Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe
If you love nostalgic, homey desserts that taste like a warm hug from grandma, you’re going to adore this Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe. Brimming with plump raisins suspended in a glossy, spiced filling and baked between layers of flaky golden crust, this pie is the kind of treat that takes you straight back to simpler times. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or trying it for the first time, you’ll soon see why this classic is cherished at holiday tables and family gatherings alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this pie lies in its simplicity: just a handful of pantry staples come together to create something truly magical. Each ingredient plays a starring role in the flavor and texture of the Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe, so let’s give them the spotlight before we start baking.
- Seedless raisins (2 cups): The heart of the pie, these become tender and juicy as they cook, absorbing all the sweet and spiced flavors.
- Water (2 cups): Softens the raisins and forms the base of the luscious filling.
- Packed brown sugar (1/2 cup): Adds deep caramel notes and a hint of molasses richness.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Balances out the flavor and ensures the pie is perfectly sweet without being overwhelming.
- Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): Thickens the filling so it slices beautifully and holds together.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just a pinch to bring out all the flavors and keep the pie from tasting flat.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Delivers that classic, cozy warmth we all associate with comforting desserts.
- Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle layer of spice and complexity.
- Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the filling and balances the sweetness with a gentle tang.
- Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon): Rounds out the filling with richness and a silky mouthfeel.
- Double pie crust (homemade or store-bought): The irresistible vessel for all that goodness—choose your favorite recipe or a quality ready-made crust.
- Egg (1, beaten): Brushed on top for a shiny, golden finish that makes the pie look as good as it tastes.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Raisin Filling
Start by placing the raisins and water in a medium saucepan. Bring them to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then lower the heat and let them simmer for about 5 minutes. This step plumps up the raisins, making them juicy and tender—just what you want in every bite of your Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
While your raisins are softening, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cornstarch, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl. This blend is what transforms the filling into something special, thickening it just right and infusing every spoonful with cozy spice.
Step 3: Thicken the Filling
Add your sugar and spice mixture to the simmering raisins, stirring constantly over medium heat. In just a few minutes, the mixture will thicken up beautifully, turning glossy and luscious. Once thickened, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vinegar (or lemon juice) and butter until the filling is smooth and silky.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Roll out half of your pie crust and gently fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Pour the slightly cooled raisin filling into the crust, spreading it evenly. Top with the second crust, sealing the edges well. Don’t forget to cut a few slits for steam to escape, or get creative with a lattice if you’re feeling fancy!
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Brush the top crust with the beaten egg for that irresistible, shiny finish. Bake in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 30 to 35 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let your Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe cool completely before slicing—this ensures the filling sets perfectly.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns each slice into a dreamy dessert. You can also dust the top with a little powdered sugar or a pinch of cinnamon for an extra-special touch.
Side Dishes
For a real treat, pair this pie with a mug of spiced tea or strong coffee. It also plays well with a simple fruit salad or a handful of toasted nuts to contrast the sweet, sticky filling.
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking the pie in mini tart pans for individual servings or cutting slices into wedges and serving them on vintage dessert plates for a true old-fashioned vibe. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted walnuts can add modern flair to this classic Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pie can be covered and stored at room temperature for a day, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making each slice even more delicious the next day!
Freezing
To freeze, let the pie cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It keeps well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.
Reheating
Warm slices in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked aroma and flaky crust. If you’re short on time, a quick zap in the microwave works too, though the crust will be softer.
FAQs
Can I use golden raisins instead of regular?
Absolutely! Golden raisins lend a lighter color and slightly different flavor, but they work beautifully in the Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe.
What kind of pie crust works best?
A homemade buttery crust is always a winner, but a good-quality store-bought crust is just fine—especially if you’re short on time or baking for a crowd.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Just swap the butter for a plant-based alternative, use a vegan pie crust, and skip the egg wash or use a non-dairy milk to brush the top.
Why do I need to let the pie cool completely before slicing?
Cooling allows the filling to fully set, making it much easier to slice neat, picture-perfect pieces of Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe without a gooey mess.
Can I add nuts or other dried fruit?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans are a classic addition, and you can experiment with dried cranberries or cherries for a fun twist.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as comforting as it is unique, give this Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe a try. There’s something special about sharing a slice of history—one bite and you’ll understand why this pie has stood the test of time!
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Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie is a classic American dessert featuring a luscious, spiced raisin filling encased in a flaky double crust. Perfect for those who love vintage desserts, this pie combines the natural sweetness of raisins with warm cinnamon and nutmeg, finished with a buttery, golden crust. Ideal for a comforting treat served with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
Filling Ingredients
- 2 cups seedless raisins
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Crust and Finishing
- 1 double pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the pie.
- Cook Raisins: In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of seedless raisins with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes to soften the raisins.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg until well combined.
- Combine Mixture: Add the sugar and spice mixture to the simmering raisins. Stir constantly over medium heat until the mixture thickens, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add Final Ingredients: Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter until smooth. Allow the filling to cool slightly.
- Prepare Pie Crust: Roll out half of the double pie crust and place it into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing gently to fit.
- Fill Pie: Pour the cooled raisin filling evenly into the pie crust in the dish.
- Top Crust: Cover the filling with the second half of the pie crust. Seal the edges by crimping, then cut slits or create a lattice pattern on top to let steam escape during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the top crust with the beaten egg to give the pie a beautiful golden finish.
- Bake Pie: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to allow the filling to set properly.
Notes
- For extra flavor, soak the raisins in a splash of dark rum before cooking to add depth to the filling.
- Serve the pie with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
- The pie is best enjoyed the next day when the flavors have fully melded and deepened.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
