spread evenly throughout the filling. Use the leftover egg whites to brush the edges of the crust for a golden finish.

Bake the Pie

Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes at 425°F (220°C) to set the crust. Then, lower the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes. The pie is done when the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.

Let It Cool

After baking, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely. This is important so the filling has time to set properly. It may seem like it’s still a bit wobbly when you first take it out, but it will firm up as it cools.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooled, slice and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Trust me, this pie is like a warm hug on a plate.

Nutrition Facts

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Preparation Time

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How to Serve Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie

While this pie is delicious on its own, here are a few ways to elevate the experience:

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, creamy contrast to the rich, spiced filling.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve it with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a sweet and refreshing complement to the warm pie.
• Cheese: In some traditions, raisin pie is served with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese. The savory, tangy cheese pairs surprisingly well with the sweet filling.
• Coffee or Tea: Pair a slice with a hot cup of coffee or a fragrant black tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to make this raisin pie even more fabulous:

• Make It Ahead: This pie keeps well in the fridge for a few days, so you can make it ahead of time for your holiday meal or special occasion.
• Use Different Spices: If you like a bit of heat, add a dash of ginger or allspice to the filling for an extra kick.
• Pie Crust Tips: If you’re making your own pie crust, make sure the dough is chilled before you roll it out. This helps create a flaky, tender crust.
• Storage: Store leftover pie in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it to keep the crust from getting soggy.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use different dried fruits instead of raisins?
A1: Yes! You can swap raisins for currants, sultanas, or even chopped dried apricots or prunes. Keep in mind that different fruits may affect the flavor slightly.

Q2: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can make this pie the day before you plan to serve it. Just refrigerate it and let it come to room temperature before serving.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftover raisin pie in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just cover it with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh.

Q4: Can I freeze this pie?
A4: Yes! You can freeze the pie either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly and bake it directly from the freezer when ready. If freezing after baking, let it cool, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Q5: Can I make a mini version of this pie?
A5: Absolutely! You can use individual pie dishes or muffin tins to make mini versions of this pie. Just reduce the baking time to 20-25 minutes.

Q6: Can I make this pie without the apple cider vinegar?
A6: While the vinegar adds a nice balance to the sweetness, you can omit it if you prefer. The pie will still be delicious without it.

Q7: How do I know when the pie is done?
A7: The filling should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center. If it’s firm to the touch and golden on top, it’s ready!

Q8: What should I do if the pie crust gets too brown?
A8: If the edges of the pie crust brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil during the second half of baking to prevent overbaking.

Q9: Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
A9: Yes! Using a store-bought crust is a time-saver and works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the package for best results.

Q10: How can I make this pie healthier?
A10: For a healthier version, you can use a whole wheat pie crust and reduce the sugar slightly. You can also try substituting a sugar alternative if you’re watching your sugar intake.

Conclusion

This Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie is like a slice of history, full of sweet and spiced flavors that will warm your heart

. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering, a family dinner, or just a cozy treat, this pie is sure to be a hit. It’s easy to make, comforting, and delicious—what more could you ask for?

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