No Bake Raisin Sour Cream Pie
Creamy raisin sour cream pie with a tangy lemon flavor, sweet raisins, and crunchy walnuts, perfect for a no-bake dessert that delights with rich textures and bright citrus notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Combine with beaten eggs, sour cream, raisins, grated lemon rind, and lemon juice.
- Cook and stir over hot water until thickened.
- Stir in chopped walnuts.
- Pour into a baked pie shell.
- Sprinkle top with additional grated lemon rind, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother filling, ensure the sour cream is at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a different texture, try using Greek yogurt as a substitute for sour cream. Additionally, soaking the raisins in warm water for 10 minutes can plump them up and enhance their flavor. If you want a nuttier taste, consider using pecans instead of walnuts.
Serving Suggestions
This pie pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a delightful contrast. To elevate the presentation, consider garnishing with fresh lemon slices or mint leaves. It also complements a light salad or a selection of fruit for a balanced dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it chilled, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of No Bake Raisin Sour Cream Pie contains roughly 341 calories, with 6g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value) and iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 977mg per serving (42% 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 different dried fruits instead of raisins?
Absolutely! You can substitute raisins with dried cranberries, apricots, or even chopped dates for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness based on the fruit you choose, as some are sweeter than others.
Is it necessary to cook the filling over hot water?
Cooking the filling over hot water helps to gently thicken it without scrambling the eggs. If you prefer, you can use a double boiler for better heat control, ensuring the mixture thickens evenly while maintaining a smooth texture.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, this pie can be made a day in advance. Just prepare and chill it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Make sure to add any garnishes, like grated lemon rind, just before serving to keep them fresh.
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).