Grandma’s Pickle Pie Recipe
If you adore tangy, savory treats that bring a little twist to your usual pie lineup, then you are going to fall head over heels for Grandma’s Pickle Pie Recipe. This delightful pie combines the zing of dill pickles with creamy, comforting ingredients baked to perfection in a flaky crust, creating a unique flavor experience that both surprises and satisfies. Whether you’re a longtime pickle fan or new to pickle-inspired dishes, this recipe is a wonderful homage to grandma’s quirky kitchen magic and is sure to become a favorite in your home too.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for Grandma’s Pickle Pie Recipe are wonderfully simple yet purposeful, each playing an essential role in building its distinctive flavor and creamy texture. From the crispness of fresh dill pickles to the silky richness of sour cream and mayonnaise, every bite offers a perfect balance of tang and smoothness.
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust: Provides the flaky, buttery base that holds everything together beautifully.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped dill pickles: Adds the signature tang and crunch that make the pie unforgettable.
- 1/4 cup pickle juice: Infuses the filling with that unmistakable pickle flavor, intensifying its zestiness.
- 3 large eggs: Bind the filling ingredients to create a custard-like consistency.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings creaminess and subtle tartness that soften the edges of the pickles’ bite.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Adds richness and smooth texture to the filling.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Offers a gentle kick and depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a mild savory undertone that balances the tangy notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Provides aromatic sweetness without overpowering the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth that rounds out the flavor profile.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Contributes crunch and a fresh bite for texture contrast.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): For those who love a cheesy twist, this elevates the richness and adds savory depth.
How to Make Grandma’s Pickle Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pie Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the unbaked 9-inch pie crust snugly in your pie dish, then crimp the edges to give it that classic homemade look. The crust is the sturdy yet flaky foundation that will hold all those delightful flavors together once baked.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, mayonnaise, pickle juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. The goal here is to achieve a smooth, creamy base where all the flavors can meld harmoniously. Once combined, fold in the finely chopped dill pickles and onions for that wonderful texture and kick of flavor.
Step 3: Add Cheese (Optional)
If you’re feeling a little adventurous, gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese at this point. It adds a luscious, savory layer that complements the tangy pickles exquisitely, bringing a new dimension to Grandma’s Pickle Pie Recipe.
Step 4: Fill and Bake
Pour your filling evenly into the prepared pie crust, spreading it so it reaches all the edges. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the center has set and the top is a delicate golden brown. This baking time ensures the creamy filling firms up without losing its richness.
Step 5: Cool Before Serving
Once you remove the pie from the oven, allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes. This resting period helps the filling settle, making slicing easier and allowing all the wonderful flavors to develop fully before the first bite.
How to Serve Grandma’s Pickle Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To make your serving truly pop, consider a sprinkle of fresh dill or chopped chives on top. These bright green herbs add an inviting freshness and a color contrast that complements the pie’s tangy personality perfectly. A dollop of sour cream can also provide a cooling balance against the pickle’s zest.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with simple, crisp side options like a light cucumber salad or fresh garden greens tossed in a lemon vinaigrette. The crunchy vegetables bring refreshing texture and clean flavors that highlight the pie’s tang without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get inventive, try serving Grandma’s Pickle Pie Recipe in mini tart shells for charming individual portions perfect for parties. Alternatively, cut it into small squares for a picnic-friendly finger food, or add it alongside your favorite charcuterie board as a delightfully unexpected savory treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pickle pie keeps really well when refrigerated in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it a brilliant option for next-day lunches or a quick snack. The flavors often deepen after some rest, giving you a slightly more mellow but equally delicious experience.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy Grandma’s Pickle Pie Recipe at a later time, you can freeze it. Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover pie pieces gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible for the best texture—slow, even heat helps keep the crust crisp and the filling creamy.
FAQs
Can I use sweet pickles instead of dill in Grandma’s Pickle Pie Recipe?
While you can use sweet pickles, the distinctive tangy flavor of dill pickles really makes this pie special. Sweet pickles will change the overall taste, giving it a milder, sweeter profile rather than that classic pickle punch.
Is the cheddar cheese necessary in this recipe?
The cheddar cheese is optional but highly recommended for a touch of richness and an extra savory note. If you prefer to keep it dairy-light or simpler, feel free to leave it out without compromising the integrity of Grandma’s Pickle Pie Recipe.
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use a gluten-free pie crust in place of the traditional crust. The filling itself is naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy swap to tailor the recipe to your dietary needs.
How strong is the pickle flavor in this pie?
The pickle flavor is pleasantly strong but balanced by the creamy, smooth filling and mild seasonings. If you want more intensity, consider using extra-briny pickles or adding a splash more pickle juice for an extra zing.
Is this pie served hot or cold?
This pie is best enjoyed warm or at room temperature after cooling for about 10 minutes post-baking. That way, the filling sets nicely but remains tender and flavorful. Some folks also enjoy it chilled, which highlights the pickle’s tanginess in a different way.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about Grandma’s Pickle Pie Recipe—the way it combines unexpected ingredients into a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and utterly unique. It’s perfect for pickle enthusiasts looking for a new kitchen adventure or anyone eager to surprise their taste buds. I encourage you to give this quirky, charming pie a try and watch it quickly become a beloved conversation starter at your next meal or gathering.
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Grandma’s Pickle Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Grandma’s Pickle Pie is a quirky and tangy savory pie perfect for pickle lovers. Featuring a creamy filling of dill pickles, pickle juice, eggs, and a hint of mustard baked in a flaky pie crust, this unique side dish offers a delightful mix of flavors that’s sure to be a conversation starter at any potluck or family gathering.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Filling
- 1/2 cup finely chopped dill pickles
- 1/4 cup pickle juice
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Crust: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges as desired to form a neat crust base.
- Mix Filling Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, mayonnaise, pickle juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Pickles and Onion: Stir in the finely chopped dill pickles and onion evenly into the filling mixture. If you choose to use cheddar cheese, gently fold it in now to add a creamy, savory element.
- Fill the Pie Crust: Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust and spread it out evenly to ensure consistent baking.
- Bake the Pie: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top develops a lightly golden color.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature as a delightful side dish.
Notes
- This tangy pie is perfect for those who love pickles and is a unique side dish or conversation-starting option for potlucks.
- For a sharper flavor, use extra-briny pickles or add a dash of hot sauce to the filling mixture.
- The cheddar cheese is optional but adds a creamy, savory twist that complements the pickle taste well.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Savory Pie
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American