If you’ve ever longed for a taste of pure nostalgia, Grandma’s Old Fashioned Raisin Pie is the ultimate comfort food that brings generations together around the table. This pie is a sweet, fragrant blend of plump raisins suspended in a spiced, glossy filling and wrapped in a tender, golden crust—each bite a reminder of simpler times and cherished family gatherings. Whether you grew up with it or are discovering it for the first time, this classic dessert is sure to win you over with its old-school charm and irresistible flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s something magical about the simplicity of the ingredients in Grandma’s Old Fashioned Raisin Pie. Each one serves an important purpose, from the chewy richness of raisins to the warming spice of cinnamon, creating a pie that’s as beautiful to look at as it is to eat.
- Raisins (2 cups): The star of the show; use plump, fresh raisins for the juiciest filling.
- Water (1 1/2 cups): Helps soften the raisins and forms the base of the luscious pie filling.
- Brown Sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Adds depth and a hint of molasses flavor for a rich, caramelized sweetness.
- Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup): Balances the brown sugar and ensures the filling isn’t too heavy.
- Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): Thickens the filling to the perfect, sliceable consistency.
- Ground Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses the filling with a cozy, comforting spice.
- Ground Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle warmth and classic pie aroma.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
- Apple Cider Vinegar or Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens up the flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Unsalted Butter (1 tablespoon): Gives the filling a luscious finish and a glossy sheen.
- Double Pie Crust (homemade or store-bought): Holds everything together in flaky, golden perfection.
How to Make Grandma’s Old Fashioned Raisin Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Raisin Mixture
Start by combining the raisins and water in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. You’ll notice the raisins plumping up, absorbing the water, and turning irresistibly juicy. This step unlocks the deep, fruity flavor that defines Grandma’s Old Fashioned Raisin Pie.
Step 2: Make the Sweet and Spiced Filling
While the raisins simmer, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a small bowl. This blend is the secret to the pie’s classic, spiced sweetness. Stir the sugar mixture into the simmering raisins and cook, stirring often, until the filling thickens to a shiny, jammy consistency—just about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice) and butter until everything is melted and glossy. Set the filling aside to cool slightly; this helps the pie set up beautifully later.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Roll out one of your pie crusts and gently fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Pour in that gorgeous raisin filling, spreading it out evenly. Top with the second crust, trim any excess, and crimp the edges to seal in all that flavor. Don’t forget to cut a few small slits in the top crust—these let steam escape and help you achieve that perfectly flaky finish.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide your pie into a preheated 400°F oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The crust will turn golden brown, and the filling will bubble up in the most tempting way. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, cover them with a ring of foil to protect them while the rest of the pie finishes baking. Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing—this patience pays off with tidy, beautiful pieces.
How to Serve Grandma’s Old Fashioned Raisin Pie
Garnishes
A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes Grandma’s Old Fashioned Raisin Pie from wonderful to downright irresistible. The cool, creamy topping is the perfect match for the warm, spiced filling. For a little crunch, sprinkle on some toasted chopped walnuts or a dusting of cinnamon sugar right before serving.
Side Dishes
Pair each slice with a cup of hot coffee or spiced tea to round out the experience. If you’re serving this at a holiday meal, a simple fruit salad or a selection of mild cheeses can offer a refreshing contrast to the pie’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the pie into petite wedges for a dessert buffet, or use a star-shaped cookie cutter to make playful mini-pies from the top crust scraps—kids love this touch! You can also serve Grandma’s Old Fashioned Raisin Pie slightly warm in ramekins for an elegant, individual presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making it a perfect make-ahead treat for busy weeks or special occasions.
Freezing
Grandma’s Old Fashioned Raisin Pie freezes beautifully! Allow the baked pie to cool completely, then wrap it well in plastic wrap and a layer of foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, place individual slices or the whole pie in a 300°F oven until warmed through—about 10 to 15 minutes. This little extra step revives the crust and brings out the aromas of the spices, making every bite taste freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use golden raisins instead of regular raisins?
Absolutely! Golden raisins give a lighter flavor and a beautiful amber color to the filling. They’re a fun twist while still honoring the spirit of Grandma’s Old Fashioned Raisin Pie.
Why does the filling need vinegar or lemon juice?
The touch of acid from vinegar or lemon juice balances the sweetness of the filling and helps brighten the overall flavor, so the pie doesn’t taste flat or overly sugary.
Can I add nuts or other ingredients to the filling?
Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch and make the pie even more satisfying. You can also stir in a handful of currants or a pinch of orange zest for a different flavor profile.
How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?
Make sure your filling is thickened and not too hot when adding it to the crust, and always bake the pie on the lower rack of your oven. If you want extra insurance, sprinkle a little flour or ground nuts on the bottom crust before filling.
Can I make Grandma’s Old Fashioned Raisin Pie ahead of time?
Definitely! This pie keeps well in the fridge for several days and, in fact, the flavors deepen as it sits. It’s a fantastic make-ahead dessert for family gatherings or holiday meals.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s warm, nostalgic, and guaranteed to spark conversation, Grandma’s Old Fashioned Raisin Pie is a must-bake. It’s a slice of tradition that never goes out of style—give it a try and you might just find it becomes your own family classic!
