Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe

The Kentucky Sawdust Pie is a showstopping, utterly nostalgic dessert that brings together crunchy pecans, coconut, and a gooey, golden filling all wrapped up in a flaky pie crust. With its humble pantry ingredients yet irresistible taste, this Southern classic quickly becomes a cherished favorite wherever it lands. Whether you’re prepping it for a potluck or simply craving a decadent treat at home, it’s a crowd-pleaser that tastes like a hug from the heart of Kentucky.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe is part of the magic behind Kentucky Sawdust Pie, bringing a delicious balance of crunchy, chewy, and sweet flavors. With just a handful of items, you’ll achieve a comforting dessert that feels familiar and festive all at once.

• Unbaked pie crust: The buttery, flaky shell serves as the perfect base, supporting the gooey filling and providing a satisfying bite.
• Granulated sugar: It’s essential for sweetness and helps give that beautiful golden finish once baked.
• Shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened): Coconut adds chewy texture and a hint of tropical flavor that makes this pie distinctively delicious.
• Chopped pecans (or walnuts): Nutty, crunchy, and slightly toasted as they bake, pecans are the heart of this Southern pie—though walnuts work beautifully too.
• Large eggs: Eggs help bind the filling together, giving it a luscious, custardy texture.
• Vanilla extract: Vanilla brings a warm, homey aroma that ties all the flavors together.
• Salt: Just a pinch amplifies all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Optional chocolate chips: For a touch of richness and decadence, throw in some chocolate chips—totally optional, but always a crowd-pleaser!

How to Make Kentucky Sawdust Pie

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s at the perfect temperature when your pie is ready to bake, helping you achieve that signature golden brown top.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust

Gently fit your unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, making sure there are no cracks or tears. Feel free to use a homemade crust if you love that from-scratch flair, or a store-bought version for a convenient shortcut.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the granulated sugar, shredded coconut, chopped pecans or walnuts, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, toss in the chocolate chips too. Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined and evenly sticky.

Step 4: Pour and Spread

Pour the filling into your prepared pie crust. Use a spatula to gently spread it into an even layer, making sure those nuts and coconut are distributed throughout for an even bake and perfect texture in every slice.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place your pie in the center of the oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You’re looking for a lovely golden brown top and slightly set filling—it should still have a little wobble in the center. This is where the signature gooey bite of Kentucky Sawdust Pie comes from!

Step 6: Cool It Down

After baking, let your pie cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. This allows the filling to set just enough so every slice holds together beautifully yet stays luscious and tender.

How to Serve Kentucky Sawdust Pie

Garnishes

Dress up each slice by topping it with a hearty dollop of whipped cream or a big scoop of vanilla ice cream. A sprinkle of toasted coconut or a small handful of extra chopped pecans adds a lovely finishing touch—and a little extra crunch!

Side Dishes

Kentucky Sawdust Pie pairs well with simple sides like fresh berries, or a crisp green salad if you want to balance out the sweetness at brunch. Strong coffee or a glass of milk round out the experience in a classic, cozy way.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving individual mini pies in ramekins for a special occasion, or drizzle some warm chocolate or caramel sauce over each slice for a decadent twist. For gatherings, cut the pie into small bars for an easy, shareable sweet treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making it ideal for making ahead or simply savoring over several days.

Freezing

Kentucky Sawdust Pie freezes beautifully! Let the pie cool completely, then wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for about 2 months—perfect for emergencies when that sweet tooth strikes.

Reheating

To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds to bring back that just-baked warmth. If you prefer the crust extra crisp, reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes. Top with fresh whipped cream and enjoy!

FAQs

What makes Kentucky Sawdust Pie different from other nut pies?

Unlike a typical pecan or walnut pie, Kentucky Sawdust Pie includes shredded coconut for extra chew and depth, and often chocolate chips for a hint of richness, setting it apart as both novel and unforgettable.

Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust saves time and still results in a perfectly wonderful Kentucky Sawdust Pie. If you have a favorite homemade recipe, go ahead and use it—the filling will shine with either.

Is it necessary to use sweetened coconut?

No, you can use either sweetened or unsweetened coconut based on your preferences. Sweetened coconut makes for a slightly more indulgent, gooey center, while unsweetened keeps the pie on the less-sweet side.

Can I make Kentucky Sawdust Pie without nuts?

Yes! If you have a nut allergy or simply want a different texture, replace the nuts with more coconut or try a blend of seeds, like toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds, to keep some crunch in the filling.

When is the best time to serve Kentucky Sawdust Pie?

This pie is a versatile treat that fits in at any occasion—holiday tables, picnics, potlucks, or a weekend family supper. Its make-ahead nature makes it especially handy for parties and gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Homemade or with a little store-bought help, Kentucky Sawdust Pie is all about bringing people together over a big, delicious slice of Southern comfort. Give this recipe a try and discover why it’s earned a spot in so many hearts and kitchens. You might just find yourself making it again and again!

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