Desserts Mason Williams March 16, 2025 0 Comments

Raisin Pie Recipe

If you’re searching for a timeless dessert that blends sweetness, nostalgia, and a perfect balance of flavors, look no further than a raisin pie recipe. This old-fashioned treat has been a staple in many households for generations, offering a rich filling nestled in a flaky, golden crust. Though it may not always be the first dessert that comes to mind, once you try it, you’ll understand why it holds a special place in traditional baking.

Table of Contents

A Brief History of Raisin Pie

The raisin pie recipe has deep roots in North American and European culinary traditions. It gained popularity in the 19th and early 20th centuries when dried fruits were commonly used in baking, as they were easy to store and provided natural sweetness. The pie was particularly beloved by the Pennsylvania Dutch, who referred to it as “funeral pie” because it was frequently served at post-funeral gatherings due to its long shelf life and comforting taste.

Over time, the raisin pie evolved, with different regions adding their own twists. Some bakers infused the filling with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, while others incorporated nuts or a splash of citrus juice to enhance the flavor. No matter the variation, the essence of the pie remained the same—simple, sweet, and irresistibly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Raisin Pie Recipe

Rich, Sweet Flavor: The natural sweetness of raisins combined with a touch of sugar and spices creates a deeply satisfying taste.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, family dinner, or nostalgic craving, raisin pie is always a hit.
Easy to Make: The ingredients are pantry staples, and the preparation is straightforward, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced bakers.
A Taste of Tradition: If you love classic recipes passed down through generations, this pie delivers in every bite.

Ingredients for Raisin Pie

To make the perfect raisin pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Filling:

2 cups raisins (golden or dark, depending on preference)
1 1/2 cups water
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, but enhances the flavor)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon butter (for richness)

For the Pie Crust:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
6-8 tablespoons ice water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

If you’re making a homemade crust, follow these steps:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or food processor until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
Divide the dough in half, shape it into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Raisin Filling

In a medium saucepan, combine raisins and water. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
In a small bowl, mix the sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Add the sugar mixture to the boiling raisins and stir continuously until thickened.
Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
Stir in lemon juice, vanilla extract, and butter. Allow the filling to cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out one disc of chilled dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate.
Pour the raisin filling into the crust, spreading it evenly.
Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Seal the edges and cut slits on top to allow steam to escape.
Brush the crust with an egg wash for a golden finish (optional).

Step 4: Bake and Serve

Place the pie on the center rack of the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Allow the pie to cool before slicing to let the filling set properly.
Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Tips for the Best Raisin Pie

Use Quality Raisins: Fresh, plump raisins work best. If yours are dry, soak them in warm water before cooking.
Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice: It balances the sweetness and adds depth to the flavor.
Let the Pie Rest: Giving the pie time to cool prevents a runny filling when slicing.
Experiment with Nuts: Adding chopped walnuts or pecans can provide extra texture and a nutty contrast to the sweet filling.

Variations to Try

Spiced Rum Raisin Pie: Soak the raisins in a bit of rum for an extra punch of flavor.
Southern-Style Raisin Pie: Add a splash of molasses for a deeper, caramel-like taste.
Lattice-Top Raisin Pie: Instead of a full top crust, cut strips and weave a lattice pattern for a decorative touch.

What to Serve with Raisin Pie

A slice of raisin pie pairs beautifully with:

Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess balances the warm, spiced filling.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it complements the richness of the pie.
Cheddar Cheese: A surprising yet traditional pairing, sharp cheddar adds a savory contrast to the sweetness.

Final Thoughts

The raisin pie recipe may not be as common as apple or pecan pie, but it deserves a spot in every baker’s repertoire. With its rich history, comforting sweetness, and easy preparation, it’s a fantastic addition to any dessert table. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday, a special occasion, or just because you crave a slice of nostalgia, this pie is sure to impress. Try it once, and it just might become a new favorite!