Introduction
Transforming simple ingredients into a show-stopping dessert is easier than you think! This recipe for Grandma’s Famous Raspberry Cream Pie is a testament to that. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this creamy, dreamy, and delightfully tart pie that’s bursting with fresh raspberry flavor. It’s the perfect ending to any meal, and surprisingly simple to make.
Why This Works
This recipe works because it’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart. The creamy filling perfectly complements the juicy raspberries, and the buttery crust adds the perfect touch of richness. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser—everyone loves a good slice of raspberry cream pie! It’s also surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers.
Key Ingredients
- 🍓 2 cups fresh raspberries
- 🥧 1 (9-inch) pre-made pie crust
- 🥛 2 cups heavy cream
- 🥄 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 🥚 2 large eggs
- 🍋 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 💧 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 🧈 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Raspberries: Gently wash and pat dry the raspberries. Set aside about 1 cup for topping, and gently mash the remaining raspberries with a fork.
2️⃣ Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, powdered sugar, eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
3️⃣ Combine and Bake: Stir in the mashed raspberries and melted butter. Pour this mixture into the pre-made pie crust.
4️⃣ Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden brown. A slight jiggle in the center is okay.
5️⃣ Cool and Chill: Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before refrigerating for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to fully set.
6️⃣ Garnish and Serve: Once chilled, garnish the top with the reserved fresh raspberries. Slice and serve!
Handy Tips
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t overbake the pie; it’s better to slightly underbake it than overbake it.
- If you don’t have fresh raspberries, you can use frozen raspberries (thawed and drained) but the filling might be slightly watery.
Heat Control
Baking at 350°F (175°C) ensures the crust is golden and the filling sets perfectly without scorching. Overbaking will dry out the filling and make the crust tough. Underbaking will result in a runny filling. Keep a close eye on it during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Crunch Factor
The crunch comes from the buttery pie crust. For an extra-crunchy crust, you could brush the edges with a little extra melted butter before baking.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a shortcut, use a store-bought pie crust.
- Add a tablespoon of raspberry liqueur to the filling for an adult twist.
- For a smoother filling, strain the mashed raspberries through a fine-mesh sieve before adding them to the cream mixture.
Storage Tips
Store leftover pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This pie is perfect for gifting! Present it in a pretty pie carrier or box, adorned with a ribbon. You could also add a small handwritten card with the recipe.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Lemon Raspberry Swirl: Add a swirl of lemon curd to the filling for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
🌟 Chocolate Raspberry Delight: Add 1/4 cup of melted dark chocolate to the filling.
🌟 Almond Raspberry Dream: Add 1/4 cup of almond extract to the filling for a nutty twist.
🌟 Coconut Raspberry Paradise: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical twist.
Troubleshooting
- Soggy Bottom: Ensure your pie crust is fully baked before adding the filling, or use a pre-baked crust.
- Runny Filling: If the filling is too runny, bake it for a few more minutes. Alternatively, use less liquid ingredients next time.
- Cracked Crust: This is usually due to overbaking or a sudden temperature change.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen raspberries? Yes, but thaw and drain them completely before using.
- Can I make this pie ahead of time? Yes, it’s even better after it has chilled in the refrigerator for a few hours.
- What can I substitute for heavy cream? You could try using half-and-half, but the filling might be slightly less rich.
- Is this pie gluten-free? Not unless you use a gluten-free pie crust.
Conclusion
This Grandma’s Famous Raspberry Cream Pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It’s the perfect combination of sweet, tart, and creamy, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do! Share your creations with us on Ratemyrecipes.com – we can’t wait to see your beautiful pies!