If you’re a lover of old-fashioned Southern desserts, you’re in for a treat with this Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe. Boasting a chewy, golden crust packed with coconut, pecans, and sweet graham cracker crumbs, this pie is pure comfort in every bite. Despite its quirky name, there’s nothing gritty about it—the “sawdust” actually refers to the pie’s gloriously crumbly, nutty texture. It’s indulgent, delightfully simple, and destined to become a family favorite for anyone with a sweet tooth and an appreciation for no-fuss baking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the things I love most about this Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe is how everything you need is straightforward and pantry friendly. Every ingredient brings its own magic, whether it’s the rich nuttiness or the hint of toasted coconut. Together, they create a dessert with flavor and texture you won’t soon forget.
- Unbaked 9-inch deep-dish pie crust: The buttery vessel that holds all the tasty goodness and bakes up perfectly crisp.
- Graham cracker crumbs (1 1/2 cups): These bring a sweet, honeyed warmth and give the filling its signature “sawdust” crumb.
- Sweetened shredded coconut (1 1/2 cups): Adds chews and tropical sweetness with every bite.
- Chopped pecans (1 1/2 cups): For a buttery, nutty crunch that makes each slice extra satisfying.
- Granulated sugar (1 1/2 cups): Provides essential sweetness and helps bind the mixture as it bakes.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Just enough to balance out the sweetness and highlight those nutty flavors.
- Large egg whites (5): The secret binding agent, bringing everything together without making it too heavy.
- Vanilla extract (1 1/2 teaspoons): Gives the pie a cozy, aromatic depth that ties all the ingredients together beautifully.
- Whipped cream and sliced bananas (optional): Classic Southern toppings that lift this pie to celebration status!
How to Make Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), setting the stage for baking magic. Make sure your deep-dish pie crust is unbaked and ready in a pie pan—no need for par-baking here. This recipe is all about simplicity.
Step 2: Mix Up the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sweetened coconut, chopped pecans, sugar, and salt. This dry blend forms the heart of the Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe, giving it its distinct chewy-crunchy contrast. Use a spatula or your hands to mix these well so the nuts and coconut are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Beat the Egg Whites Lightly
Crack your egg whites into a separate bowl. Using a whisk or hand mixer, beat just until frothy—no need to go for firm peaks. Over-beating can make the pie too airy when what we want is that wonderful chewy density, so stop when you see bubbles.
Step 4: Combine With Vanilla
Stir the vanilla extract into the egg whites, giving that subtle aroma a head start before you assemble the filling. Pour this mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until every crumb, nut, and shred of coconut is moistened and glistening. The mixture should be thick and cohesive but not runny.
Step 5: Fill and Bake
Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, smoothing it out so it’s evenly distributed. Pop your pie into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re going for a deep golden brown color on top and a set (but not dry) center. The aroma will let you know just when it’s ready to come out.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
After baking, allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature. This step is key—the pie continues to set as it cools. Slice and serve with heaps of whipped cream and banana slices if you’re feeling extra festive!
How to Serve Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Few things complement the rich, nutty flavor like a fluffy swirl of homemade whipped cream and a scattering of freshly sliced bananas. The cream cools the sweetness, while banana adds a nostalgic Southern touch. You can even dust with extra graham cracker crumbs or toasted coconut for extra flair!
Side Dishes
A slice of Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe is just the beginning. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a tart berry compote, balancing the pie’s sweetness with a bit of tang or coolness. If you’re hosting a gathering, a pot of robust coffee or strong black tea rounds out the experience perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the pie into bars for a picnic treat, or layering small slices into mason jars with layers of whipped cream for a portable parfait. Mini tart pans or ramekins make this recipe adorable and personal—little gifts of Southern comfort for your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pie can be kept covered at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for about five days. For best texture, use plastic wrap or foil to keep it moist. Nobody wants a dry pie, so keep it snug in the fridge for longer storage.
Freezing
The Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe freezes surprisingly well! Once completely cooled, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Store in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll keep its flavor and texture for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
To bring leftover slices back to life, pop them in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes or until just warmed through. Be careful not to overdo it—you want to re-crisp the crust without drying out that luscious filling.
FAQs
Why is it called Kentucky Sawdust Pie?
The quirky name comes from its crumbly, nutty texture, not the ingredients—no actual sawdust here! This is a classic Southern treat that’s all about nostalgia and homey comfort.
Can I use other nuts besides pecans?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can swap in walnuts or even toasted almonds for a different twist. Just keep the amounts the same for best results.
Do I have to use sweetened shredded coconut?
Sweetened coconut is classic and lends that signature chewy sweetness, but you can use unsweetened if you prefer a less sweet dessert. The texture will still be lovely!
What if I only have a regular pie crust, not deep-dish?
You can still make this recipe! Just hold back about a half cup of filling so it doesn’t overflow, or bake the extra in a ramekin for a “baker’s treat.”
Can the Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free graham crackers and a gluten-free pie crust. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s a straightforward swap.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for special occasions, you just have to try this Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe. From the chewy coconut to the crunchy pecans, it’s a true celebration of Southern flavors and down-home comfort. Happy baking!
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Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Kentucky Sawdust Pie is a classic Southern American dessert that combines graham cracker crumbs, coconut, pecans, and sugar in a chewy, sweet filling baked in a pie crust. Despite its name, there’s no sawdust in this pie!
Ingredients
Pie Crust:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch deep-dish pie crust
Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 5 large egg whites
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Serving:
- Whipped cream and sliced bananas for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, coconut, pecans, sugar, and salt.
- Beat Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until frothy. Stir in vanilla.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour egg whites into the dry mixture, stir until well coated.
- Fill Pie Crust: Pour filling into unbaked pie crust, spread evenly.
- Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden and set.
- Cool and Serve: Cool at room temperature. Serve with whipped cream and bananas if desired.
Notes
- Despite the name, there is no sawdust in this pie.
- Do not overbeat egg whites for a dense, chewy filling.
- This rich pie is best served in small slices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 45 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 62 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
