Kentucky Sawdust Pie Recipe

If you’ve never tasted Kentucky Sawdust Pie before, you’re in for an unforgettable treat! This wonderfully southern dessert combines simple, classic pantry staples with a magical richness and texture from coconut, graham crumbs, pecans, and a sweet, gooey filling. It’s exactly the kind of luscious, crowd-pleasing pie that begs for a big scoop of ice cream or a cloud of whipped cream on top. One bite, and you’ll be whisked straight to a Kentucky kitchen—think impossibly crunchy edges and a sweet, chewy center. This is the kind of dessert you’ll want to bring to every potluck, holiday, or family get-together!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Kentucky Sawdust Pie is how it turns simple ingredients into something pure magic. Each component brings its own personality, helping create those perfect layers of flavor and texture that keep everyone coming back for seconds.

• Unbaked pie shell: The buttery base that holds all the delicious filling together—use homemade or store-bought for convenience.
• Sweetened shredded coconut: Adds chewy sweetness and a toasty flavor after baking that’s absolutely irresistible.
• Chopped pecans: Bring a nutty crunch that makes every slice feel hearty and satisfying.
• Graham cracker crumbs: These give the pie a gentle warmth and crumbly texture that marries the other ingredients together.
• Sugar: Classic, simple sweetness keeps everything balanced.
• Brown sugar: Adds depth and caramel notes that make the filling extra rich.
• Unsalted butter, melted: Fat equals flavor. Melted butter keeps your filling moist and buttery in every bite.
• Milk: Just a splash creates a luxuriously creamy texture.
• Vanilla extract: A dash brings everything together, adding warmth and rounding out the sweet flavors.
• Large eggs, beaten: These create the structure and custardy finish that gives Sawdust Pie its signature chew.

How to Make Kentucky Sawdust Pie

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Give it plenty of time to properly preheat. A consistent oven temperature is key for achieving that perfect set filling and golden brown top, so don’t rush this step. Trust me, your Kentucky Sawdust Pie will thank you.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, gather up the coconut, pecans, graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and brown sugar. Stir these together until everything is muddled nicely. You want the coconut and pecans to be coated by all those lovely sugars, so every bite gets a bit of everything!

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Pour the melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and beaten eggs right into your dry ingredient mixture. Now comes the fun part—mix, mix, mix! Stir until you have a cohesive filling, making sure there are no lurking dry pockets at the bottom. You’ll see the mixture take on a glossy sheen and chunky texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Spoon your filling right into the unbaked pie shell. Use a spatula to spread it evenly all the way to the edges. Don’t worry if it looks a little rustic—the beauty of Kentucky Sawdust Pie is in its homey charm.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide your pie onto the middle oven rack. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes—set your timer! When it’s done, the filling will be soft but set, and the top will glow a lovely golden brown. If your oven runs hot, start checking around the 38-minute mark to keep the pie from over-browning.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Resist the urge to dive in right away (I know, it’s tough). Let your Kentucky Sawdust Pie cool completely before slicing. This lets the custardy filling firm up, so every piece holds together like a dream.

How to Serve Kentucky Sawdust Pie

Garnishes

A warm wedge of Kentucky Sawdust Pie positively begs for a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you want to gild the lily, try a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top. For a special touch, a whisper of sea salt flakes can elevate each bite.

Side Dishes

Pair your slice with a cup of strong coffee or sweet iced tea to cut through the richness. For a southern dessert spread, serve with fresh seasonal berries, roasted stone fruit, or even a bowl of citrus salad to add brightness to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, cut the pie into small bars or squares for easy finger-food style desserts. Try serving in parfait glasses: layer crumbled pie with whipped cream and more toasted coconut for a playful twist. You can also bake individual Kentucky Sawdust Pies in mini tart pans for adorable, party-ready servings!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Kentucky Sawdust Pie can be covered and stored right in the refrigerator for up to four days. The filling gets even chewier as it chills, making those midnight snacks even more tempting. Just be sure to use plastic wrap or foil to keep it from drying out.

Freezing

You absolutely can freeze Kentucky Sawdust Pie! Wrap the fully cooled pie (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap, then a layer of foil. It will keep beautifully for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for the best texture.

Reheating

To enjoy the pie warm, pop a slice into the microwave for 15–20 seconds, or heat in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. This helps revive that freshly-baked aroma and softens the filling just enough without making it soggy or overcooked.

FAQs

What makes Kentucky Sawdust Pie different from other pies?

Kentucky Sawdust Pie is all about texture—crunchy, chewy, and creamy all at once. The combination of coconut, pecans, and graham cracker crumbs gives it a unique bite that stands out from fruit or custard pies. Plus, it comes together with simple ingredients you probably have on hand!

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts are a great swap if you don’t have pecans, or you could even try a mix of your favorite nuts. Just be sure to chop them small so you get that even, nutty crunch throughout every slice.

Is it possible to make Kentucky Sawdust Pie gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute gluten-free graham cracker crumbs and use a gluten-free pie shell. All the other ingredients in Kentucky Sawdust Pie are naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy adaptation for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I prepare the pie a day ahead?

Definitely. In fact, the flavors meld and the texture improves when Kentucky Sawdust Pie has had time to cool and settle. Bake it the night before, let it cool completely, and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Does Kentucky Sawdust Pie need to be refrigerated?

Yes, it’s best to keep your pie refrigerated, especially if you’re storing it for more than a few hours. Chilling keeps the filling fresh and the crust delicate, so you’ll have perfect slices every time you serve.

Final Thoughts

Kentucky Sawdust Pie is one of those heartwarming, show-stopping desserts that instantly feels like home. Bring it to your next gathering or make it just to treat yourself—you won’t be disappointed. Trust me, this southern classic is sure to win everyone over, one sweet and crunchy bite at a time!

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