Name: Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 unbaked 9-inch deep-dish pie crust; 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut; 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans; 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1 cup granulated sugar; 6 large egg whites; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Whipped cream; Sliced bananas

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If you’re searching for a surprise showstopper, look no further than the Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe. This beloved Southern dessert captures hearts with its sweet, chewy, and nutty filling, loaded with coconut and pecans, all cradled in a buttery pie crust. The name alone draws curiosity, but every forkful delivers on its promises—rustic charm, bold flavors, and a touch of nostalgia. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a treat bursting with texture and comfort, this pie will have guests raving and sneaking seconds!

Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pie:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch deep-dish pie crust
- 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Serving Suggestions:
- Whipped cream
- Sliced bananas

How to Make Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Let’s set the stage for pie perfection! Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using a store-bought pie crust, let it come to room temperature for easy handling. If homemade, roll it out and gently fit it into your deep-dish pie pan, crimping the edges for that extra-homey touch.

Step 2: Stir Together the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, and sugar. Stir everything with gusto—the combination should look rustic and crumbly, with the nuts and coconut evenly dispersed. This quick step ensures every bite is loaded with goodness.

Step 3: Whisk the Egg Whites and Vanilla

Grab a separate, clean bowl for the egg whites and vanilla extract. Don’t overthink it—lightly beat the egg whites and vanilla together just until frothy. Overbeating can make the pie tough, so stop as soon as you see bubbles and foam forming across the tops. The vanilla should be fragrant at this stage!

Step 4: Mix It All Together

Now, pour your frothy egg white mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir gently but thoroughly, making sure everything’s evenly moistened so your Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe filling bakes up chewy and cohesive. It will look shaggy—perfectly normal!

Step 5: Fill and Bake

Scoop the filling into your unbaked pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Slide it into the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set. You’ll smell toasted nuts and coconut—pure bliss!

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Once done, allow your pie to cool completely on a wire rack. Patience is key! This step sets the filling for neat, clean slices later. Once cool, it’s ready for its big debut.

How to Serve Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe

Garnishes

This pie is a canvas for delicious toppings. A fluffy cloud of whipped cream and some freshly sliced bananas transform it into a diner-worthy dessert. A sprinkle of extra toasted coconut or chopped pecans also adds flair and crunch.

Side Dishes

The Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe shines with a cup of hot coffee, sweet tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. For Southern authenticity, serve with cold milk or mint iced tea, letting the pie’s sweetness play off cool, creamy sips.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the pie into wedges and arrange them on a rustic wooden board for a casual gathering. Or, dress things up with individual dessert plates, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. For festive flair, serve in glass jars with layers of whipped cream—charming and portable!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got extra pie? Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it at room temperature for up to two days. For the freshest flavor and texture, you can also refrigerate the pie, where it’ll keep beautifully for three to four days—just bring it to room temp before serving.

Freezing

This is a great pie to make ahead! Slice and wrap each piece individually in plastic, then foil. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. The Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe resurfaces just as scrumptious as the first day.

Reheating

If you prefer your pie slightly warm, pop a slice into the microwave for 10–15 seconds, or reheat in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. The filling stays chewy, and the crust regains its lovely crispness.

FAQs

What’s the story behind the name “Sawdust Pie”?

The Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe earns its whimsical name from its rustic, crumbly filling, which resembles sawdust! Thankfully, it tastes nothing like the name implies—it’s delightfully sweet, chewy, and filled with Southern charm.

Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts offer a slightly different flavor and crunch, but they work perfectly as a substitute in this recipe. Feel free to get creative with other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts, too.

Is it necessary to use sweetened coconut?

Sweetened shredded coconut is traditional and contributes both texture and sweetness. If you only have unsweetened, consider adding an extra tablespoon or two of sugar to balance things out. The pie’s personality, though, comes from that coconutty sweetness.

Why only use egg whites for the filling?

Egg whites bind the filling without making it dense or overly rich. This keeps the Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe chewy and light, highlighting all the mix-ins. Using whole eggs would change the texture significantly.

Can I make this pie gluten free?

You can! Simply use gluten-free graham crackers and a gluten-free pie crust. The filling itself is naturally gluten free, so it’s an easy adaptation for friends and family with dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t tried the Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe yet, now’s the time to dive in. It’s an old-school gem that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. Whether you’re new to Southern baking or already a fan, this pie will become a favorite—promise!

Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe

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4.7 from 10 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich, sweet flavors of the South with this Kentucky Sawdust Pie recipe. A delectable blend of coconut, pecans, and graham crackers baked into a golden crust, this dessert is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients

Scale

Pie:

1 unbaked 9-inch deep-dish pie crust
1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1 cup granulated sugar
6 large egg whites
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Serving Suggestions:

Whipped cream
Sliced bananas

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine coconut, pecans, graham cracker crumbs, and sugar. Stir well.
Beat Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, lightly beat egg whites and vanilla until frothy.
Combine: Pour egg white mixture into dry ingredients. Stir until fully combined.
Fill Pie Crust: Pour mixture into pie crust, smooth the top.
Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes, until set and golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Let cool before slicing. Serve with whipped cream and bananas.