Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie

Name: Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 8 slices
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed); 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water; 2 cups seedless raisins; 1 1/2 cups water; 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

75 min 8 slices Medium

All Recipes

A nostalgic dessert featuring sweet raisins in a buttery, flaky crust.

Prep

30 min

Cook

45 min

Total

75 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie is a delightful dessert that brings back memories of simpler times. This pie is filled with plump, sweet raisins, perfectly spiced and enveloped in a golden, flaky crust. It's a comforting treat that pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The origins of this pie are humble, often found in the kitchens of grandmothers across Canada. With its sweet, rich filling, this pie has a unique charm that has stood the test of time. Perfect for holidays or a special Sunday dinner, this pie is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Instructions

Prepare the pie crust

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing just until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Pro tip: Chilling the dough helps prevent it from shrinking during baking.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Cook the raisin filling

In a saucepan, combine raisins and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat and simmer for 5 minutes. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add to the raisins and continue to cook until thickened. Stir in lemon juice and butter, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Pro tip: Stir continuously to prevent the mixture from sticking to the pan.

Roll out the dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to fit a 9-inch (23 cm) pie plate. Transfer the dough to the pie plate and trim the edges.

Pro tip: Roll the dough from the centre outward to maintain an even thickness.

Assemble the pie

Pour the cooled raisin filling into the prepared pie crust. Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

Pro tip: Brush the top crust with a little milk or egg wash for a golden finish.

Bake the pie

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool on a wire rack before serving.

Pro tip: Place a baking sheet under the pie to catch any drips during baking.

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Tips & Tricks

Use seedless raisins for the best texture.
Chill the dough before rolling for easier handling.
Ensure the filling is not too wet to prevent a soggy crust.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is tarte raisin?

Tarte raisin is a pie filled with a sweet raisin mixture, traditionally spiced and baked in a flaky crust.

How do I make tarte aux raisins secs?

Follow the Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie recipe for a step-by-step guide to making tarte aux raisins secs.

Can I use other dried fruits in this pie?

Yes, you can substitute or mix raisins with other dried fruits like currants or chopped apricots for a different flavour.

Do I need to soak the raisins first?

No, the raisins are cooked directly in water to plump them up and create the filling.

How can I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Ensure the filling is not too wet and bake the pie until the crust is golden and crisp.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Old-Fashioned Raisin Pie warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The pie can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavours to meld beautifully. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat slices in the oven for a few minutes to enjoy them at their best.