Raisin Cream Pie is a timeless dessert that blends the natural sweetness of raisins with a smooth, creamy custard filling. Topped with a fluffy meringue, this pie is perfect for special occasions or as a nostalgic treat. The raisins are softened in water to create a tender texture, which complements the velvety filling. This dessert delivers a delightful balance of sweetness and creaminess, making it a beloved addition to any pie collection.
Join our Vintage Recipe Facebook Group to discuss and find “new” old recipes to enjoy.
Links to find other recipes:
Raisin Cream Pie
Food History
Raisin pies have a long history in American and European baking, often associated with frugality and the use of pantry staples. They were especially popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when raisins were a common ingredient in baked goods due to their long shelf life.
This pie variation combines the classic raisin pie concept with a rich cream filling, elevating it to a more decadent dessert. Meringue-topped pies became trendy in the early to mid-1900s as electric mixers made whipping egg whites easier. Today, Raisin Cream Pie is a cherished recipe that recalls simpler times and traditional baking techniques.
Explore more of our Pie Crust Recipes to continue your baking journey!
Timeline
- 1700s-1800s: Raisins are imported to the Americas and incorporated into various baked goods.
- Late 1800s: Raisin pies become popular in both American and British kitchens.
- 1900s: Cream pies with meringue toppings gain widespread popularity.
- Today: Raisin Cream Pie remains a nostalgic dessert, enjoyed by those who appreciate vintage recipes.
Recipe Discussion
This pie starts with a simple custard base made by heating egg yolks and milk to create a smooth, creamy texture. Sugar, flour, and butter are added for sweetness and richness, while raisins provide bursts of flavor. The raisins are soaked before being stirred into the filling, ensuring they are tender and plump.
The pie is finished with a meringue topping, made by beating egg whites to stiff peaks and browning it in the oven. The contrast between the creamy custard and airy meringue makes this dessert irresistible.
For more vintage sweets, check out our Pie Recipes and Dessert Recipes—they’re perfect for adding a touch of retro charm to your table!
Preparation Tips
Here are some tips to ensure success with this recipe:
- Soak raisins properly: Soak them in a small amount of water until they are soft and plump. This step is essential for texture.
- Don’t boil the custard: Heat the egg yolks and milk mixture slowly to avoid curdling.
- Use room-temperature eggs: This makes it easier to whip the whites for the meringue.
- Spread meringue evenly: Ensure it touches the edges of the crust to seal in the filling and prevent shrinking.
- Bake until golden: Keep a close eye on the meringue to avoid over-browning.
Recommended Kitchen Products
The links below lead to top-rated products on Amazon—if you use our links, we can save more recipes.
- Pie dish: A sturdy ceramic or glass pie dish ensures even baking.
- Double boiler: Ideal for gently heating the custard mixture without scorching.
- Electric hand mixer: Perfect for whipping the meringue to stiff peaks.
- Pastry brush: Useful for spreading the meringue evenly across the pie.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this classic pie with complementary dishes for a well-rounded dessert table:
- Serve with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.
- Offer alongside other vintage pies like lemon meringue or chocolate cream for variety.
- Sprinkle a dash of nutmeg or cinnamon on the meringue before baking for added flavor.
- Enjoy as an after-dinner dessert with a glass of dessert wine.
A Nostalgic Slice of Comfort
Raisin Cream Pie is a delightful blend of creamy, fruity, and airy textures. It’s a dessert that brings back memories of home-cooked meals and cherished family gatherings. Whether you’re rediscovering this vintage recipe or sharing it with a new generation, it’s sure to become a favorite.
Start Your Recipe Box
- Start your recipe box or your family or friends. View New and Vintage Recipe Boxes
- View Recipe Cards and Templates
- View Recipe Card Protectors and Sleeves
Vintage Goodies
- Vintage Kitchenware on Etsy
- Vintage Recipes on Amazon
- Vintage Cookbooks on eBay
- Vintage Cookbooks on Etsy
Raisin Cream Pie Recipe
Raisin Cream Pie
A classic pie featuring a creamy raisin custard filling topped with fluffy meringue. A nostalgic dessert perfect for family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups milk
- 2 eggs, separated
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 tablespoons flour, heaped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ⅓ cupraisins, soaked in small amount of water
Instructions
- Whip egg yolks in milk and heat to scalding stage.
- Do not boil.
- Add sugar, flour, melted butter.
- Cook until thickened, stirring constantly.
- When it begins to thicken, stir in [raising].
- When thick, add ½ teaspoon vanilla and pour into baked pie crust, top with meringue made from beaten egg yolks and brown.