Are you craving a comforting, creamy dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this delightful raisin cream pie! This recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, with a creamy filling that melts in your mouth. Forget store-bought pies; this homemade version is far superior and surprisingly simple to whip up, making it perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros seeking a quick and delicious dessert. Let's get started on this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 (3.4 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 cup raisins (golden raisins recommended but any kind works!)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream, cold
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
For the Topping (Optional):
- Whipped cream
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions:
Making the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until evenly moistened.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool completely on a wire rack. This step allows for a firmer, crispier crust.
Preparing the Filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and creamy. This should take about 2 minutes of vigorous whisking.
- Stir in the raisins and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. This is crucial for a light and airy filling.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, preserving those lovely whipped cream peaks.
Assembling the Pie:
- Pour the raisin cream filling into the cooled pie crust.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set completely. This ensures a creamy, stable filling that won't be runny.
Adding the Finishing Touches:
- Before serving, top with whipped cream and chopped nuts, if desired. A sprinkle of cinnamon adds another layer of warm spice!
Tips for the Best Raisin Cream Pie:
- Use good quality ingredients: The better your ingredients, the better your pie will taste.
- Don't overmix the filling: Overmixing can lead to a dense, less airy filling.
- Chill thoroughly: Allowing the pie to chill for several hours ensures a firm and set filling.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings, such as chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or a caramel drizzle.
Variations:
- Chocolate Raisin Cream Pie: Add ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the pudding mix for a decadent chocolate twist.
- Spiced Raisin Cream Pie: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves to the pudding mix for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Peanut Butter Raisin Cream Pie: Stir in ½ cup of creamy peanut butter to the pudding mixture for a delicious peanut butter and raisin combination.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 18-22g
- Saturated Fat: 10-12g
- Cholesterol: 40-50mg
- Sodium: 150-200mg
- Carbohydrates: 45-55g
- Sugar: 25-35g
- Protein: 4-6g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Enjoy this delicious and easy homemade raisin cream pie recipe! It's a perfect dessert for any occasion, and it's sure to impress your friends and family. Happy baking!