Granny'S Caramel Pie
A rich caramel pie with a fluffy meringue topping, combining sweet caramelized sugar, creamy filling, and light egg whites, perfect for dessert lovers seeking a nostalgic treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the eggs in a mixing bowl.
- Add flour and 1 cup of sugar to the eggs and mix well.
- Stir in the scalded milk.
- Cook the mixture for a few minutes until slightly thickened, then set aside.
- Caramelize 1/2 cup sugar in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add part of the cooked mixture to the caramelized sugar and stir well.
- Pour the caramel mixture back into the remaining cooked mixture and combine.
- Continue cooking until the filling is thick enough for a pie.
- In a separate bowl, beat 2 egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Add 3 tablespoons of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla to the egg whites and beat until combined.
- Pour the meringue on top of the pie filling.
- Bake the pie at 325°F (160°C) until the meringue is golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you want to make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure the egg whites are at room temperature for better volume when beating. Monitor the caramel closely to prevent burning, as it can turn bitter quickly. This pie can be served chilled or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the pie and serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with Banana Nut Pancakes for a delightful brunch spread. You can also sprinkle some crushed nuts on top for added texture and flavor, enhancing the overall presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover caramel pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Avoid reheating the whole pie, as it may affect the texture of the meringue. For best taste, enjoy it cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Granny'S Caramel Pie contains roughly 502 calories, with 8g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of iron (18% of the Daily Value), protein (16% of the Daily Value), and calcium (11% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a store-bought pie crust for this recipe?
Yes, using a pre-made pie crust can save time. Just ensure it's baked according to package instructions before adding the caramel filling. This allows for a delicious and convenient dessert without compromising flavor. If using a frozen crust, let it thaw completely before baking.
How do I prevent the meringue from weeping?
To prevent weeping, ensure your meringue is beaten to stiff peaks and the filling is hot when you spread the meringue on top. This helps to create a seal and keeps moisture from forming underneath. Additionally, avoiding any contact with the egg yolks during separation can help maintain the meringue's stability.
What should I do if the caramel hardens?
If the caramel hardens, you can gently reheat it over low heat until it melts again. Stir in a small amount of water or cream to help achieve a smoother consistency. However, be cautious not to overheat, as this can cause the caramel to burn.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).