Old English Date Pie
Old English Date Pie offers a rich, sweet filling of dates and coconut, spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves—perfect for cozy gatherings and dessert lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a 9-inch pie pan with pastry.
- Sprinkle sliced dates into the pastry-lined pie pan.
- Combine cream, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, bread crumbs, and vanilla, then beat with a rotary beater until well mixed.
- Pour the mixture over the dates in the pie shell.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes.
- Reduce oven temperature to 300°F (150°C) and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
- During the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded coconut over the pie.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using Medjool dates as they are softer and sweeter. You can substitute half of the cream with evaporated milk for a lighter pie. If you prefer a nutty flavor, add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling. Make sure to let the pie cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Old English Date Pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect dessert for afternoon gatherings. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside light vegetarian recipes to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can enjoy it cold straight from the fridge, as the flavors develop further after chilling.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old English Date Pie contains roughly 527 calories, with 5g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 987mg per serving (43% 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 make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, this pie can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste.
What can I use instead of dates?
If you don't have dates, you can substitute with dried figs or prunes for a similar sweetness and texture. However, adjust the sugar in the recipe accordingly, as these fruits may vary in sweetness.
Is it possible to make this pie gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free pie crust or make a crust from crushed gluten-free cookies mixed with butter. Ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free for a safe and delicious dessert.
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).