Introduction
Southern Pineapple Pie is a delightful dessert that brings a taste of the South to your table. This pie is known for its sweet, tropical flavor and creamy texture, making it a favorite at family gatherings and holiday celebrations. With its origins rooted in Southern cuisine, this pie reflects the region’s love for fruit-based desserts and showcases the versatility of pineapple in sweet dishes.
## Ingredients
– **1 pie crust** (store-bought or homemade)
– **1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple**, drained
– **1 cup granulated sugar**
– **3 tablespoons cornstarch**
– **3 large eggs**
– **1 tablespoon lemon juice**
– **1 teaspoon vanilla extract**
– **1/4 teaspoon salt**
– **1 tablespoon butter** (for dotting on top)
## Instructions
### Method
1. **Prepare the Pie Crust:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– If using a homemade pie crust, roll it out and place it in a 9-inch pie pan, crimping the edges. If using store-bought, fit it into the pan according to the package instructions.
2. **Make the Filling:**
– In a mixing bowl, combine the drained crushed pineapple, sugar, cornstarch, eggs, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. **Assemble the Pie:**
– Pour the pineapple filling into the prepared pie crust. Dot the top with small pieces of butter.
4. **Bake:**
– Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. You can cover the edges with foil if they brown too quickly.
5. **Cool:**
– Allow the pie to cool at room temperature before serving. This helps the filling to firm up.
## History
Pineapple pie has its roots in the agricultural abundance of the Southern United States, where fruits like pineapple became popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Canned pineapple made this tropical fruit accessible to many households, allowing for the creation of sweet desserts that were easy to prepare. Over the years, variations have emerged, but the classic Southern Pineapple Pie remains a beloved staple.
## Benefits
– **Rich in Vitamins:** Pineapple is a good source of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and promotes healthy skin.
– **Digestive Aid:** Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids in digestion and reduces inflammation.
– **Low in Calories:** When made with a simple crust and minimal added sugars, this pie can be a relatively low-calorie dessert option.
## Nutritional Information (per slice, serves 8)
– Calories: 220
– Protein: 2g
– Carbohydrates: 35g
– Dietary Fiber: 1g
– Sugars: 15g
– Fat: 9g
## Conclusion
Southern Pineapple Pie is not only a delicious dessert but also a nostalgic reminder of Southern hospitality. Its unique flavor profile and creamy texture make it a standout choice for any occasion. Whether enjoyed during holidays or as a sweet treat on a summer day, this pie is sure to please lovers of all things sweet. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra-special touch.
