Indulge in the comforting warmth and sweetness of a Classic Amish Oatmeal Pie, a beloved dessert that has stood the test of time. With its rich, custardy filling packed with old-fashioned rolled oats and brown sugar, encased in a flaky pie crust, this pie embodies the essence of homey, down-to-earth goodness. Whether you’re craving a comforting treat on a chilly evening or looking for the perfect dessert to share with loved ones, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Join us as we explore the origins of this iconic pie, delve into its ingredients and preparation, and discover variations to suit every taste bud. Let’s dive in!
Introduction
The Amish Oatmeal Pie is a classic American dessert that traces its roots back to the rural communities of the Midwest, particularly the Amish settlements of Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana. Known for their simple, hearty cuisine made from wholesome, pantry staples, the Amish have perfected the art of creating delicious desserts that evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia.
The Amish Oatmeal Pie is no exception. Combining humble ingredients like old-fashioned rolled oats, brown sugar, milk, and eggs, this pie transforms everyday pantry staples into a delightful confection that’s both comforting and satisfying. With its caramelized, slightly chewy texture and sweet, oaty flavor, it’s no wonder that this pie has become a cherished favorite in kitchens across America.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups brown sugar, packed
- 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 unbaked pie shell
- Vanilla ice cream, optional (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Filling
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, old-fashioned rolled oats, milk, sugar, beaten eggs, room temperature unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Step 2: Fill the Pie Shell
- Place the unbaked pie shell into a pie dish or tart pan, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides.
- Pour the prepared pie filling into the pie shell, spreading it out evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
Step 3: Bake the Pie
- Place the filled pie shell in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown on top.
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
- Slice the cooled Amish Oatmeal Pie into wedges and serve it on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
- Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this classic dessert with family and friends.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Add Nuts: For added texture and flavor, consider stirring in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts into the pie filling before baking.
- Spice It Up: Add warmth and depth to the pie filling by incorporating ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves to taste.
- Drizzle with Caramel: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle the baked pie with warm caramel sauce before serving.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats? A: While quick oats can be used in a pinch, old-fashioned rolled oats provide the best texture and flavor for this pie.
Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the pie up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Simply reheat slices in the microwave or oven before serving if desired.
Q: Can I use a store-bought pie crust? A: Absolutely! Store-bought pie crusts work perfectly well for this recipe and save time in the kitchen.
Keto Version
For a keto-friendly version of this Classic Amish Oatmeal Pie, you can substitute the sugar with a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. You can also use almond flour or a combination of almond flour and coconut flour for the pie crust to reduce the carb content.
In conclusion, the Classic Amish Oatmeal Pie is a timeless dessert that’s both simple to make and utterly delicious. With its rich, custardy filling and wholesome oat flavor, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether enjoyed warm out of the oven or chilled from the fridge, this pie is a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of this classic American dessert!
