There’s something heartwarming about a slice of Kentucky Sawdust Pie — a golden, gooey dessert that captures the comforting flavors of the South. Made with a simple mix of crushed graham crackers, pecans, coconut, and sugar, this humble pie bakes into a crunchy, chewy delight that’s rich yet easy to make. Whether you’re serving it after Sunday supper or at a Kentucky Derby party, this pie delivers a nostalgic bite of old-fashioned sweetness in every forkful.
Why You’ll Love This Kentucky Sawdust Pie
If you love pecan pie, you’ll fall in love with Kentucky Sawdust Pie. It’s rustic, crowd-pleasing, and ridiculously easy to make. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
- Simple pantry ingredients: No special tools or rare items — just graham crackers, sugar, eggs, coconut, and pecans.
- Irresistible texture: Crispy on the edges, chewy in the middle — every bite feels like a mix of cookie and pie.
- Customizable: Works great with walnuts, almonds, or even chocolate chips if you like a twist.
- Perfect for gatherings: Serve warm or cold, plain or topped with whipped cream.
- True Southern comfort: It tastes like something Grandma would pull from the oven on a Sunday afternoon.
Ingredients for Kentucky Sawdust Pie
Main Filling
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs (or 7 egg whites)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 crackers)
- 1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1½ cups chopped pecans
Crust
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie shell (store-bought or homemade)
Toppings (Optional)
- Fresh banana slices
- Lightly sweetened whipped cream
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
- Eggs: You can use whole eggs for a richer texture or egg whites for a lighter filling.
- Nuts: Allergic to pecans? Substitute walnuts or chopped roasted almonds. For a nut-free option, use sunflower seeds or leave them out entirely.
- Crust: Use a classic buttery crust, graham cracker crust, or even chocolate cookie crust for variation.
- Coconut: Unsweetened coconut can be used if you prefer a less sweet pie.
- Flavor boost: Add a teaspoon of bourbon vanilla (or non-alcoholic vanilla extract with a drop of maple syrup) for extra depth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Set out your unbaked pie crust on a baking sheet for easy transfer later.
Step 2 – Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, vanilla, and salt until smooth and slightly frothy. This will help the filling bake evenly.
Step 3 – Add the Dry Ingredients
Add the graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Stir until everything is evenly combined and the mixture thickens slightly.
Step 4 – Fill and Bake
Pour the filling mixture into the pie shell, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is just set but still slightly jiggly.
Step 5 – Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before slicing. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh banana slices if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t overbake — The center should still have a slight wobble when you take it out; it will firm up as it cools.
- Toast your pecans — Lightly toasting the nuts before mixing enhances the flavor and adds crunch.
- Use room-temperature eggs — They mix better and help the pie rise evenly.
- Chill before slicing — For neater slices, refrigerate for at least an hour before cutting.
- Serve warm for comfort, cold for crunch — The texture changes beautifully depending on temperature.
Flavor Variations
- Chocolate Sawdust Pie – Stir in ½ cup mini chocolate chips.
- Coconut Lovers’ Pie – Double the shredded coconut and use a coconut crust.
- Banana Split Style – Add sliced bananas on top with chocolate drizzle.
- Nut-Free Version – Skip nuts and add rolled oats or crushed pretzels for texture.
- Holiday Twist – Add a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg for a cozy fall dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Kentucky Sawdust Pie pairs beautifully with:
- Freshly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
- A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce
- Fresh fruit slices like bananas or strawberries
- A cup of coffee or sweet tea for a true Southern finish
Storage and Freezing Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well in the fridge for 5–6 days.
- Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~480 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 55 g |
| Total Fat | 28 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
FAQ About Kentucky Sawdust Pie
What is Kentucky Sawdust Pie made of?
It’s made with graham cracker crumbs, sugar, eggs, pecans, and shredded coconut — all mixed into a buttery crust and baked until golden. Despite its odd name, there’s no “sawdust” in it!
Why is it called Sawdust Pie?
The name comes from the pie’s crumbly, nutty texture that resembles sawdust once baked. It’s purely descriptive — and deliciously ironic.
Can I make it without nuts or coconut?
Yes! You can replace nuts with rolled oats or seeds, and use more graham crumbs if omitting coconut. The texture will change slightly but still taste amazing.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The top should look golden and slightly cracked, and the center should jiggle just a bit when moved — that means it’s perfectly baked.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. This pie actually tastes better the next day after the flavors meld together. Just cover and chill overnight.
Final Thoughts
Kentucky Sawdust Pie is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. With its sweet, nutty aroma and irresistible chew, it’s a dessert that feels nostalgic, comforting, and special all at once. Whether it’s for a family gathering, a potluck, or a weekend treat, this pie brings a little Southern charm to every table.
Print
Kentucky Sawdust Pie – Classic Southern Dessert
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 1 pie (8 servings) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic Southern dessert made with graham crackers, coconut, and pecans in a golden pie crust.
Ingredients
1½ cups sugar
4 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
Pinch salt
1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
1½ cups chopped pecans
1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Whipped cream and banana slices (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Whisk sugar, eggs, vanilla, and salt together.
3. Stir in graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and pecans.
4. Pour filling into crust and bake 30–35 minutes until golden.
5. Cool before slicing and serve with whipped cream.
Notes
Use egg whites for a lighter pie.
Toast pecans for deeper flavor.
Can substitute walnuts or omit nuts.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 44g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
