Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Filling: In a medium pot, whisk together the brown sugar, cornstarch, and water until the mixture is smooth. Then add in the orange juice, orange zest, and lemon juice along with the raisins. Cook over medium heat until it comes to a bubbling simmer and thickens; this should take about 5 minutes. Let it simmer for 1 additional minute.
Add Walnuts & Cool: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the chopped walnuts. Allow the filling to cool completely.
Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 9-inch pie plate with one crust. Once cooled, pour the raisin mixture into the lined pie crust. Cover with the second crust, sealing the edges tightly, and cut small vents in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Finish & Bake: Brush the top crust with the beaten egg white and lightly sprinkle with granulated sugar. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 to 40 minutes. If the crust browns too quickly, shield it lightly with foil.
Cool & Serve: After baking, let the pie cool for at least 1 hour before slicing to allow the filling to set.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serving raisin pie can be just as delightful as making it. Consider a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for a creamy balance to the pie’s sweetness. Pair it with a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee for an afternoon treat, or serve it as a comforting dessert after dinner with family.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To extend the life of your beautiful raisin pie, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If stored properly, it can last up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the pie, although it’s best to do so unbaked. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake it from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Choose Quality Raisins: Opt for plump, moist raisins for the best flavor and texture.
- Experiment with Citrus: Feel free to swap the orange juice with grapefruit juice for a more complex tartness.
- Seal the Edges Well: Ensuring the edges are well sealed will prevent your delicious filling from leaking during baking.
Creative Twists
There are numerous ways to put your own spin on this raisin pie. For a more autumnal feel, consider adding some ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling. If you want to take it a step further, incorporating apples for a mixed fruit pie can add a delightful twist. You could also try a crumb topping with oats and brown sugar for a deliciously crunchy variation!
Common Questions
How long does it take to prepare the pie?
The entire process will take about 1.5 to 2 hours, including prep time and baking.
Can I substitute other fruits for raisins?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries or apricots can add a different flavor while still keeping the pie delicious.
Is raisin pie gluten-free?
This recipe as it stands is not gluten-free due to the pie crust. However, you can use gluten-free pie crust to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.
How should I reheat leftover pie?
To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute or place the whole pie back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Incorporating raisin pie into your dessert repertoire not only brings a unique flavor to the table but also fosters a delightful baking experience to share with family and friends. Happy baking!
