Betty crocker sour cream raisin pie – Bex’s Kitchen

Last Updated on February 19, 2024

Picture this – a warm and creamy filling nestled in a flaky crust with the perfect balance of sweet raisins and tangy sour cream. Welcome to the world of Betty Crocker Sour Cream Raisin Pie, where indulgence meets comfort. 

In this blog post, I will dive deep into the details of this heavenly dessert, sharing insights on why this recipe works, its ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips, storage suggestions, nutrition information, serving recommendations, ingredient substitutes, and even answer some frequently asked questions. 

So, join me on this journey and discover the magic of Betty Crocker Sour Cream Raisin Pie.

What is Betty Crocker Sour Cream Raisin Pie?

Betty Crocker Sour Cream Raisin Pie is a classic dessert that has stood the test of time. It is known for its unique combination of sour cream, raisins, and a hint of vanilla encased in a buttery pie crust. 

This delightful pie offers a perfect balance of flavors – the creamy sweetness of the filling complemented by the subtle tanginess of the sour cream.

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Why This Recipe Works:

The key to the success of the Betty Crocker Sour Cream Raisin Pie lies in the carefully selected ingredients and the well-tested ratios. The combination of raisins, sugar, flour, egg yolks, sour cream, margarine, nuts, and vanilla creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. 

Additionally, the inclusion of a meringue topping adds a light and airy element to the pie, elevating its overall taste and presentation.

Descriptive Ingredients:

• Salt: Salt is used in Betty Crocker Sour Cream Raisin Pie to enhance the overall flavor profile by balancing the sweetness and adding depth to the filling. Even in sweet pies, a small amount of salt can help to enhance the other flavors present.
• Chopped walnuts or pecans: Chopped walnuts or pecans add texture and a nutty flavor to the pie. They provide a contrast to the softness of the filling and crust, creating a more interesting eating experience.
• Water: Water is used to hydrate the pie crust and bind the dough together. It helps to create a smooth and workable dough, ensuring that the crust bakes evenly and holds its shape.
• Sour cream: Sour cream adds richness and tanginess to the pie filling. It contributes to the creamy texture and helps to balance the sweetness of the other ingredients. Sour cream also adds a subtle tangy flavor that complements the raisins and enhances the overall taste of the pie.
• All-purpose flour: All-purpose flour serves as a thickening agent in the pie filling. It helps to bind the ingredients together and create a smooth and cohesive texture. Flour also absorbs excess moisture from the filling, preventing it from becoming too runny during baking.
• Refrigerated Pie Crusts: Refrigerated pie crusts provide a convenient and easy-to-use base for the pie. They save time and effort compared to making homemade pie crusts from scratch, while still delivering a flaky and buttery crust that complements the filling.
• Egg yolks: Egg yolks add richness and help to bind the pie filling together. They contribute to the creamy texture of the filling and provide structure to the pie as it bakes.
• Margarine or butter, softened: Margarine or butter adds flavor and richness to both the pie crust and the filling. It helps to create a tender and flaky crust while also enhancing the buttery taste of the filling.
• Raisins: Raisins are the main filling ingredient in Sour Cream Raisin Pie, providing sweetness and chewiness to the dessert. They add texture and bursts of flavor throughout the creamy filling, creating a delightful contrast.
• Vanilla: Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of the pie, adding warmth and sweetness. It complements the other ingredients and adds depth to the filling, making it more aromatic and delicious.
• Sugar: Sugar sweetens the pie filling, providing the desired level of sweetness to the dessert. It balances the tartness of the sour cream and enhances the natural sweetness of the raisins, creating a perfectly balanced and satisfying pie.
• Cream of tartar: Cream of tartar is used in the Betty Crocker Sour Cream Raisin Pie to stabilize the egg whites when making meringue for the topping. It helps to create a fluffy and stable meringue with a smooth texture, preventing it from collapsing or weeping during baking. Cream of tartar also adds acidity to the meringue, which enhances its volume and stability.
• Egg whites: Egg whites are used to make the meringue topping for the pie. They are whipped into stiff peaks along with sugar and cream of tartar to create a light and airy texture. The meringue adds a sweet and fluffy layer on top of the pie, complementing the creamy filling and raisins.
• Vanilla (if desired): Vanilla extract is added to the meringue to enhance its flavor and aroma. It provides a warm and comforting taste that complements the sweetness of the meringue and adds depth to its overall flavor profile. While optional, vanilla extract can elevate the taste of the meringue and enhance the overall eating experience of the pie.
• Sugar: Sugar is used to sweeten the meringue topping and balance its flavor. It is whipped with the egg whites and cream of tartar to create a smooth and glossy meringue with a sweet taste. Sugar also helps to stabilize the meringue and give it structure, ensuring that it holds its shape when piped onto the pie.

How to Make Betty Crocker Sour Cream Raisin Pie:

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s jump into the baking process. Here is a step-by-step guide to creating this delightful Betty Crocker Sour Cream Raisin Pie:

Step 1: Preparing the Crust

1. Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C).

2. Unroll one pie crust from the box and press it firmly onto the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie plate. Set the remaining crust aside.

