Indulge in the rich, nutty, and caramel-flavored goodness of Kentucky Sawdust Pie—a Southern dessert that’s as intriguing as its name. With its delightful combination of shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and graham cracker crumbs, this pie offers a unique texture and flavor profile that will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients:
- 1 unbaked pie shell
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the pie bakes evenly and achieves the perfect golden-brown color.
2. Prepare the Pie Filling:
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened shredded coconut, chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and brown sugar. Stir these ingredients together until they are well mixed. This combination of ingredients forms the “sawdust” mixture, which gives the pie its distinctive name and texture.
- Add the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and beaten eggs. Once the wet ingredients are fully combined, pour them into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix everything together until you have a well-blended, thick filling.
3. Assemble the Pie:
- Fill the Pie Shell: Place the unbaked pie shell on a baking sheet to catch any spills. Pour the prepared filling into the pie shell, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. The filling should come close to the top of the crust but not overflow.
4. Bake the Pie:
- Bake in the Preheated Oven: Carefully transfer the baking sheet with the pie to the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is a deep golden-brown color. The center of the pie should no longer be jiggly, and a toothpick inserted into the middle should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool the Pie: Once the pie is fully baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack. Let the pie cool completely to room temperature before slicing to ensure that the filling sets properly and is easier to slice.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice and Serve: Once the pie has cooled, slice it into wedges and serve. The pie is rich and sweet, so smaller slices may be appropriate. You can serve Kentucky Sawdust Pie on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Optional Garnishes: For added flair, you can garnish each slice with a sprinkle of additional shredded coconut, a few chopped pecans, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Tips for Success:
- Pie Shell: You can use a store-bought pie crust for convenience, but a homemade pie crust will add an extra touch of flavor and flakiness to the dessert.
- Pecans: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the filling can enhance their flavor and add a deeper, nuttier taste to the pie.
- Consistency: The filling of this pie is meant to be dense and chewy, thanks to the combination of coconut, pecans, and graham cracker crumbs. If the pie appears slightly undercooked in the center after baking, that’s normal, as it will continue to set as it cools.
- Storage: Store any leftover pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The pie’s flavors will continue to meld together, making it even more delicious the next day.
The Allure of Kentucky Sawdust Pie
Kentucky Sawdust Pie is one of those Southern desserts that is both comforting and indulgent. Its name may be peculiar, but the taste is anything but ordinary. The combination of sweetened coconut, crunchy pecans, and graham cracker crumbs creates a texture that is unlike any other pie. The sugars and butter melt together during baking, creating a caramel-like filling that is rich and sweet, with a slight chewiness that is irresistible.
This pie is perfect for those who love desserts that are rich and full of flavor. The pecans add a delightful crunch, while the coconut provides a subtle sweetness that balances the caramel flavors from the sugars. The graham cracker crumbs not only add to the texture but also bring a mild, buttery flavor that complements the rest of the ingredients perfectly.
Whether you’re serving this pie at a holiday gathering, a potluck, or simply as a treat for your family, Kentucky Sawdust Pie is sure to be a hit. Its unique texture and flavors make it stand out among other desserts, and it’s easy enough to prepare, making it a great go-to recipe when you want something special without too much fuss.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for a dessert that’s both rich and comforting, give this Kentucky Sawdust Pie a try. You might just find that it becomes one of your favorite pies to bake—and to eat!
