If you’re looking for a truly unique dessert that sparks curiosity and delights the taste buds, Grandma’s Pickle Pie Recipe is an absolute must-try. This unexpectedly wonderful pie combines tangy pickles with a sweet and creamy custard filling, all nestled in a flaky crust. It’s a beloved family classic that surprises your palate in the best way possible — a perfect blend of sweet, sour, and a hint of spice that turns dessert time into a memorable event. Whether you’re serving guests or craving something different, this pie will quickly become a conversation starter and a cherished favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Grandma’s Pickle Pie Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in balancing the flavors and textures, from the crispness of the pie crust to the creamy sweetness of the filling and the unmistakable zing of pickles. Here’s what you’ll need to create this magical dessert:
- Pie crust: Choose a store-bought or homemade crust for a flaky, buttery base that holds everything together perfectly.
- Chopped pickles (2 cups): Dill or sweet pickles both work wonderfully, lending that signature tangy crunch.
- Sugar (1 cup): Adds the perfect amount of sweetness to balance the tartness from the pickles.
- Large eggs (3): These bind the filling and give it a rich, custard-like texture.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Contributes creaminess and a subtle tang, enhancing the overall depth of flavor.
- All-purpose flour (1 tablespoon): Helps set the filling without making it heavy.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Introduces a warm, sweet aroma that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances and brightens all the flavors.
- Ground black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle spicy kick that gives this pie its unique twist.
How to Make Grandma’s Pickle Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that once your pie is ready to bake, the oven is perfectly hot to give the crust a golden, flaky finish. Meanwhile, have your pie crust ready in a pie dish—whether homemade or store-bought, this will be the sturdy vessel for your luscious filling.
Step 2: Whisk the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, sour cream, flour, vanilla extract, salt, and black pepper until you have a smooth, well-incorporated mixture. This step is where the filling gains its creamy texture and balanced flavors. Take your time here; smooth and silky is the goal.
Step 3: Fold in the Pickles
Gently fold the chopped pickles into the creamy filling. The pickles should be evenly distributed throughout to give every bite that delightful contrast of tangy crunch against the sweet custard. This is what makes Grandma’s Pickle Pie Recipe so uniquely delicious.
Step 4: Pour and Smooth
Pour the pickle-infused mixture into your prepared pie crust. Use a spatula to smooth the surface, giving the pie an inviting, even look. This helps the pie bake uniformly and develop that beautiful, light golden top.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your pie in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly browned. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges look firm and the center jiggles just slightly when you gently shake the pan.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This cooling period is essential, as it lets the filling firm up for clean slices and full flavor. Once cooled, it’s ready to delight your family and friends—get ready for surprised smiles and delighted faces!
How to Serve Grandma’s Pickle Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes this pie from intriguing to irresistible. For an extra touch, sprinkle some freshly chopped dill or a pinch of ground black pepper on top to echo the flavors inside. These small touches elevate the presentation and enhance the complex taste.
Side Dishes
Serve this pie alongside a fresh green salad with light vinaigrette to contrast its richness, or a cup of hot, strong coffee for a satisfying balance of flavors. It also pairs wonderfully with a cheese plate that complements the tangy notes of the pie.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the pie into small squares and serve as part of a dessert platter. You can also spoon the filling over a graham cracker crust in individual ramekins for a deconstructed treat. No matter how you present it, Grandma’s Pickle Pie Recipe is sure to impress and surprise every guest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. The flavors mellow beautifully over time, making leftovers just as good, if not better, the next day.
Freezing
This pie isn’t the best candidate for freezing because of its creamy filling. However, you can freeze the pie crust ahead of time, baking the pie fresh for the best taste and texture.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy the pie warm, reheat slices gently in a low oven or microwave, just until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as that can change the texture of the creamy filling.
FAQs
Can I use sweet pickles instead of dill in Grandma’s Pickle Pie Recipe?
Absolutely! Sweet pickles will provide a milder tang and a touch of extra sweetness, creating a slightly different but equally delightful flavor profile. It’s all about personal preference and experimenting with what you like best.
Is it necessary to use sour cream in the filling?
Sour cream adds a creamy texture and subtle tang that balances the sweetness and acidity of the pickles. You could try substituting with Greek yogurt, but it might alter the texture and flavor slightly.
Can I make the pie crust from scratch?
Definitely! Homemade pie crust adds a wonderful buttery flavor and flaky texture. If you have a favorite recipe, go for it – otherwise, store-bought crusts are a convenient and perfectly tasty option.
How do I know when the pie is fully baked?
The filling should be set but still have a slight jiggle in the center when you gently shake the pie. The top will be lightly browned, and the edges will look firm. This ensures a smooth, custardy filling without being runny.
Will the black pepper make the pie spicy?
Not at all! The small amount of ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth that enhances the flavors without making the pie spicy. It’s a secret ingredient that takes the pie from good to unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
Grandma’s Pickle Pie Recipe may sound unusual at first, but once you taste it, you’ll see why it’s a family favorite treasure worth sharing. Its delightful marriage of sweet and tangy flavors creates an irresistibly memorable experience that brings smiles and happy memories to any table. Don’t hesitate to give this one a try — it might just become your new favorite unexpected dessert!
Print
Grandma’s Pickle Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Grandma’s Pickle Pie is a unique and nostalgic dessert combining the tangy crunch of chopped pickles with a sweet, creamy custard filling. Encased in a flaky pie crust and baked to perfection, this pie offers a surprising twist that balances sweetness and tanginess for an unforgettable treat.
Ingredients
Pie Base
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Filling
- 2 cups chopped pickles (dill or sweet, depending on preference)
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the pie evenly.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, sour cream, flour, vanilla extract, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a creamy custard base.
- Add Pickles: Gently fold the chopped pickles into the custard mixture so they are evenly distributed without breaking down their texture.
- Prepare Pie Crust: Place your pie crust into a pie dish, ensuring it is fitted properly, then pour the filling into the crust, smoothing out the top with a spatula for even baking.
- Bake the Pie: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the custard filling is set and the top is lightly browned, indicating it’s cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This rest time helps the filling to firm up and develop flavors.
Notes
- You can choose dill pickles for a tangier flavor or sweet pickles for a milder, sweeter taste.
- Ensure the pie is cooled completely before slicing to prevent the custard from running.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
- This recipe yields 8 servings, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
