Kentucky Sawdust Pie

Introduction

Kentucky Sawdust Pie is one of those delightful Southern desserts that always impresses with its surprising simplicity and incredible flavor. I first tried making this pie as part of a family gathering, and it quickly became a hit. The combination of coconut, pecans, and graham cracker crumbs baked into a buttery crust offers a sweet yet not overpowering flavor that everyone loved. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual dinner, this pie is the perfect treat to serve. It’s easy to prepare and always garners compliments, making it a standout dessert at any occasion. What’s even better is how adaptable it is – it pairs beautifully with whipped cream or fresh fruit like bananas. The dessert is a great way to showcase Southern flavors and will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household, just like it did in mine!

Ingredients

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
• 1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 1½ cups chopped pecans
• 7 large egg whites (unbeaten)
• Sliced bananas (for serving)
• Whipped cream (for serving)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures that the pie bakes evenly and perfectly golden.
2. Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and chopped pecans. Stir the ingredients together until they are evenly mixed. The texture will be dry, but don’t worry, the egg whites will bring it all together.
3. Add egg whites: Crack 7 large eggs, separating the whites into a separate bowl. You will not need the yolks for this recipe. Pour the unbeaten egg whites into the dry mixture and stir by hand until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. The mixture will be thick, sticky, and a bit difficult to mix, but that’s normal.
4. Fill the pie crust: Spoon the mixture into your unbaked pie crust. Use a spoon to spread it evenly, ensuring it fills the crust entirely for a uniform bake.
5. Bake the pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown top and a filling that’s set but slightly gooey in the center. Be careful not to overbake – it should still jiggle a little when you gently shake it.
6. Cool and serve: After baking, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Once it has cooled down to room temperature, slice it into wedges. Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a few slices of fresh bananas for added flavor and texture.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: 340
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 125mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 41g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 25g
• Protein: 4g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve slices of Kentucky Sawdust Pie with a generous topping of whipped cream for a creamy contrast to the crunchy filling.
• Add freshly sliced bananas on top of each slice to enhance the flavors of the pie with a natural sweetness.
• For extra flair, drizzle with caramel sauce or sprinkle with extra chopped pecans for a crunchy, nutty finish.
• Kentucky Sawdust Pie is best served at room temperature but can be enjoyed warm or chilled for a different experience.

Additional Tips

1. Ensure egg whites are beaten well: While you don’t need to beat the egg whites into stiff peaks, make sure they are well mixed and fully incorporated into the dry ingredients to achieve the right texture.
2. Use fresh ingredients: Fresh coconut and pecans will give the pie a better flavor and texture.
3. Don’t overbake the pie: The filling should be slightly gooey in the center. Overbaking will make it dry and less enjoyable.
4. Prepare in advance: You can prepare the pie in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the bananas and whipped cream when you’re ready to serve.
5. Try a homemade crust: While store-bought pie crust is convenient, a homemade crust will elevate the flavors even more and make the pie extra special.

Recipe Variations

• Add chocolate chips: For a different twist, mix in ½ cup of chocolate chips to the filling for a rich, indulgent touch.
• Use other nuts: Swap the pecans for walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts if you want to try different flavors.
• Coconut cream variation: Instead of using egg whites, you could try using coconut cream for a richer texture, though this will change the consistency.
• Banana Cream Pie Twist: Mix in 1-2 sliced bananas into the filling for a creamy, banana-infused flavor in every bite.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the coconut and pecans.

Serving Suggestions

• Kentucky Sawdust Pie pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting dessert experience.
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
• For a Southern-inspired meal, pair this pie with classic dishes like fried chicken, collard greens, or cornbread for a balanced meal that’s both savory and sweet.
• For special occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas, top the pie with a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Kentucky Sawdust Pie can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow the pie to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to serve, allow it to thaw at room temperature for a few hours.
• Storage: Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to keep it covered to preserve its freshness.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make Kentucky Sawdust Pie ahead of time?
   Yes, this pie can be made a day or two in advance. Just keep it refrigerated and add the whipped cream and bananas just before serving.
2. What can I substitute for egg whites?
   If you need a substitute, you can try using aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas), which works similarly to egg whites.
3. Can I use unsweetened coconut?
   Sweetened shredded coconut provides the right balance of sweetness for this pie. If you use unsweetened coconut, you may need to adjust the sugar content.
4. What other nuts can I use besides pecans?
   Walnuts, almonds, and even macadamia nuts make great alternatives to pecans in this pie.
5. How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
   You can blind bake the crust for about 10 minutes before filling it to help prevent it from becoming soggy.
6. Is there a gluten-free version of this pie?
   Yes, simply use a gluten-free graham cracker crust and ensure that your other ingredients are gluten-free.
7. Can I freeze Kentucky Sawdust Pie?
   Yes, you can freeze the pie for up to 2 months. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.
8. How do I know when the pie is done baking?
   The pie is done when the top is golden brown and the center is slightly gooey. It should jiggle slightly when you shake it.
9. Can I add more sugar?
   You can add more sugar to suit your taste, but the recipe is designed to have a balanced sweetness with the other ingredients.
10. Is there a non-dairy option for this pie?
    You can use coconut cream instead of egg whites for a dairy-free option, and opt for a non-dairy whipped cream topping.

Conclusion

Kentucky Sawdust Pie is a true Southern treasure that combines the comforting flavors of coconut, pecans, and graham crackers into a delightful dessert. Its simple ingredients make it easy to prepare, yet the taste is rich and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this pie will quickly become a beloved recipe in your dessert repertoire. With its perfect balance of texture and flavor, Kentucky Sawdust Pie is a classic dessert that captures the essence of Southern comfort food in every bite.