Loraine'S Pie
Loraine's Pie offers a sweet, crunchy treat with a caramel-like filling flavored with nutmeg, perfect for dessert lovers and family gatherings alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil water, sugar, and cream of tartar for 5 minutes.
- While boiling, add one Ritz cracker at a time into the boiling mixture.
- Do not stir; pour the mixture into an unbaked two-crust pie shell.
- Sprinkle with nutmeg and dot with softened butter.
- Cover with the top crust and bake at 425°F for approximately 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of crushed Ritz crackers and graham cracker crumbs. If you don't have cream of tartar, lemon juice or white vinegar can be used as a substitute. Make sure to watch the boiling mixture closely; it can bubble up. To enhance the nutmeg's flavor, freshly grate it if possible.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Loraine's Pie warm or at room temperature, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or fruit platter. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Cheddar And Vidalia Onion Casserole for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help maintain the pie's crust texture and prevent it from becoming soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Loraine'S Pie contains roughly 3190 calories, with 59g protein, 365g carbohydrates, and 166g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (153% of the Daily Value), protein (119% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (73% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2878mg per serving (125% 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?
Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust can save you time and effort. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for pre-baking if necessary, especially if it's a frozen crust. This will ensure a crisp texture when baked with the filling.
What can I substitute for Ritz crackers?
If you don’t have Ritz crackers, saltine crackers or any buttery cracker will work well. You can also use crushed graham crackers for a different flavor and texture. Just adjust the sugar in your filling if the alternative is less sweet.
How can I tell when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling slightly at the edges. You can insert a knife in the center; if it comes out clean, the pie is ready. Keep an eye on the crust to prevent over-browning.
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).