Island Pecan Pie

Introduction

There’s something magical about the aroma of baking that draws everyone in, and this Island Pecan Pie is no exception. My husband, who is usually skeptical about trying new recipes, couldn’t resist being lured into the kitchen by that sweet, nutty scent wafting through our home. Even my little one’s eyes sparkled with delight at the sight of this dessert. As we took our first bites, we were transported back to sun-soaked island holidays, cherishing every mouthful of this delightful treat. It quickly became a hit in our family, a dessert that embodies the warmth of summer vacations and the joy of gathering together.

Ingredients

• 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 3/4 cups sugar
• 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
• 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 5 eggs, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Prepare the Filling
   In a large mixing bowl, beat together the sugar, eggs, cornstarch, flour, and salt until thoroughly combined and smooth.
3. Add the Butter and Mix
   Mix in the melted butter, then gently fold in the pecans, crushed pineapple, and shredded coconut until evenly distributed.
4. Prepare the Pie Crust
   Place the pie crust in a round baking dish. Pour the pecan mixture over the crust and crimp the edges to seal.
5. Bake the Pie
   Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 55 minutes, or until the filling is almost set.
6. Finish Baking
   Cover the pie with aluminum foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the center is just set.
7. Garnish and Serve
   Remove the pie from the oven and garnish with whipped cream and toasted coconut before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

(Approximate per serving, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 40g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 25g
• Protein: 5g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

How to Serve

• Slice the pie into wedges and serve warm or at room temperature.
• Top with whipped cream or ice cream for an indulgent treat.
• Garnish with toasted coconut flakes for added flavor and texture.
• Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon snack.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and high-quality pecans can enhance the flavor of your pie significantly.
2. Let it Cool: Allow the pie to cool for at least an hour before slicing to ensure clean cuts and better texture.
3. Customize Your Nuts: Feel free to mix in other nuts like walnuts or macadamia nuts for a unique twist.
4. Check for Doneness: The pie should be firm but still slightly jiggly in the center when it’s done.
5. Serve Chilled: For a refreshing dessert, chill the pie in the refrigerator before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Chip Island Pecan Pie: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the filling for a decadent chocolate twist.
• Tropical Island Pecan Pie: Include additional tropical fruits like diced mango or papaya for a fruitier flavor.
• Spiced Island Pecan Pie: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Vegan Island Pecan Pie: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use a dairy-free butter alternative.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.
• Pair with a tropical fruit salad for a complete island-inspired meal.
• For breakfast, enjoy a slice with yogurt and honey.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Storing: Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make the pie crust from scratch?
   Yes, homemade pie crust can add a delicious flavor and texture.
2. Is it necessary to drain the pineapple?
   Yes, draining the pineapple helps prevent the pie from becoming too watery.
3. Can I use frozen coconut?
   Yes, frozen shredded coconut works well; just thaw it before adding.
4. What if I don’t have cornstarch?
   You can substitute with an equal amount of arrowroot powder or simply omit it; the pie will still set.
5. Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
   Yes, walnuts or macadamia nuts can be great alternatives.
6. How do I know when the pie is done?
   The pie should be slightly jiggly in the center but firm around the edges.
7. Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
   Absolutely! A store-bought crust can save time and still taste great.
8. Is it possible to make this pie ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
9. What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
   Leftovers are delicious cold, but warming them slightly in the microwave is also great.
10. Can I add more sugar if I prefer a sweeter pie?
    Yes, you can increase the sugar slightly to suit your taste.

Conclusion

Island Pecan Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a sweet reminder of sunny days spent with family. The combination of pecans, pineapple, and coconut brings a delightful tropical flavor to a classic dish. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering or simply as a treat for yourself, this pie is sure to impress. With its rich texture and sweet, nutty flavor, it quickly became a family favorite in our home. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a journey to the islands with every delicious slice!

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