Sawdust Pie Recipe

Name: Sawdust Pie
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 115 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 1/2 (14.1-oz.) pkg. refrigerated pie crusts, at room temperature (such as Pillsbury); 7 large egg whites, lightly beaten; 1 1/2 cups unsweetened flaked coconut (from 1 [7-oz.] bag); 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (from 1 [13.5-oz.] box); 1 1/2 cups finely chopped walnuts; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1/4 tsp. kosher salt; 2 tsp. vanilla extract; Whipped cream; Sliced bananas

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Dont let the name fool you this pie is anything but dusty. This old-fashioned dessert gets its name from the sweet, crumbly filling that looks like sawdust but tastes like a coconut pie, chess pie, and pecan pie filling in one. This pantry staple pie is easy to whip up in under two hours and is sure to be a standout on the dessert table. "This tastes like a pecan pie but better!" said recipe developer Amanda Holstein.

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly. Original recipe (1X) yields 8 servings:

1/2 (14.1-ounce) package refrigerated pie crusts, at room temperature (such as Pillsbury)
7 large egg whites, lightly beaten
1 1/2 cups unsweetened flaked coconut
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 1/2 cups finely chopped walnuts
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Whipped cream for serving
Sliced bananas for serving

Directions

Step 1: Gather all ingredients and preheat the oven to 350F (175C).

Step 2: Fit the pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate. Fold the edges over and crimp them with the tines of a fork. Poke holes evenly along the sides and bottom of the pie crust with a fork.

Step 3: Bake the pie crust in the preheated oven for about 8 minutes, or until the bottom and sides are dry to the touch. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.

Step 4: In a large bowl, gently fold together the egg whites, flaked coconut, graham cracker crumbs, chopped walnuts, granulated sugar, kosher salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until fully combined and the mixture becomes thick (about 1 minute).

Step 5: Transfer the egg white mixture into the prepared pie crust and gently spread it into an even layer.

Step 6: Return the pie to the oven and bake at 350F (175C) for about 25 minutes, or until the pie crust edges are golden brown and the center is set. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack for about 1 hour.

Step 7: Once cooled, slice the pie and top with whipped cream and sliced bananas.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 593
Fat: 28g (36% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 8g (41% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 1mg (0% Daily Value)
Sodium: 323mg (14% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate: 79g (29% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 5g (17% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 51g
Protein: 10g (20% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 2mg (2% Daily Value)
Calcium: 45mg (3% Daily Value)
Iron: 2mg (13% Daily Value)
Potassium: 315mg (7% Daily Value)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. If following a medically restrictive diet, consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe.

Sawdust Pie Recipe

The Story and Charm of Sawdust Pie

Sawdust Pie is a classic Southern dessert with roots that trace back to the early 20th century in the United States. Its unusual name comes from the texture of its filling, which resembles fine sawdust, yet is delightfully sweet and nutty. Originally, it was created as an inventive way to combine pantry staples such as coconut, nuts, and sugar into a quick, satisfying dessert for families during the Great Depression. Home cooks appreciated that it used simple ingredients while producing a rich and textured pie that could rival more elaborate desserts.

Regional Characteristics

This pie is particularly popular in the Southern United States, where coconut, nuts, and pie-making traditions converge. Variations can be found across states like Kentucky, Tennessee, and Mississippi, where some families add local pecans or substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed cookies. The Souths affinity for sweet, rich desserts makes Sawdust Pie a natural fit for holiday gatherings and Sunday dinners.

What Sets It Apart

While it shares elements with coconut pie, chess pie, and pecan pie, Sawdust Pie stands out due to its combination of textures. Unlike coconut pie, which is often custard-based, Sawdust Pie uses whipped egg whites to create a light, airy filling. Unlike chess pie, it incorporates nuts and coconut for additional crunch. The result is a multi-dimensional dessert that is both sweet and slightly nutty, with a crumbly topping that visually justifies its unusual name.

Where Youll Typically Find It

Sawdust Pie is most commonly served at family gatherings, potlucks, and Southern holiday tables. It is also a favorite in small-town bakeries and local cafs throughout the South. Often, it is garnished with whipped cream and sliced bananas, adding a touch of freshness and color that complements its rich texture.

Interesting Facts

The name Sawdust Pie is purely descriptive of the fillings texture and has nothing to do with actual sawdust.
The pie gained popularity during times when home bakers needed to stretch simple ingredients creatively.
It combines influences from multiple Southern pies, making it a unique fusion dessert.
Modern adaptations sometimes include chocolate chips or caramel drizzle for extra sweetness.
Despite its crumbly appearance, the pie holds together well and slices cleanly when cooled properly.

With its rich history, regional variations, and distinctive texture, Sawdust Pie remains a beloved staple of Southern cuisine. Its a dessert that tells a story through both flavor and name, offering a sweet taste of tradition with every bite.

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FAQ about Sawdust Pie Recipe

Store any leftover Sawdust Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pie for up to 1-2 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.

Yes, Sawdust Pie can be made a day or two ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. The flavors may actually improve as it sits. Just add whipped cream and sliced bananas right before serving.

Yes, you can substitute the walnuts with other nuts like pecans, almonds, or cashews. The texture and flavor may change slightly, but it will still taste delicious.

It is recommended to use unsweetened flaked coconut, as the pie already contains sugar. Sweetened coconut may make the pie too sweet.

Yes, to make the Sawdust Pie gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free pie crust and ensure that the graham cracker crumbs are also gluten-free.

The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the center is firm to the touch. If you insert a toothpick or knife into the center, it should come out clean. The baking time is typically around 25 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Yes, you can serve Sawdust Pie without whipped cream or bananas, although they add a nice touch of freshness and sweetness. The pie is still delicious on its own.

If the filling appears too runny, it could be due to underbaking or the egg whites not being beaten sufficiently. Make sure to fully bake the pie until the filling is set and the edges of the crust are golden brown. If the pie has cooled and still appears runny, it may not have been baked long enough initially.

Yes, you can freeze Sawdust Pie. After baking and cooling completely, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 1-2 months. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and top with whipped cream and bananas before serving.