Raisin Pie Recipe

Raisin Pie Recipe

Historical Background:
Raisin pie is a delicious and nostalgic dessert that has a long and rich history. In the early days, raisins were a popular ingredient in pies due to their availability and natural sweetness. This classic pie has been enjoyed by generations, and its timeless taste continues to delight pie lovers to this day.

Fun Facts:
1. The origins of raisin pie can be traced back to the United Kingdom, where raisins have long been used in traditional British desserts.
2. Raisin pie gained popularity in America during the colonial era when British settlers brought their recipes and culinary traditions with them.
3. Raisin pie was a particularly popular choice during times when fresh fruits were scarce or during winter months when fresh produce was limited.
4. Raisin pie is often associated with the holiday season and is a popular dessert choice for Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations.

Now, let's dive into the recipe for this delightful Raisin Pie:

Ingredients:
- 2 cups raisins
- 1 cup water
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 recipe of your favorite rich pastry dough (or store-bought if preferred)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a medium saucepan, combine the raisins and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes until the raisins are plump and tender.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the simmering raisins, stirring constantly until the filling thickens and becomes glossy.

4. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the lemon juice, butter, and vanilla extract. Set the filling aside to cool.

5. Roll out your rich pastry dough on a lightly floured surface until it is slightly larger than your pie pan. Line the pie pan with the pastry dough, pressing it gently into the pan's bottom and sides.

6. Pour the cooled raisin filling into the pastry-lined pie pan, spreading it evenly.

7. Roll out the remaining pastry dough to create a round to cover the pie. Place the pastry round on top of the filling and crimp the edges of the pie using your fingers or a fork to seal it.

8. Cut a few slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking. You can also create decorative shapes with excess pastry dough and place them on top for added visual appeal.

9. Brush the top crust with the beaten egg wash to give the pie a golden and glossy finish.

10. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips, then place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes until the crust turns a light golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

11. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack before serving. This will ensure that the filling sets properly.

12. Serve the raisin pie warm or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
- Apple Raisin Pie: Add a layer of thinly sliced apples to the raisin filling for an irresistible combination of flavors.
- Maple Raisin Pie: Substitute some of the sugar with maple syrup and add a hint of cinnamon for a unique twist on the classic raisin pie.
- Pecan Raisin Pie: Incorporate chopped pecans into the raisin filling for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

Enjoy making and savoring this luscious Raisin Pie recipe. It's a true classic that will surely satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you wanting more.