Recipe: Pineapple Pie with Pistachio Filling

Recipe: Pineapple Pie with Pistachio Filling

Pineapple pie with pistachio filling is a refreshing and delicious dessert that perfectly balances the sweetness of pineapple with the richness of pistachios. This pie is ideal for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to special celebrations. With its buttery crust, juicy pineapple chunks, and creamy pistachio layer, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone.

Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and create a dessert that’s both exotic and indulgent!

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into cubes)
• 1/4 cup cold water

For the Pineapple Filling:

• 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks (or canned pineapple, drained)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

For the Pistachio Filling:

• 1/2 cup shelled pistachios (chopped)
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (melted)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients
   In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Stir to combine.

2. Cut in the Butter
   Add the cold butter cubes into the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your hands, cut the butter into the flour until it forms coarse crumbs.

3. Add Water
   Gradually add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough starts to come together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.

4. Chill the Dough
   Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will help make the dough easier to roll out.

Step 2: Make the Pineapple Filling

1. Cook the Pineapple
   In a saucepan, combine the pineapple chunks, sugar, cornstarch, and cinnamon (if using). Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the pineapple releases its juice. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

2. Set Aside to Cool
   Once the filling has thickened, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool while you prepare the pistachio filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Pistachio Filling

1. Blend the Pistachios
   In a food processor or blender, pulse the chopped pistachios until they form a coarse paste.

2. Mix the Ingredients
   In a bowl, combine the ground pistachios, sugar, melted butter, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Roll Out the Dough
   Roll out the chilled pie dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Transfer it into a 9-inch pie dish, trimming any excess dough around the edges.

3. Layer the Pistachio Filling
   Spread the pistachio filling evenly over the bottom of the pie crust. This will act as a flavorful base layer for the pineapple filling.

4. Add the Pineapple Filling
   Once the pineapple filling has cooled, spoon it over the pistachio layer, spreading it evenly.

5. Top with Pie Crust
   If you like, you can add a top crust to the pie. Roll out the remaining dough and cover the pie, sealing the edges. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. If you prefer, you can make a lattice top for a decorative effect.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

1. Bake the Pie
   Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

2. Cool the Pie
   Once the pie is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve
   Serve the pie warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

2. Storage
   Any leftover pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.

Tips and Variations

1. Add Coconut
   To give the pie an extra tropical flair, try adding shredded coconut to the pineapple filling for additional texture and flavor.

2. Use Different Nuts
   If you don’t have pistachios, try using almonds, hazelnuts, or walnuts for a different nutty flavor in the filling.

3. Make It Vegan
   For a vegan version, use a dairy-free butter substitute and a plant-based cream to make the pistachio filling. The pie crust can also be made with vegan butter.

4. Add Spices
   Experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger in the pineapple filling to enhance the flavor profile.

Health Benefits

1. Pineapple
   Pineapple is rich in vitamin C and bromelain, an enzyme that helps with digestion and inflammation.

2. Pistachios
   Pistachios are packed with healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, making them heart-healthy and great for overall wellness.

3. Butter
   While butter provides richness to the pie, it also contains essential fat-soluble vitamins that support cell function and the absorption of nutrients.

Conclusion

Pineapple pie with pistachio filling is a tropical delight that combines the natural sweetness of pineapple with the rich, nutty flavor of pistachios. This unique pie is perfect for any occasion, whether you're serving it as a special dessert or enjoying it as a personal treat. With its flaky crust, creamy pistachio layer, and juicy pineapple filling, it’s a dessert that’s sure to please everyone. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delightful combination of pineapple and pistachios in every bite!