Funeral pie, also known as raisin pie, weaves together rich history and deep tradition. People often associate it with Pennsylvania Dutch culture, where families have served it at somber gatherings for generations. This beloved dessert has earned its place as a symbol of comfort and care during difficult times. Made with simple yet flavorful ingredients like raisins, sugar, and a buttery crust, it balances practicality with delicious taste. Additionally, its enduring appeal lies in its ability to bring people together with its heartwarming flavor. If you’ve ever wondered, “What is funeral pie made of?” this guide provides everything you need to know, from its essential ingredients to its meaningful and unique backstory.
Table of contents
Ingredients and Instructions
The magic of funeral pie lies in its straightforward ingredients and the care put into making it. Each part, from the plump raisins to the golden crust, plays a role in creating a dessert that is both rich and comforting.
Ingredients List
Here is everything you need to make funeral pie:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Raisins | 2 cups | Seedless raisins work best. |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 cup | Substitute with brown sugar if preferred. |
| Cornstarch | 3 tbsp | Helps thicken the filling. |
| Lemon Juice | 2 tbsp | Adds a tangy contrast to sweetness. |
| Butter | 1 tbsp | Makes the filling smooth and rich. |
| Water | 2 cups | Essential for softening raisins. |
| Pre-made Pie Crust | 2 sheets | Use homemade for a personal touch. |
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Cook the Filling
Start by placing raisins and water in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once it begins to bubble, lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This softens the raisins and brings out their natural sweetness.
Add sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice to the saucepan. Stir constantly to prevent lumps. Cook the mixture until it thickens and turns glossy. Finally, stir in the butter to give it a rich texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust
Roll out one of the pie crusts and gently press it into a 9-inch pie pan. Make sure the crust fits snugly against the pan’s edges. Pour the filling into the crust and spread it evenly.
Take the second crust and lay it over the top. Seal the edges by pressing them together with your fingers or a fork. Cut small slits in the top crust to let steam escape during baking.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on it as the crust turns a beautiful golden brown. Let the pie cool completely before slicing. This allows the filling to set and ensures clean cuts.
Why Is It Called Funeral Pie?
Funeral pie earned its name because people traditionally served it at funerals and wakes. Its practical ingredients made it easy to prepare, transport, and store. During times of grief, friends and neighbors baked this pie to show support and care. Its rich, sweet flavor provided comforting solace during challenging moments.
The use of raisins holds special significance. People often kept raisins in their pantries because they stayed fresh for long periods. This quality made them ideal for baking pies that could be prepared in advance and shared at gatherings.
Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Funeral Pie
Avoiding a Soggy Crust
One common issue with funeral pie is a soggy bottom crust. To prevent this, blind-bake the bottom crust for about 5-7 minutes before adding the filling. This creates a barrier that keeps the filling from soaking into the crust.
Perfecting the Filling
To ensure the filling thickens properly, mix the cornstarch with a small amount of water before adding it to the raisin mixture. This prevents clumps and gives the filling a smooth texture.
Getting Even Browning
Rotate the pie halfway through baking. This ensures the crust browns evenly on all sides.
Variations to Try
Although the classic recipe uses raisins, there are many ways to make funeral pie your own. Here are a few ideas:
- Add Spices: Enhance the flavor with a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, or a hint of cloves for a warm, aromatic twist.
- Incorporate Nuts: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the sweet filling.
- Swap the Raisins: Substitute raisins with dried cranberries, cherries, or a mix of dried fruits for a tangy or colorful variation.
- Try a Crumble Top: Replace the top crust with a crumbly streusel made of butter, sugar, and flour for a golden, crisp texture.
A Glimpse into Its Cultural Significance
Funeral pie is more than just a dessert. It’s a symbol of care, community, and tradition. In Pennsylvania Dutch culture, food often played a key role in bringing people together during life’s milestones. Funeral pie, with its rich flavor and long-lasting ingredients, became a staple at gatherings that celebrated life while mourning loss.
