Raisin Pie Recipe – The Perfect Homemade Comfort Food Dessert on 2025

Nothing beats the comforting taste of a homemade raisin pie—rich, sweet, and filled with nostalgia. Whether you remember it from family gatherings or want to try an old-fashioned dessert, this raisin pie recipe will bring back cherished memories. With its golden, flaky crust and warm, spiced raisin filling, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion.

Introduction to Raisin Pie Recipe

What is Raisin Pie?

Raisin pie is a traditional dessert that features a thick, sweet, and sticky raisin filling encased in a buttery, flaky pie crust. It’s especially popular in Amish and Mennonite communities, where it’s sometimes called funeral pie because it was commonly served at gatherings after memorial services. However, don’t let the name fool you—this pie is an absolute delight any time of the year!

🏆 Fun Fact: Did you know raisin pie was a staple in pioneer households because dried fruit was more accessible than fresh fruit during colder months?

History and Popularity of Raisin Pie Recipe

The origins of raisin pie date back to the 18th and 19th centuries, when dried fruits were a kitchen staple. Back then, fresh fruit was scarce in winter, so raisins became a go-to ingredient for sweet treats. As a result, many classic American and European recipes, like mincemeat pie and plum pudding, relied on dried fruit for flavor and texture.

The Amish and Mennonite communities popularized raisin pie in the United States, making it a symbol of hospitality. Today, it remains a beloved dessert in many regions, especially during holidays, church gatherings, and nostalgic family meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re still wondering whether you should try making raisin pie, here’s why you won’t regret it:

Simple Ingredients – You likely already have most of them in your pantry.
Rich and Flavorful – The sticky-sweet filling combined with warm spices makes it irresistible.
Comfort Food at Its Best – This is homestyle baking, just like grandma used to make.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy weekend, raisin pie always hits the spot.

🍽️ Pro Tip: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra decadent experience!

Ingredients for the Perfect Raisin Pie Recipe

To make the best raisin pie, you’ll need a mix of staple pantry ingredients and a few flavor boosters. Let’s break it down:

Essential Ingredients and Their Role

🍂 Want a more intense flavor? Try soaking the raisins in rum or orange juice instead of water for extra depth!

Ingredient Substitutes and Dietary Modifications

If you have dietary restrictions, don’t worry! You can tweak this recipe to fit your needs:

🥥 Dairy-Free? Use coconut oil instead of butter.
🌿 Vegan? Swap out butter for a vegan alternative and use a dairy-free pie crust.
🌾 Gluten-Free? Use a gluten-free pie crust and substitute cornstarch with tapioca starch.
🍯 Refined Sugar-Free? Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Raisin Pie Recipe

Now, let’s get baking! Here’s how to make a raisin pie from scratch:

Preparing the Raisin Filling

1️⃣ Soak the Raisins:

• In a medium saucepan, add raisins and water.
• Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5 minutes until the raisins plump up.

2️⃣ Add the Sweeteners & Spices:

• Stir in brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
• Let the mixture simmer for another 2 minutes.

3️⃣ Thicken the Mixture:

• In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry.
• Pour the slurry into the raisin mixture, stirring constantly.
• Cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens.

4️⃣ Finish with Butter & Lemon Juice:

• Remove from heat and stir in butter and lemon juice for a glossy, rich texture.

🔥 Pro Tip: Let the filling cool for at least 10 minutes before adding it to the crust to prevent a soggy bottom!

Making the Perfect Pie Crust

If you’re making your own pie crust, here’s a quick guide:

Mix – Combine flour, salt, and cold butter in a bowl.
Cut in Butter – Use a pastry cutter or fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Add Ice Water – Slowly mix in ice-cold water until the dough comes together.
Chill – Wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes before rolling.

🥧 Shortcut: If you’re short on time, a store-bought pie crust works just fine!

Assembling and Baking the Raisin Pie Recipe

Now that our filling is ready and the pie crust is prepped, it’s time for the fun part—assembling and baking!

Rolling Out the Pie Crust

1️⃣ Flour Your Surface: Sprinkle flour on your work surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking.
2️⃣ Roll It Evenly: Roll out your chilled dough into a 12-inch circle (for a 9-inch pie dish).
3️⃣ Transfer with Care: Gently place the crust into your pie dish, pressing it lightly against the sides.
4️⃣ Trim & Chill: Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges and chill the crust for 10 minutes while you prep the top.

🥧 Pro Tip: Keep the dough cold to get that flaky, buttery texture in every bite!

