Description
Kentucky Sawdust Pie is a classic Southern dessert from the Bluegrass State featuring a unique and delightful filling made from crushed graham crackers, toasted pecans, sweetened coconut, and eggs, baked in a buttery pie crust to create a crisp, rich pie that can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp. table salt
- 4 large eggs (or 7 large egg whites)
- 9 whole graham cracker sheets (about 5 oz.)
- 1 1/2 cups chopped toasted pecans
- 1 1/2 cups flaked sweetened coconut
Crust
- 1/2 (14.1-oz.) package refrigerated pie crusts (such as Pillsbury)
Optional Garnishes
- Whipped cream
- Banana slices
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and gather all the ingredients needed for the recipe to ensure a smooth cooking process.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Crush Graham Crackers: Place the whole graham cracker sheets into a large zip-top plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin until the crumbs resemble panko breadcrumbs.
- Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet Mixture: Stir the crushed graham crackers, chopped toasted pecans, and flaked sweetened coconut into the egg mixture; expect the filling to be thick.
- Prepare Pie Crust: Roll the refrigerated pie crust dough into an 11- to 12-inch circle and fit it into a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate. Fold the edges under and flute the crust for a decorative finish.
- Fill Pie Crust: Pour the prepared filling evenly into the unbaked pie crust, spreading it out gently.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake at 350°F for about 35 minutes, or until the filling is crisp and browned on top but the center of the pie still jiggles slightly when moved.
- Serve: Allow the pie to cool somewhat; it can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled according to personal preference. Garnish with whipped cream and banana slices if desired.
Notes
- Using egg whites instead of whole eggs results in a lighter texture and less fat.
- Make sure not to overbake; the center should still jiggle slightly to keep the filling moist.
- To toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly browned.
- This pie can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; serve chilled or warmed up gently.
- Substitute the regular sugar with a granular sugar alternative if desired for dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
