Name: Classic Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe: A Nostalgic Delight
Prep time: PT25 minutesM
Cook time: PT40 minutesM
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 8 servings

About This Recipe

A classic raisin pie recipe with a sweet and tangy filling, perfect for a nostalgic treat.

Ingredients

8 servings

Pie Filling

2 cups raisins (golden or dark)
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 ⅓ cups water
3 tbsp cornstarch
½ cup fresh orange juice
1 tsp orange zest
3 tbsp lemon juice
½ cup chopped walnuts

Pie Crust

Enough dough for a 9-inch double crust pie
1 egg white, beaten (for brushing)
1-2 tsp granulated sugar (for topping)

Kitchen Tools

9-inch pie plate

Medium saucepan

Whisk

Measuring cups and spoons

Sharp knife

Instructions

Preparing the Filling

1

In a medium saucepan, whisk together brown sugar, cornstarch, and water until smooth.

2

Stir in orange juice, zest, lemon juice, and raisins.

3

Cook over medium heat until bubbling and thickened, then simmer for 1 more minute.

4

Remove from heat, stir in walnuts, and let the mixture cool completely.

Assembling and Baking

5

Line a 9-inch pie plate with one crust.

6

Fill with the cooled raisin mixture.

7

Cover with the second crust, sealing the edges, and cut small vents on top.

8

Brush with beaten egg white and sprinkle lightly with sugar.

9

Bake at 400°F for 35–40 minutes, shielding with foil if the crust browns too quickly.

10

Let the pie cool at least 1 hour before slicing.

Chef's Tips

Use a high-quality pie crust for the best results.
Don’t overbake the pie, or the filling will become dry.
Let the pie cool completely before slicing to allow the filling to set.
Toast the walnuts before adding them to the filling for a richer flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not cooling the filling before pouring it into the crust can result in a soggy crust.
Overmixing the pie dough can lead to a tough crust.
Forgetting to vent the top crust can cause the pie to explode in the oven.

Variations

Apple Raisin Pie

Add 2 cups of diced apples to the raisin filling for a fruity twist.

Spiced Raisin Pie

Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon of cloves to the filling for a warm, spiced flavor.

Rum Raisin Pie

Soak the raisins in ¼ cup of rum for at least 30 minutes before adding them to the filling for a boozy kick.

Storage & Freezing

Store the baked raisin pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

This classic old-fashioned raisin pie is a timeless dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its sweet and tangy filling, combined with a flaky crust, makes it a comforting and satisfying treat. Give this recipe a try and experience the joy of homemade raisin pie!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes, you can substitute pecans or almonds for the walnuts in this recipe.

Can I use a sugar substitute?

While you can experiment with sugar substitutes, brown sugar contributes to the unique flavor and texture of the filling. Results may vary.

How do I prevent the crust from burning?

If the crust is browning too quickly, shield it with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.

Can I make a lattice crust?

Yes, you can create a lattice crust instead of a solid top crust for a more decorative pie.

What's the best way to plump the raisins?

Simmering the raisins in the citrus juice helps to plump them up and infuse them with flavor.

Related Keywords

old fashioned pie dessert recipe homemade pie raisin dessert walnut pie

Classic Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe: A Nostalgic Delight