Skip to main content

Sour Cream and Raisin Pie

Mrs. Rowe attributed this recipe to her friend Mrs. John Martin, a Mennonite from Harrisonburg. The custard is slightly grainy, which is normal for this old-fashioned pie, and its pleasant, refreshing flavor is unusual to the modern palate. For plumper raisins, bring them to a boil in a small amount of water, then lower the heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Drain the raisins thoroughly before proceeding with the recipe.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    makes one 9-inch pie

Ingredients

1/2 recipe Plain Pie Pastry (page 17) or Vinegar Pie Crust (page 19), prebaked
3/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 eggs, beaten
1 1/2 cups sour cream
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/4 cups raisins
1/8 cup sweetened flaked coconut, for sprinkling

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    In a double boiler, stir the sugar, cornstarch, and salt together, then add the eggs, sour cream, lemon juice, and baking soda. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 35 minutes, until thick. Gently stir in the raisins.

    Step 2

    Pour the filling into a shallow container, lay plastic wrap directly on the surface, and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

    Step 3

    Pour the filling into the crust and sprinkle with the coconut. Chill for several hours or overnight before slicing. Serve cold.

Mrs. Rowe's Little Book of Southern Pies
Read More
Like carrot farro salad and chicken paella.
A crowd-friendly, crisp-edged chicken and vegetable rice from chef José Andrés.
Like miso-peanut hibachi chicken and spring orzotto.
Keep this easy frittata recipe on hand for quick breakfasts, impressive brunches, and fridge clean-out meals.
The magic of this hibachi chicken recipe comes from a combination of miso and peanut butter and how it beautifully caramelizes when it hits the grill.
Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.
Filberts, goobers, scaly bark nuts: Explore the world beyond almonds in this guide.
Chicken breasts reach their full potential in this spicy, saucy stir-fry with blistered green beans.