Looking for a tropical twist on a classic dessert? This Crushed Pineapple Sour Cream Pie combines the tangy sweetness of pineapple with the creamy richness of sour cream, all set in a delightful pie crust. It’s an easy-to-make dessert that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 (9 inch) pie crust, baked
- 1 (8 ounce) can crushed pineapple with juice
- 1 (3.5 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
Instructions:
Prepare the Pie Crust:
- Bake the Pie Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- If using a store-bought pie crust, follow the package instructions for blind baking. If making your own crust, roll out the dough, place it in a 9-inch pie pan, trim and crimp the edges, and prick the bottom with a fork. Line with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
- Bake for about 15 minutes, remove the weights and parchment paper, and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool completely.
Prepare the Filling:
- Mix the Pineapple:
- In a medium bowl, combine the crushed pineapple (with juice) and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Prepare the Pudding:
- In a separate bowl, prepare the instant vanilla pudding mix according to the package directions, using the appropriate amount of milk. Typically, this involves whisking the pudding mix with cold milk for about 2 minutes until it begins to thicken.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Gently fold the pineapple mixture into the prepared vanilla pudding. Make sure it is well combined but avoid overmixing.
- Add the Sour Cream:
- Fold the sour cream into the pineapple-pudding mixture until fully incorporated. The sour cream will add a creamy texture and a slight tanginess that balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
Assemble the Pie:
- Fill the Crust:
- Pour the pineapple-sour cream filling into the cooled, baked pie crust. Spread it evenly with a spatula, ensuring a smooth top.
- Chill the Pie:
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours, or until it is set and firm. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and the filling to properly thicken.
Serving:
- Serve:
- Once set, slice the pie and serve chilled. This pie is delicious on its own but can also be garnished with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for extra flair.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Pie Crust: While a traditional baked pie crust works well, you can also use a graham cracker crust for a slightly different flavor and texture.
- Toppings: Top with fresh pineapple slices, maraschino cherries, or a sprinkle of nutmeg for added decoration and taste.
- Low-Sugar Option: Substitute the white sugar with a sugar substitute if you’re looking to reduce the sugar content.
- Additional Flavors: Add a teaspoon of coconut extract to the filling for a more tropical flavor profile.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? A: Yes, but make sure to finely crush the pineapple and include some of its juice. You may need to adjust the amount of sugar depending on the sweetness of the fresh pineapple.
Q: How long will this pie keep in the refrigerator? A: This pie will keep for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
Q: Can I use light sour cream to reduce the fat content? A: Yes, light sour cream can be used, but the texture might be slightly less creamy. Greek yogurt can also be a good substitute for a similar tangy taste.
Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time? A: Absolutely! This pie can be made a day in advance and kept chilled in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Q: What if my pie filling doesn’t set properly? A: Ensure that the pudding mix is properly prepared and the pie is chilled for enough time. If it still doesn’t set, you can try adding a bit of gelatin to the mixture to help it firm up.
This Crushed Pineapple Sour Cream Pie is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. With its creamy filling and refreshing pineapple flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or just a sweet treat, this pie is a winner. Enjoy!
