Mother'S Prune Pie
Mother's Prune Pie combines tender prunes and crunchy nuts in a sweet filling, baked to perfection in a flaky pastry shell, perfect for a comforting dessert or teatime treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook prunes with a little water until soft.
- Mash the cooked prunes fine and add the chopped nuts.
- Beat the egg whites until stiff, then gradually add the sugar and beat well again.
- Fold the prune and nut mixture into the whipped egg whites.
- Pour the filling into the baked pastry shell.
- Bake very slowly for about 25 minutes.
- Serve with a generous dollop of real whipped cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the prune mixture. If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute the chopped nuts with crushed graham crackers for added texture. Ensure the prunes are well-cooked and mashed for a smoother filling. To enhance the sweetness, you might also try using brown sugar instead of white granulated sugar.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful pie with a generous dollop of real whipped cream for added richness. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of fresh fruit, like strawberries or peaches. This pie is an excellent dessert for gatherings, and its unique flavor can also complement coffee or tea during afternoon gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid overheating to maintain the texture of the meringue topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mother'S Prune Pie contains roughly 334 calories, with 16g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. At about 334 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 dried prunes instead of fresh ones for this recipe?
Yes, you can use dried prunes! Just soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes to soften before cooking. This will help achieve the desired texture for your filling. Drain them well before mashing to avoid excess moisture.
What type of nuts work best in this pie?
Chopped walnuts or pecans are excellent choices for this pie, as they complement the sweetness of the prunes nicely. However, feel free to experiment with your favorite nuts or even seeds for a different flavor profile.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator. If you want to serve it warm, reheat gently in the oven before serving. This can be a great time-saver for special occasions!
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).