3. Trim any excess crust hanging over the edge of the plate.

Step 2: Preparing the Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the raisins and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt until well combined.

3. Gradually add the egg yolks, sour cream, margarine, chopped walnuts or pecans, and vanilla to the sugar mixture, stirring until smooth.

Step 3: Assembling the Pie

1. Drain the raisins and fold them into the sour cream mixture.

2. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.

Step 4: Adding the Meringue Topping

1. In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until soft peaks form.

2. Gradually add the sugar and vanilla, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.

3. Spread the meringue evenly over the pie filling, making sure to seal the edges.

Step 5: Baking and Final Touches

1. Place the pie on the center rack of the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the meringue turns golden brown.

2. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Tips for Perfect Betty Crocker Sour Cream Raisin Pie:

1. Soak the raisins in warm water before using them to enhance their plumpness and texture in the pie.

2. To prevent a soggy crust, blind bake the pie shell before adding the filling. Simply cover the crust with parchment paper, fill it with pie weights or dried beans, and bake for about 10 minutes. Remove the parchment paper and weights before adding the filling.

3. Use room temperature ingredients, especially the sour cream and margarine, to ensure a smooth and homogenous filling.

4. For a crunchy texture, toast the walnuts or pecans before adding them to the filling. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until fragrant.

5. Let the pie cool completely before cutting and serving for the best texture and flavor.

How to Store Leftovers:

If you somehow manage to have any slices of this delightful Betty Crocker Sour Cream Raisin Pie left, here’s how you can store them for later enjoyment:

1. Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or transfer individual slices to airtight containers.

2. Place the pie or slices in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days.

Nutrition Information:

Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional values per serving of Betty Crocker Sour Cream Raisin Pie:

– Calories: 430 kcal

– Fat: 23g

– Carbohydrates: 52g

– Protein: 6g

– Sugar: 35g

– Sodium: 270mg

How Would I Recommend Serving Betty Crocker Sour Cream Raisin Pie?

Here are a few delightful serving suggestions that will take your Betty Crocker Sour Cream Raisin Pie experience to the next level:

1. Classic à la Mode: Serve warm slices of the pie with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm and cold creates an irresistible contrast in flavors and textures.

2. Decadent Drizzle: Enhance the pie’s beauty and taste by drizzling a thin ribbon of caramel sauce over slices before serving.

3. Festive Garnish: Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top of each slice to add a dash of warmth and a visual touch to your dessert.

4. Creamy Complement: Pair the pie with a dollop of freshly whipped cream, adding a luxurious creamy element to the overall experience.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If Not Available?

Don’t worry if you find yourself missing certain ingredients. Here are a few substitutes you can use to recreate the magic of Betty Crocker Sour Cream Raisin Pie:

1. Pie Crust: If you don’t have access to refrigerated Pillsbury™ Pie Crusts, you can make your own crust using a simple recipe from scratch or use a pre-made store-bought pie crust.

2. Raisins: Dried cranberries or currants can be a great alternative to raisins, offering a slightly different flavor profile while maintaining the fruity element.

3. All-Purpose Flour: In a pinch, you can substitute all-purpose flour with an equal amount of cake flour or whole-wheat flour, depending on your preference.

4. Margarine/Butter: Swap margarine for an equal amount of unsalted butter, which will add a rich and authentic flavor to the pie.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I freeze the Betty Crocker Sour Cream Raisin Pie?

   Yes, you can freeze this pie for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

2. Can I use a graham cracker crust instead of a traditional pie crust?

   Absolutely! A graham cracker crust can be a wonderful alternative, adding a unique twist to the traditional recipe. Simply follow the instructions on the graham cracker crust packaging or prepare one from scratch.

3. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

   While Greek yogurt may alter the flavor slightly, it can still be used as a substitute for sour cream. Choose full-fat Greek yogurt for a creamier texture and a tangier taste.

4. Can I make this pie gluten-free?

   Yes, you can make it gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

5. Can I omit the meringue topping?

   Definitely! If you prefer to skip the meringue, you can leave it out or replace it with a whipped cream topping for a different presentation.

6. Can I double the recipe to make two pies?

   Absolutely! To make two pies, simply double the ingredients and follow the same steps. This way, you can share the love and indulge in more of this mouthwatering dessert.

In Conclusion:

Betty Crocker Sour Cream Raisin Pie is a delightful dessert that beautifully brings together the sweetness of raisins with the creaminess of sour cream in a buttery crust. Its timeless appeal and irresistible flavors make it perfect for any occasion.

Through this blog post, we uncovered the secrets behind what makes this recipe work so well, explored the necessary ingredients, provided step-by-step instructions, shared valuable tips and guidance, and even offered alternative options for those seeking ingredient substitutes. Whether you choose to indulge in the classic serving suggestions or get creative with your own variations, this pie is guaranteed to bring joy to your taste buds.

So, why not gather the ingredients, preheat the oven, and embark on a journey to create your own slice of Betty Crocker Sour Cream Raisin Pie? You’ll not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also impress your friends and family with this delightful dessert. 

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