Filling the Pie & Adding the Top Crust

1️⃣ Pour the Raisin Filling: Once cooled slightly, pour the thickened raisin filling into the pie crust.
2️⃣ Prepare the Top Crust: You can either:

• Full top crust: Roll out another round of dough, place it on top, and seal the edges.
• Lattice crust: Cut the top crust into strips and weave a lattice pattern.
• Vented crust: Use a full crust but cut small slits to allow steam to escape.
  3️⃣ Seal & Crimp: Pinch the edges together with your fingers or a fork.
  4️⃣ Egg Wash for Shine: Brush the top with a beaten egg for a golden, glossy finish.

🔥 Extra Touch: Sprinkle a little sugar and cinnamon on top before baking for a beautiful finish!

Baking the Pie to Perfection

Temperature & Time:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

How to Know It’s Done:
The crust is crispy and golden.
The filling is bubbling through the vents.
The kitchen smells like heaven.

📌 Pro Tip: If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil or a pie shield halfway through baking.

Common Problems with Raisin Pie Recipe

Even expert bakers run into issues. Here’s how to fix common raisin pie problems:

Why Is My Filling Too Runny?

Possible Causes:
Not enough cornstarch.
Didn’t let it simmer long enough.
Didn’t let the pie cool completely before slicing.

✅ Solution:

• Use 2-3 tablespoons of cornstarch to thicken properly.
• Simmer the filling until thick before adding it to the crust.
• Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before cutting.

🏆 Remember: A hot pie will always look runny—patience is key!

How to Prevent a Soggy Bottom

Possible Causes:
Filling was too hot when added.
Pie crust was too thin.
Oven temperature was too low.

✅ Solution:

• Always let the filling cool slightly before adding it.
• Roll the crust to ¼ inch thickness for structure.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for proper crisping.

🍽️ Bonus Tip: Placing the pie on the lowest oven rack helps cook the bottom crust evenly!

Overcoming a Bitter or Overly Sweet Taste

Possible Causes:
Too much sugar or spices.
Low-quality or old raisins.
No acidity to balance the sweetness.

✅ Solution:

• Reduce sugar by ¼ cup if you prefer less sweetness.
• Use fresh, high-quality raisins for the best flavor.
• Add 1 tbsp of lemon juice or a pinch of salt to balance the taste.

🎯 Pro Tip: Soaking raisins in orange juice or rum enhances the flavor without making it too sweet.

Variations of Raisin Pie Recipe

Want to mix things up? Here are some creative twists on the classic recipe:

Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie vs. Modern Twists

Old-Fashioned – Classic raisin filling, buttery crust, and warm spices.
Spiced Modern Twist – Add cardamom, ginger, or cloves for extra depth.
Chocolate Lover’s Version – Mix in chocolate chips for a decadent treat.
Nutty Surprise – Stir in walnuts or pecans for added crunch.

Vegan and Gluten-Free Alternatives

🥥 Vegan Option:

• Use coconut oil instead of butter.
• Make a vegan pie crust with plant-based butter.

🌾 Gluten-Free Option:

• Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust.
• Substitute cornstarch with tapioca starch.

🍏 Extra Tip: Try mixing raisins with dried cranberries or apples for a unique twist!

Best Ways to Serve and Enjoy Raisin Pie Recipe

Now that your pie is baked to perfection, let’s talk about serving it right!

Perfect Pairings: Drinks and Sides

🥛 Classic Choice: Serve with cold milk or hot coffee.
🍦 Indulgent: Pair with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.
🍯 Extra Sweetness: Drizzle honey or caramel sauce over the top.

🍽️ Pro Tip: Warm your slice for 15 seconds in the microwave before serving for the best texture!

How to Present Raisin Pie for Special Occasions

🎉 Thanksgiving: Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
🎄 Christmas: Dust with powdered sugar for a festive look.
🎂 Birthday Dessert: Serve with a side of chocolate sauce or candied nuts.

✨ Fancy it up: Use mini tart pans to create individual raisin pies for guests!

Nutritional Breakdown of Raisin Pie Recipe

Wondering about the nutritional value of your delicious raisin pie? While this is definitely a treat, it also has some surprising health benefits—thanks to the fiber and natural sugars in raisins!

Calories, Carbohydrates, and Sugar Content

Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional value per slice (based on an 8-slice pie):

📌 Health Tip: Want to reduce the sugar? Swap half the sugar for maple syrup or honey for a more natural alternative!

Health Benefits of Raisins in Baking

Raisins aren’t just sweet little gems—they pack some nutritional benefits too!

