Mama used to make the best Kentucky Sawdust Pie I ever tasted. I can still remember the way the rich, gooey filling would ooze out as I cut into that flaky golden crust. Honestly, it’s one of my all-time favorite desserts from my childhood in the Bluegrass State. There’s just something so comforting and nostalgic about that classic Kentucky Sawdust Pie flavor. I’d beg Mama to make it for every family gathering, and she’d always oblige with that warm, knowing smile. To this day, the smell of cinnamon and brown sugar takes me right back to her cozy kitchen.
Why This Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
You know, Kentucky Sawdust Pie isn’t your average pie. It’s got a unique, delectable flavor that you just can’t find anywhere else. The secret is in the special blend of spices and the way the cornmeal and butter create that signature texture. Once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked! This recipe is the real deal – it’s the one Mama used to make, and it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
The Secret Behind Perfect Kentucky Sawdust Pie
What sets this Kentucky Sawdust Pie apart is the incredible balance of flavors and textures. The filling is rich and gooey, with a subtle crunch from the cornmeal that gives it that signature “sawdust” look. And the buttery, flaky crust? Absolute perfection. It’s the kind of pie that makes your taste buds do a little happy dance with every single bite. Trust me, your friends and family are going to be begging you to make this again and again.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Pie crust – Either store-bought or your favorite homemade recipe
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Cornmeal – For that classic Kentucky Sawdust Pie texture
- Butter
- Eggs
- Milk
- Vanilla extract
- Cinnamon
- Salt
Step-by-Step Kentucky Sawdust Pie Instructions
Preparing Your Kentucky Sawdust Pie
This Kentucky Sawdust Pie is actually pretty simple to make, and it comes together in about an hour and a half from start to finish. You’ll need a standard 9-inch pie plate, a mixing bowl, and a few basic kitchen tools. Once you’ve got everything gathered, let’s get started on creating this delicious Southern classic!
1- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch pie plate. Roll out your pie crust and gently press it into the prepared plate, crimping the edges as desired.
2- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cornmeal, butter, eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
3- Pour the filling mixture into the prepared pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
4- Bake for 45-55 minutes, until the center is just set and the edges are golden brown. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5- Allow the Kentucky Sawdust Pie to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
6- Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired. Dig in and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
The key to perfect Kentucky Sawdust Pie is in the texture of the filling. Be sure not to overmix the batter, as that can make the cornmeal get too mushy. And keep an eye on the crust towards the end of baking – you want it to be golden brown, but not burnt.
Another pro tip? Let the pie cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling set up nicely and ensures you get perfect, gooey slices every time. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Serving and Storing Your Kentucky Sawdust Pie
Perfect Pairings for Kentucky Sawdust Pie
Kentucky Sawdust Pie is the ultimate comfort food dessert. It’s delicious on its own, but also pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of sweetened whipped cream. For a more indulgent treat, try it with a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of chopped pecans.
As for beverages, a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk are both classic choices that really let the flavors of the pie shine. Or for a special occasion, a small pour of bourbon or a splash of brandy can take this Kentucky Sawdust Pie to the next level.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Kentucky Sawdust Pie will keep, covered, at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to serve, just let it come to room temperature or warm it up in the oven for a few minutes.
This pie also freezes really well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Kentucky Sawdust Pie is the perfect make-ahead dessert for holidays, potlucks, or any special occasion.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Kentucky Sawdust Pie
Creative Kentucky Sawdust Pie Variations
While the classic version is truly hard to beat, there are lots of fun ways to put your own spin on Kentucky Sawdust Pie. Try adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for extra crunch. You could also swirl in a layer of sweetened cream cheese or top it with a streusel topping.
For a seasonal twist, use pumpkin or sweet potato puree in place of some of the milk. Or fold in a handful of dried cranberries or chopped apples for a festive fall flavor. The possibilities are endless when it comes to riffing on this Southern staple.
Making Kentucky Sawdust Pie Diet-Friendly
Believe it or not, you can even make a healthier version of Kentucky Sawdust Pie! To make it gluten-free, simply use your favorite gluten-free pie crust recipe. For a low-carb adaptation, substitute the cornmeal with ground almonds or coconut flour.
And if you’re vegan, you can use plant-based milk and egg replacer in the filling. Top it with a dollop of coconut whipped cream for an indulgent dairy-free twist. No matter your dietary needs, there’s a way to enjoy the comforting flavors of this Kentucky classic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a store-bought pie crust for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! A good quality store-bought crust will work just fine. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for pre-baking before adding the filling.
Q: How long does Kentucky Sawdust Pie need to bake?
A: The pie should bake for 45-55 minutes, until the center is just set and the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent over-browning.
Q: Can I make Kentucky Sawdust Pie ahead of time?
A: Yes, this pie freezes beautifully! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Q: What’s the best way to serve Kentucky Sawdust Pie?
A: I love to top a warm slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of sweetened whipped cream. It’s also delicious on its own at room temperature.
Q: Help! My Kentucky Sawdust Pie is soggy in the middle. What did I do wrong?
A: A soggy center is usually a sign that the pie was underbaked. Make sure to bake it until the center is just set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. You can also try reducing the amount of milk in the filling slightly.
Kentucky Sawdust Pie
- Total Time: 65
- Yield: 8
Description
Indulge in the rich, nutty goodness of this vintage Kentucky Sawdust Pie recipe – a cozy, old-fashioned dessert that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Ingredients
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 3-4 tablespoons ice water
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
1. – Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. – In a food processor, pulse the flour and salt together. Add the chilled butter cubes and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the ice water 1 tablespoon at a time, pulsing until the dough just begins to hold together.
3. – Form the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. – In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and cinnamon until well combined.
5. – Roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle and transfer to a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp the edges as desired.
6. – Spread the chopped pecans evenly over the bottom of the pie crust. Pour the egg mixture over the pecans.
7. – Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and the crust is golden brown.
8. – Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
For a richer flavor, try using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of bourbon to the filling. Store leftover pie in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 45
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Southern
Conclusion
There’s just something so comforting and nostalgic about a homemade Kentucky Sawdust Pie. It’s the ultimate Southern dessert – rich, gooey, and full of warm spices that’ll have your taste buds doing cartwheels. This recipe is the real deal, just like Mama used to make.
I know you’re going to love it just as much as I do. So what are you waiting for? Preheat that oven and get ready to bake up a little slice of Kentucky heaven. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out – I always love hearing from fellow Kentucky Sawdust Pie enthusiasts!
