Prune Pie
A luscious prune custard pie with a rich filling and tender crust, perfect for dessert or teatime, appealing to fruit lovers and those seeking a comforting treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the prunes until soft.
- Add sugar to the cooked prunes to taste.
- Seed and mash the prunes thoroughly.
- Spread the mashed prunes just to cover the bottom of the unbaked crust.
- Beat the eggs in a bowl, then add sugar, butter, flour, salt, milk, and vanilla, and mix well to make custard.
- Pour the custard into the prepared crust with the prunes.
- Bake at 400°F for a few minutes until the custard begins to set.
- Lower the temperature to 200°F and continue baking until the custard is fully set, about one hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg when mashing the prunes. If you want to substitute prunes, dried figs can work in a pinch, though the flavor will differ. Ensure that your milk is at room temperature to help the custard mix smoothly. To avoid overbaking, start checking for doneness 10 minutes before the recommended time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Prune Pie slightly warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness. A cup of coffee or tea complements this dessert perfectly, making it a delightful end to any meal. For an alternative treat, consider trying Apple Cake From Gram Sommer's for a different flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Prune Pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm the entire pie in a low oven at 200°F until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Prune Pie contains roughly 559 calories, with 9g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value), iron (19% of the Daily Value), and calcium (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 569mg per serving (25% 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 fresh plums instead of prunes?
Fresh plums can be used, but they will need to be cooked down more than prunes, as they have a higher water content. You'll want to ensure they are soft and sweet before mashing them. Adjust the sugar accordingly, as fresh plums are less sweet than prunes.
What can I do if the custard doesn't set?
If the custard doesn't set after baking, it may need more time in the oven. Keep it in for an additional 10-15 minutes and check for doneness. If it still doesn't set, ensure your oven temperature is accurate, as variations can affect baking times.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance. Bake it and let it cool completely before refrigerating. It will taste even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out.
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).