🍇 Rich in Antioxidants – Helps protect your cells from damage.
💪 Good for Digestion – Loaded with fiber, keeping your gut happy.
⚡ Natural Energy Boost – The natural sugars in raisins provide quick energy.
🦴 Bone Health – Contains calcium and boron, essential for strong bones.

🔥 Fun Fact: Raisins have been called “nature’s candy” because they’re naturally sweet without added sugar!

Storage and Reheating Tips

How to Store Raisin Pie for Freshness

Short-Term Storage (1-2 Days):

• Keep the pie at room temperature in an airtight container.
• If your kitchen is warm, store in the fridge to keep it fresh longer.

Long-Term Storage (Up to 3 Months):

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

🥧 Pro Tip: Label your pie with the freezing date to keep track of freshness!

Best Reheating Methods Without Ruining Texture

Want that fresh-baked taste again? Here’s how to reheat raisin pie properly:

🔥 Oven (Best Method):

• Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and warm for 10-15 minutes.

⚡ Microwave (Quick Fix):

• Heat individual slices for 15-20 seconds.
• Add a scoop of ice cream for extra indulgence!

❌ Avoid microwaving too long—it makes the crust soggy!

Conclusion :

So, there you have it—the ultimate raisin pie recipe! Whether you love the classic old-fashioned taste or want to try some modern twists, this pie is a must-bake for any dessert lover.

Key Takeaways and Encouragement to Try the Recipe

Simple to Make – With pantry staples, you can bake this anytime.
Sweet and Nostalgic – Perfect for family gatherings and holidays.
Customizable – Make it vegan, gluten-free, or extra indulgent.
Perfectly Balanced – Not too sweet, not too tart—just right.

🏆 Final Pro Tip: Serve your slice with whipped cream, ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel for the ultimate dessert experience!

Now, it’s your turn! Have you ever tried raisin pie before? What’s your favorite way to enjoy it? Let us know in the comments! 🍇🥧👇

🥧 Love classic, old-fashioned desserts? Here are more comforting treats to try:

• Oatmeal Raisin Chocolate Chip Cookies – The Ultimate Guide – A chewy, sweet, and chocolatey twist on a classic favorite.
• Apple Cider Donuts – A Fall Treat You Can’t Resist – Perfectly spiced and coated in cinnamon sugar, ideal for cozy moments.
• Peach Crumble Recipe – The Easiest and Tastiest Dessert Ever – A warm, buttery dessert with juicy peaches and a crisp topping.

Frequently Asked Questions About Raisin Pie Recipe

What is a coffin pie?

A coffin pie is an old-fashioned type of meat pie with a thick, crusty shell. In medieval times, “coffin” (meaning “box” or “container”) referred to the hard pastry that encased the filling. Unlike modern pies, the crust was often inedible and used mainly as a baking vessel to preserve meats and fillings. Today, the concept of coffin pies lives on in savory meat pies like chicken pot pie or steak and kidney pie.

What is the famous pie at Dollywood?

The most famous pie at Dollywood is the 25-pound apple pie served at the Granny Ogle’s Ham ‘n’ Beans restaurant. This massive dessert is made in a cast iron skillet and features a thick, buttery crust filled with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples. It’s one of Dollywood’s most iconic treats, and visitors can buy the whole pie or enjoy it by the slice with a scoop of ice cream! 🍏🥧

What is the oldest pie in the world?

The oldest known pie dates back to ancient Egypt, over 4,000 years ago! These early pies were savory, made with a flour-and-water crust filled with honey and nuts. The Romans later adapted pie-making, creating meat-filled pastries, and the tradition spread throughout Europe. By the Middle Ages, pies had become a staple in England, leading to the sweet and savory pies we know today.

🏺 Fun Fact: Archeologists even found depictions of pies in ancient Egyptian tombs, showing how long people have loved this delicious dish!

Where did raisin pie come from?

Raisin pie has deep roots in Amish and Mennonite traditions. It was especially popular in Pennsylvania Dutch communities, where it was sometimes called “funeral pie” because it was commonly served at post-funeral gatherings. The pie’s popularity grew because raisins were easy to store and available year-round, making them a perfect filling for cold-weather desserts.

Today, raisin pie remains a beloved traditional dessert, especially in parts of the U.S., Canada, and Germany, where Amish and Mennonite communities continue to pass down the recipe through generations.

🍇 Pro Tip: If you love classic flavors, try soaking your raisins in rum or orange juice before baking for a richer taste!