Raisin Pie is a classic old-fashioned dessert that brings warmth, comfort, and nostalgia with every bite. Known for its sweet, spiced, and chewy raisin filling encased in a flaky, buttery crust, this pie has been a favorite in American and European households for generations. Whether you’re making it for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or just a cozy weekend treat, this easy raisin pie recipe will become a staple in your baking collection.
Ingredients Notes
This easy raisin pie recipe uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.
For the Pie Crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 6-8 tbsp ice water
For the Raisin Pie Filling:
- 2 cups raisins (golden or regular)
- 1 ½ cups water
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make Easy Raisin Pie
Follow these step-by-step instructions for the best homemade raisin pie:
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough holds together.
- Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Raisin Filling
- In a saucepan, combine raisins and water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Add the sugar mixture to the saucepan, stirring continuously until thickened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, butter, and vanilla extract. Let the filling cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out one pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Trim the edges.
- Pour the raisin filling into the crust, spreading it evenly.
- Roll out the second pie crust and place it on top. Seal the edges and cut a few slits for ventilation.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
- Brush the top crust with egg wash (1 beaten egg + 1 tbsp milk) for a golden brown finish.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
- Let the pie cool for at least 1 hour before slicing.
Why You’ll Love This Raisin Pie Recipe
1. A Nostalgic Classic with a Rich Flavor
Raisin pie is a timeless dessert that brings back fond memories of home-baked goodness. With its sweet and slightly tangy raisin filling encased in a buttery, flaky crust, it’s a treat that has been passed down through generations. Whether you grew up enjoying this pie at family gatherings or are trying it for the first time, its comforting flavors will win you over.
2. Perfect Balance of Sweetness and Warm Spices
The naturally sweet raisins, combined with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, create a warm, cozy flavor profile. The spices enhance the depth of the pie, making each bite a delightful experience. If you love fall-inspired flavors or spiced desserts, this pie will be a perfect addition to your baking repertoire.
3. Easy to Make with Simple Ingredients
This recipe requires pantry staples like raisins, sugar, flour, butter, and a few spices—ingredients that are readily available. You don’t need any fancy tools or special baking skills to achieve a delicious, bakery-quality pie.
4. A Unique and Underrated Dessert
While fruit pies like apple or cherry are common, raisin pie offers something different. Its distinct flavor and texture make it a conversation starter at parties and family gatherings. If you’re looking for a dessert that stands out, this is the one to try!
5. Great for Holidays and Special Occasions
Raisin pie is often served during holidays, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, making it a festive and traditional choice. Its warm, spiced filling pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making it an indulgent treat for any special event.
6. Customizable to Your Taste
You can personalize the filling by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture or soaking the raisins in rum or orange juice for an extra flavor boost. Whether you prefer a sweeter version or a tart contrast, this recipe is versatile enough to accommodate different tastes.
7. A Long-Lasting Dessert
Unlike cream-based pies that spoil quickly, raisin pie stays fresh for days, making it ideal for meal prepping or gifting. It can be stored at room temperature for short-term enjoyment or refrigerated for extended freshness.
Storage Options
Properly storing your homemade raisin pie will keep it fresh and delicious for days.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover pie covered in plastic wrap or an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the fridge.
- To serve, warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Freezing for Later
- Unbaked Pie: Assemble the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time.
- Baked Pie: Allow the pie to cool completely before freezing. Wrap in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations and Substitutions
Want to customize your Raisin Pie? Try these fun variations:
Crust Variations
✔ Graham Cracker Crust – Swap the traditional crust for a graham cracker base for a unique twist.
✔ Nutty Crust – Add ¼ cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the pie crust for added crunch.
Filling Variations
✔ Rum Raisin Pie – Soak the raisins in ¼ cup dark rum for an extra layer of flavor.
✔ Apple Raisin Pie – Add ½ cup chopped apples to the filling for a fruity contrast.
✔ Golden Raisin Pie – Use golden raisins for a slightly different flavor profile.
Dairy-Free & Vegan Options
✔ Vegan Pie Crust – Use plant-based butter and a flaxseed egg wash.
✔ Dairy-Free Filling – Substitute butter with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance the flavor of your Raisin Pie with these delicious serving ideas:
- With a Scoop of Ice Cream – Vanilla, cinnamon, or butter pecan ice cream pairs beautifully.
- Drizzle with Caramel Sauce – A warm drizzle of caramel adds extra indulgence.
- Topped with Whipped Cream – A dollop of homemade or store-bought whipped cream balances the flavors.
- Sprinkle with Powdered Sugar – For a simple, elegant finish.
Conclusion
This easy Raisin Pie recipe brings together the warm, comforting flavors of spiced raisins and a flaky, golden crust. Whether you’re baking for a special holiday, a nostalgic family treat, or just satisfying your sweet tooth, this pie is simple, delicious, and timeless.
With make-ahead options, easy storage, and endless variations, you can customize this pie to suit any occasion. So, grab your rolling pin and bake a classic Raisin Pie that’s guaranteed to impress!