If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that captures the sunny sweetness of a Southern afternoon, you’ll be absolutely delighted by this Southern Pineapple Pie Recipe. It’s a lovingly simple creation that brings together juicy pineapple filling with a flaky crust, offering a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and creamy textures. Every bite feels like a warm hug, making this pie a true crowd-pleaser whether it’s for a family gathering or a cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this pie’s classic flavor and texture. Each one plays a starring role, from the bright pineapple to the rich eggs and buttery crust, ensuring your pie bakes up beautifully every time.
- Pie crust (pre-made or homemade): The perfect flaky base that holds the luscious filling together.
- Crushed pineapple (20 oz can, drained): Brings vibrant sweetness and juiciness that brighten the entire pie.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Balances the natural tartness of the pineapple with smooth sweetness.
- All-purpose flour (3 tbsp): Helps thicken the filling for that ideal sliceable texture.
- Cornstarch (2 tbsp): Adds extra stability so the filling sets just right after baking.
- Vanilla extract (½ tsp): Infuses a subtle warmth and depth of flavor.
- Lemon juice (½ tsp): Adds a hint of brightness that lifts the flavors.
- Large eggs (2, lightly beaten): Create a silky, rich binding for the filling.
- Unsalted butter (1 tbsp, cubed): Melted into the filling for a creamy finish and added richness.
- Whipped cream or ice cream (for serving): Optional but highly recommended to complement each bite with cool creaminess.
How to Make Southern Pineapple Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Whether you’re using a homemade or store-bought crust, make sure it’s placed neatly in a 9-inch pie dish. This crust will be the golden, flaky foundation that perfectly contrasts with the creamy pineapple filling.
Step 2: Combine the Pineapple Filling Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, toss together your drained crushed pineapple, sugar, flour, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Stirring everything well ensures that each ingredient blends harmoniously into the mix that becomes your filling.
Step 3: Cook the Filling Until Thickened
Place the pan over medium heat and stir constantly. This step is where the magic happens – in about 5 to 7 minutes, your filling will thicken and start bubbling, signaling it’s ready to be transformed into a smooth, luscious pie base.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Butter for Creamy Texture
Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool for just 5 minutes. Then, whisk in the lightly beaten eggs until the mixture comes together silky and smooth. Stir in the cubed butter until it melts completely, enriching the filling with buttery goodness that elevates the overall flavor.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake the Pie
Pour your homemade pineapple filling evenly over the pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the filling is set and your crust has reached that perfect golden-brown hue. If the edges brown too fast, a little foil shield will keep them just right.
Step 6: Cool and Get Ready to Serve
Once baked, let the pie cool to room temperature so the filling firms up nicely. If you prefer a chilled treat, refrigerating it for a few hours is a fantastic option. The texture becomes even more delightful when served cold.
How to Serve Southern Pineapple Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your pie presentation with a generous swirl of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. These garnishes offer a creamy contrast that balances the tangy sweetness of the pineapple filling beautifully, turning each slice into a festive treat.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides such as a crisp green salad or even a simple cup of freshly brewed coffee. The contrast of savory and sweet makes for a satisfying meal that keeps you coming back for more.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes or chopped pecans on top of the whipped cream to add texture and flair. You can also serve individual mini pies or tartlets using the same filling and crust to surprise your guests with adorable, personal-sized desserts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pie can be stored in the refrigerator covered tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight container. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for extended enjoyment.
Freezing
While this Southern Pineapple Pie Recipe is best enjoyed fresh or chilled, you can freeze it if needed. Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
If you prefer your pie warm, reheat slices gently in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can affect the texture of the filling and crust. Warming enhances that just-baked magic, especially when topped with a melty scoop of ice cream.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just make sure to finely crush fresh pineapple and drain excess juice to prevent a soggy pie. Fresh pineapple will add an even brighter, more vibrant flavor to your pie.
Is it necessary to drain the pineapple?
Yes, draining the pineapple is essential to avoid making the filling too watery, which can affect the pie’s consistency and baking outcome.
Can I make the crust from scratch?
Definitely! A homemade pie crust will add a personal touch and allows you to customize the flavor and texture. Just be sure to blind bake lightly if you want a crispier base.
How do I prevent the crust edges from burning?
Using aluminum foil to shield the edges during baking is a simple and effective way to prevent burning while still allowing the center to cook perfectly.
Is this pie suitable for freezing and thawing?
Yes, you can freeze the baked pie, but for best texture, aim to enjoy it within a month after freezing. Thaw it slowly in the fridge to maintain its richness.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Pineapple Pie Recipe is like a little slice of sunshine that brightens any day. Whether you’re new to pie baking or a seasoned pro, its straightforward method and vibrant flavor make it a winner every single time. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share the joy of this sweet Southern treasure with your loved ones!
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Southern Pineapple Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
Southern Pineapple Pie is a delightful dessert featuring a sweet, thickened crushed pineapple filling baked to perfection in a flaky pie crust. This classic Southern treat combines the tropical tang of pineapple with a smooth custard-like texture, making it an irresistible pie to enjoy warm or chilled, ideally topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade, if preferred)
Filling
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp lemon juice
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed
To Serve
- Whipped cream or ice cream, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If using a store-bought pie crust, place it in a 9-inch pie dish and set aside.
- Make the pineapple filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the drained crushed pineapple, sugar, flour, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
- Cook the filling: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cool the mixture: Once thickened, remove from heat and allow to cool slightly for 5 minutes.
- Add eggs: Whisk in the beaten eggs until fully combined, making sure the mixture is smooth.
- Incorporate butter: Add the cubed butter and stir until melted and the filling is well combined.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the pineapple filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the pie: Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. Cover the crust edges with aluminum foil if they brown too quickly.
- Cool and serve: Allow the pie to cool to room temperature before serving or refrigerate for a few hours for an extra chill.
- Serve with toppings: Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Notes
- Using drained crushed pineapple ensures the filling is thick and not watery.
- If the pie crust edges brown too fast, cover them with foil to prevent burning.
- This pie is delicious served warm or chilled and pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- For a homemade crust, consider a buttery, flaky pie crust for best results.
- Store leftover pie covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