Its popularity spread because it was both practical and meaningful. To learn more about desserts that carry similar cultural importance, check out the origin story of travel cakes.
Funeral Pie and Modern Baking
Today, people cherish funeral pie for its history and unique flavor. Moreover, they enjoy it not only during somber occasions but also as a beloved dish for various events. Whether you bake it for a special gathering or share it with family, you bring a touch of tradition to the table with funeral pie.
For another take on raisin-based pies, don’t miss the fascinating story of Johnny Cash’s favorite pie. His love for this dessert adds a new layer of charm to its legacy.
Baking the Funeral Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie on the middle rack to ensure even heat circulation. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the crust turns a deep golden brown. Keep an eye on the edges of the crust. If they begin to darken too much, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven. Let it cool on a wire rack for at least two hours. Cooling helps the filling to set properly, which makes it easier to slice cleanly without it spilling out.
Serving Funeral Pie
People traditionally serve funeral pie at room temperature or slightly warm. Additionally, they pair its sweet and tangy raisin filling with the flaky, buttery crust to create a perfect combination. For best results, use a sharp knife to cut even portions. Moreover, wipe the knife between slices to keep the edges clean.
To enhance the presentation, you can dust the pie’s top with powdered sugar. Alternatively, serve it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a richer experience. This dessert suits any occasion, whether shared at a family gathering or offered as a comforting gesture.
Pro Tips and Variations
Funeral pie is a versatile dessert that allows for personalization while honoring its traditional roots. Here are tips to perfect your pie and creative variations to try.
Pro Tips
- Prevent a Soggy Crust: Blind-bake the bottom crust for 5–7 minutes before adding the filling. This creates a barrier that prevents the liquid filling from soaking through.
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a splash of vanilla extract to the filling for a subtle, aromatic sweetness.
- Store Properly: Keep leftover funeral pie in an airtight container. It stays fresh at room temperature for two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freeze for Later: Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Creative Variations
- Spiced Filling: Enhance the filling with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves for a warm, festive flavor.
- Mixed Dried Fruits: Swap half the raisins for dried cranberries, cherries, or apricots for a tangy twist.
- Nutty Crust: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crust dough for extra texture and richness.
- Streusel Topping: Replace the top crust with a buttery streusel made from flour, sugar, and butter for a crumbly finish.
FAQs About Funeral Pie
Why is it called funeral pie?
Funeral pie earned its name because it was traditionally served at funeral gatherings, especially in Pennsylvania Dutch communities. Its ingredients, such as raisins, were practical choices since they could be stored for long periods without spoiling. The pie’s comforting sweetness made it a meaningful dish to share during times of mourning.
What is funeral cake made of?
Funeral cake is another traditional dish made with basic pantry ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and spices. Often, it included molasses or dried fruits for added richness. Like funeral pie, it symbolized care and thoughtfulness during gatherings.
What is pie filling made of?
Funeral pie filling is made with simple ingredients: raisins, sugar, water, cornstarch, and lemon juice. These are cooked together to create a thick, glossy filling with a balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
What is the meat in meat pies made of?
Meat pies are filled with savory options like beef, pork, lamb, or chicken. The meat is often mixed with vegetables and herbs to create a hearty filling. While different from funeral pie, both are examples of comforting, traditional dishes that bring people together.
Can funeral pie be made ahead of time?
You can prepare funeral pie in advance without any issue. Its long-lasting filling makes it perfect for baking a day or two before serving. This approach allows the flavors to meld, which enhances its taste.
How should I store funeral pie?
Store funeral pie in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It stays good at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze it following the earlier instructions.
Conclusion
Funeral pie represents more than just a dessert. Moreover, it embodies tradition, community, and comfort that have endured over generations. Specifically, its sweet raisin filling and flaky crust reflect care and connection in every bite. Furthermore, whether baked to honor its history or enjoyed as a treat, funeral pie undeniably adds meaning to any table.
For more baking inspiration, explore this pineapple pie recipe or learn tips for achieving a fruit pie without a soggy bottom. These resources provide additional insights into crafting perfect pies.