Old Fashioned Raisin Pie

Old Fashioned Raisin Pie is a timeless dessert bursting with plump raisins and warm spices enveloped in a flaky, golden crust. This nostalgic treat is a perfect balance of sweetness and tang, making it a favorite for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a taste of classic comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Timeless Flavor: A vintage dessert with a rich, spiced filling that’s sure to bring back memories.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and easy-to-find ingredients.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: A unique pie that stands out on dessert tables.
• Customizable: Adjust the spices or add nuts for a personalized touch.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Raisins
• Water
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Cornstarch
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Salt
• Butter
• Lemon juice
• Pastry for a double-crust pie

Directions

1. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine raisins and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
   • In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Add this mixture to the saucepan, stirring constantly.
   • Cook until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
   • Remove from heat and stir in butter and lemon juice. Let cool slightly.
2. Assemble the Pie:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan.
   • Pour the raisin filling into the crust.
   • Roll out the second crust and place it over the filling. Seal the edges and cut slits in the top to vent.
3. Bake the Pie:
   • Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
   • If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
4. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to let the filling set. Serve plain or with a dollop of whipped cream.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Nutty Addition: Stir in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
• Spice Blend: Experiment with cloves or allspice for a different flavor profile.
• Cranberry-Raisin Twist: Mix in dried cranberries for a tangy variation.
• Richer Filling: Replace water with brewed tea or apple juice for a deeper flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pie crust for a celiac-friendly dessert.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Cover and store the pie at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes.
• Freezing: Wrap the baked pie tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

Can I use golden raisins instead of regular raisins?

Yes, golden raisins offer a slightly different flavor and are just as delicious.

Do I need to pre-bake the crust?

No, the crust bakes along with the filling in this recipe.

What type of pastry works best for this pie?

A homemade or store-bought all-butter pie crust works beautifully.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best made a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set.

How do I prevent the bottom crust from becoming soggy?

Preheating the baking sheet can help crisp up the bottom crust.

Can I reduce the sugar in the filling?

You can reduce the sugar slightly, but keep in mind it balances the tartness of the raisins and lemon juice.

What can I serve with raisin pie?

A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream complements the rich filling.

How do I know when the pie is done?

The crust should be golden brown, and the filling should be bubbling through the vents.

Can I use a lattice crust instead of a full top crust?

Yes, a lattice crust works well and adds a decorative touch.

What’s the best way to reheat frozen pie?

Reheat the pie in a 350°F oven until warmed through, covering the edges with foil to prevent over-browning.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Raisin Pie is a delightful throwback to classic dessert recipes, offering a warm, spiced filling wrapped in flaky crust. Perfect for holidays or family gatherings, this pie is sure to become a cherished tradition. Give it a try and savor the timeless flavors of this vintage favorite!

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