Are you looking for a unique and delicious dessert to impress your friends and family? Look no further than Kentucky Sawdust Pie! This Southern classic is a sweet and nutty treat that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
The origins of Sawdust Pie are somewhat of a mystery, but it is believed to have originated in Kentucky in the early 1900s. The name comes from the pie’s resemblance to sawdust, due to its crumbly texture. Despite its name, Sawdust Pie is anything but dry – it is a rich and decadent dessert that is perfect for special occasions or just a cozy night in.
There are many variations of the recipe, but the basic ingredients include graham cracker crumbs, sugar, butter, eggs, and pecans. Some recipes also call for coconut flakes or chocolate chips. The pie is typically served with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. With its unique name and delicious flavor, Kentucky Sawdust Pie is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it!
Ingredients
- 7 large egg whites
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 cups sweetened flaked coconut
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped
- 1 9-inch deep-dish pie crust
- Whipped cream and sliced bananas (for serving)
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
3. Gradually add the sugar while continuing to beat until the mixture is glossy and holds stiff peaks.
4. Gently fold in the sweetened flaked coconut and chopped pecans until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the filling is set.
7. Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing.
8. Serve slices of the pie topped with whipped cream and sliced bananas, if desired.
Enjoy this delightful Kentucky Sawdust Pie with its crunchy texture and sweet flavor!
Serving Suggestions
Kentucky Sawdust Pie is a delicious dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to make your pie even more enjoyable:
- Whipped Cream: Serve your pie with a dollop of whipped cream on top. This will add a creamy texture to the pie and balance out the sweetness.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some caramel sauce on top of the pie to add a sweet and buttery flavor. This will also give your pie a beautiful presentation.
- Ice Cream: Serve your pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The coldness of the ice cream will complement the warm pie and create a delicious contrast of temperatures.
- Banana Slices: Top your pie with sliced bananas for a fruity twist. This will add a fresh and light flavor to the pie.
- Coffee: Enjoy your pie with a cup of coffee for a perfect combination. The bitterness of the coffee will balance out the sweetness of the pie and create a delicious harmony of flavors.
Kentucky Sawdust Pie is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Try out these serving suggestions or come up with your own to make your pie even more delicious.
Storage and Shelf Life
Once you have made your delicious Kentucky Sawdust Pie, you may be wondering how to store it properly to keep it fresh for as long as possible. Here are some tips to help you out:
- Room Temperature: If you plan on consuming your pie within a day or two, you can store it at room temperature. However, make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
- Refrigeration: If you want to keep your pie for longer, you can store it in the refrigerator. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the fridge. It should last for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: If you want to store your pie for even longer, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and place it in the freezer. It should last for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, simply place it in the fridge overnight.
When it comes to the shelf life of Kentucky Sawdust Pie, it’s important to note that it contains eggs and dairy, so it should be consumed within a reasonable amount of time. As mentioned earlier, it should last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator and up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
Overall, Kentucky Sawdust Pie is a delicious dessert that can be enjoyed for several days if stored properly. By following these simple storage tips, you can ensure that your pie stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible.
Variations and Substitutions
Nut Varieties
Kentucky Sawdust Pie is a delicious dessert recipe that can be customized to suit your taste buds. One way to do this is by using different nuts in the recipe. While pecans are the traditional nut used in this recipe, you can use other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts to add a unique flavor to the pie. You can also use a combination of nuts to create a more complex flavor.
Here is a table that shows the different nut varieties you can use in the Kentucky Sawdust Pie recipe:
| Nut Variety | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Pecans | Sweet, buttery |
| Walnuts | Earthy, bitter |
| Almonds | Nutty, slightly sweet |
| Hazelnuts | Rich, slightly sweet |
Dietary Adjustments
If you have dietary restrictions, you can still enjoy Kentucky Sawdust Pie by making some simple substitutions. Here are some ideas:
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free pie crust or make a crustless pie by baking the filling in a greased pie dish.
- Dairy-free: Use coconut oil instead of butter, and coconut cream instead of heavy cream. You can also use a dairy-free whipped cream alternative for the topping.
