Grandma’s Old Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe

If you’ve ever longed for a dessert that tastes like a warm hug from generations past, you need to try Grandma’s Old Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe. This timeless classic combines plump, soaked raisins with a rich, spiced syrup filling nestled inside buttery, flaky crusts that bake up golden and inviting. It’s a comforting slice of nostalgia that carries the essence of old-fashioned home cooking, making it perfect to share with loved ones or to savor as a special treat on a quiet afternoon.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Whipping up Grandma’s Old Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe relies on simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, but each one plays a pivotal role in creating its irresistible flavor and texture. Let’s look at how they come together.

• 4 cups water: Essential for soaking and cooking the raisins to plump perfection, ensuring a juicy filling.
• 4 cups raisins: The star of the show providing natural sweetness and chewiness that define this pie.
• 1 cup light brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like richness that complements the raisins beautifully.
• 5 tablespoons cornstarch: Acts as a thickener, giving the filling that luscious, glossy texture that holds together without being runny.
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Brings a gentle warm spice note that elevates the raisin flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall depth of flavor.
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice: Adds a bright, subtle acidity to cut through the sweetness and keep the flavor lively.
• 3 tablespoons butter (not margarine): Enriches the filling with silky smoothness and a hint of creaminess.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a gentle floral aroma that rounds out the pie’s flavor profile.
• 2, 9-inch deep dish pie shells: Provide the perfect buttery, flaky containers for that delicious filling.

How to Make Grandma’s Old Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Raisins

Start by combining the raisins and water in a medium pot, bringing them to a boil. Cooking the raisins for five minutes helps them absorb moisture, making them plump and tender, which is key to that luscious filling you’re after.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While your raisins are softening, mix together the brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and salt in a separate bowl. This combination creates the sweet, thickening base of the filling. Gradually stir this blend into the hot raisin water to ensure everything is smooth and lump-free.

Step 3: Cook and Thicken the Filling

Keep stirring the mixture over medium heat until the syrup thickens noticeably and coats the back of a spoon. Once thick, remove your pot from the heat and stir in the lemon juice, butter, and vanilla extract. This step not only adds complexity but also cools the filling slightly, preparing it for the pie assembly.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Pour the warm raisin filling evenly into one of the prepared deep dish pie shells. This is where your pie begins to take shape, so make sure to spread it out evenly.

Step 5: Add the Top Crust

Carefully remove the crust from the second pie shell and position it over the filling. Press the edges together firmly to seal in that luscious filling, and don’t forget to cut several small slits into the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place your assembled pie in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the crust boasts a golden brown hue and the filling bubbles invitingly beneath the surface. Then it’s time to let it cool slightly before slicing.

How to Serve Grandma’s Old Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe

Garnishes

While this pie shines on its own, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a creamy counterpoint. You can also sprinkle a touch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top for a delicate aroma and an extra pop of flavor.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or a lightly spiced chai tea to balance the richness and sweetness. Fresh fruit such as sliced apples or pears can also brighten your dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming twist, serve individual slices with a drizzle of warm caramel or honey. You might even use tartlet-sized crusts to create bite-sized versions perfect for parties or afternoon tea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Grandma’s Old Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe keeps beautifully covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for up to four. Proper storage ensures the crust stays crisp and the filling maintains its wonderful texture.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy it fresh.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly baked warmth, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help crisp the crust again and warm the filling without drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use other dried fruits instead of raisins?

Absolutely! While raisins are traditional for Grandma’s Old Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe, you can experiment with currants, dried cherries, or a mix of dried fruits for different textures and flavors.

Is it better to use homemade or store-bought pie crust?

Both work well, but homemade crust adds an extra layer of love and flavor to this classic dessert. However, a good quality store-bought crust can save time and still yield delicious results.

How do I prevent the pie crust from getting soggy?

Cooking the raisins beforehand and allowing the filling to cool slightly before assembling helps prevent sogginess. Also, baking the pie until the crust is golden helps keep it crisp.

Can I make this pie gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pie crusts and ensure your cornstarch and other ingredients are certified gluten-free. The rest of the recipe remains the same for a tasty alternative.

What’s the secret to getting the filling just right?

Patience with stirring the filling until thickened and tasting for balance with lemon juice and vanilla makes all the difference in capturing the perfect sweet-tart harmony.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly something magical about baking Grandma’s Old Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe—each bite feels like a trip back to cozy kitchen memories and slower, sweeter times. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try; once you do, you might just find it becoming a treasured family favorite, too.

Grandma’s Old Fashioned Raisin Pie Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 1 9-inch pie (8 servings) 1x

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Description

Grandma’s Old Fashioned Raisin Pie is a nostalgic dessert featuring a rich, thickened raisin filling with warm spices and a flaky deep-dish pie crust. Sweetened with light brown sugar and enhanced with vanilla and lemon juice, this comforting pie bakes to golden perfection, making it a timeless treat perfect for cozy gatherings or special occasions.

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Ingredients

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Filling

• 4 cups water
• 4 cups raisins
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 5 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons butter (not margarine)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pie Crust

• 2, 9-inch deep dish pie shells

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Raisins: Combine 4 cups of raisins and 4 cups of water in a medium pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 5 minutes until the raisins soften and plump up.
2. Make the Filling: In a separate bowl, blend together 1 cup light brown sugar, 5 tablespoons cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Gradually stir this dry mixture into the hot boiling raisins to avoid lumps.
3. Thicken the Syrup: Cook the raisin mixture while stirring constantly until the syrup thickens noticeably. Once thickened, remove the pot from heat and stir in 2 teaspoons lemon juice, 3 tablespoons butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Allow the filling to cool slightly for easier handling.
4. Assemble the Pie: Pour the cooled raisin filling evenly into one of the 9-inch deep dish pie shells, spreading it out smoothly.
5. Top the Pie: Remove the crust from the second pie shell and carefully place it on top of the filled pie. Seal the edges by pinching the top and bottom crusts together firmly. Cut several small slits in the top crust to vent steam during baking.
6. Bake the Pie: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the assembled pie for 30 to 35 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.

Notes

• Ensure you use butter, not margarine, for richer flavor and better texture in the filling.
• Let the filling cool slightly before assembling the pie to prevent soggy crusts.
• Cutting slits in the top crust is important to allow steam to escape and avoid bursting.
• This pie can be served warm or at room temperature, optionally with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
• Use deep dish pie shells to accommodate the generous raisin filling.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American