- Vegan: Use vegan butter and coconut cream instead of heavy cream. You can also use a flax egg instead of a regular egg. To make a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Lower sugar: Use a sugar substitute like Stevia or Xylitol instead of sugar. You can also reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe by half and add a tablespoon of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
By making these simple substitutions, you can enjoy a delicious Kentucky Sawdust Pie that fits your dietary needs.
Pairing with Beverages
Kentucky Sawdust Pie is a sweet and nutty dessert that pairs well with a variety of beverages. Whether you prefer something hot or cold, there is a drink that will complement the flavors of this delicious pie.
Hot Beverages
If you’re looking for a warm and comforting drink to enjoy with your Kentucky Sawdust Pie, try a cup of coffee or hot cocoa. The rich, bold flavors of coffee will enhance the nuttiness of the pie, while the sweetness of hot cocoa will balance out the coconut and pecans.
Cold Beverages
On a hot summer day, a cold beverage is the perfect accompaniment to this sweet treat. Try a glass of ice-cold milk or a refreshing iced tea. The creaminess of milk complements the richness of the pie, while the subtle sweetness of iced tea provides a refreshing contrast to the nutty flavors.
Alcoholic Beverages
For a more adult pairing, Kentucky Sawdust Pie can be enjoyed with a variety of alcoholic beverages. A glass of bourbon or whiskey is the perfect complement to this southern dessert. The smoky, oaky flavors of the liquor enhance the nuttiness of the pie and provide a warm, comforting finish.
Overall, Kentucky Sawdust Pie is a versatile dessert that pairs well with a variety of beverages. Whether you prefer something hot or cold, sweet or bold, there is a drink that will enhance the flavors of this delicious pie.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for a classic Sawdust Pie?
To make a classic Sawdust Pie, you will need ingredients such as graham cracker crumbs, sugar, chopped pecans, flaked coconut, butter, vanilla extract, and egg whites. Some recipes may also include corn syrup or flour. The exact measurements and ingredients may vary depending on the recipe you are using.
How do I make a Sawdust Pie similar to the one at Patti’s?
To make a Sawdust Pie similar to the one at Patti’s, you can use the recipe provided by Kentucky Tourism. Mix the first five ingredients together and stir by hand. Pour into an unbaked pie shell and bake in a preheated 325-degree oven until glossy and set, about 25 to 30 minutes. Do not overbake, and serve warm with sliced bananas and whipped cream on top.
Can you share a simple step-by-step guide for making Sawdust Pie?
Sure! Here’s a simple step-by-step guide for making Sawdust Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture becomes glossy and holds stiff peaks.
- Gently fold in the sweetened flaked coconut and chopped pecans until well combined.
- Add the graham cracker crumbs, butter, and vanilla extract and mix well.
- Spoon the mixture into an unbaked pie shell.
- Bake for about 30 minutes at 325°F (162°C), or until it looks done all over the top.
- Let the pie cool before serving.
What’s the history behind Sawdust Pie and how did it get its name?
The history of Sawdust Pie is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in the Southern United States. The pie gets its name from the texture of the filling, which resembles sawdust. Some people also believe that the name comes from the use of graham cracker crumbs in the filling, which look like sawdust.
Is there a version of Sawdust Pie that includes chocolate chips?
Yes, there is a version of Sawdust Pie that includes chocolate chips. To make this version, you can add chocolate chips to the filling mixture before spooning it into the pie shell. The chocolate chips will melt and create a gooey, chocolatey filling that pairs well with the nutty flavors of the pecans and coconut.
Are there any unique variations of Sawdust Pie from well-known restaurants?
Yes, there are several unique variations of Sawdust Pie from well-known restaurants. For example, Patti’s 1880’s Settlement in Grand Rivers, Kentucky, serves a version of Sawdust Pie with sliced bananas and whipped cream on top. Another restaurant, Southern Plate, adds streusel to the top of the pie for a crunchy texture. Some restaurants also use different types of nuts or sweeteners in their Sawdust Pie recipes.
