Sun-Kissed Beachy Pie: A Taste of the Tropics at Home

Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups of crushed graham crackers
  • 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
  • 2 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1 cup of fresh pineapple chunks
  • 1.5 cups of fresh mango chunks
  • 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut
  • 2 tablespoons of lime juice
  • 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup of water
  • 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
  • 1.5 cups of heavy cream
  • 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Stir until all the crumbs are moistened.
  3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate.
  4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 7-10 minutes, until it is lightly browned. Allow to cool completely.
  5. While the crust is cooling, prepare the fruit filling. In a large pan over medium heat, combine the strawberries, pineapple chunks, mango chunks, shredded coconut, lime juice, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, water, and cornstarch.
  6. Cook the fruit mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens to a jam-like consistency. This should take about 15-20 minutes.
  7. Once thickened, remove the pan from the heat and allow the fruit mixture to cool.
  8. After the fruit mixture has cooled, spread it evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust.
  9. In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
  10. Spread the whipped cream over the top of the fruit filling, covering it completely.
  11. Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours, or until set, before serving.

Tools for making

  • Mixing Bowl - A medium-sized bowl for combining ingredients.
  • Pie Plate - A 9-inch pie plate for baking the crust.
  • Pan - A large pan for cooking the fruit filling.
  • Whisk - A utensil used for stirring and mixing ingredients.
  • Spatula - A tool for spreading and smoothing the fruit filling and whipped cream.
  • Electric Mixer - A kitchen appliance used for beating the heavy cream and powdered sugar to make whipped cream.
  • Oven - A kitchen appliance used for preheating and baking the crust.
  • Refrigerator - A cooling appliance used for chilling the pie before serving.

Recipe variations

  • Use a different type of crust, such as a chocolate cookie crust or a shortbread crust.
  • Replace the graham crackers with crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for the crust.
  • Add a layer of cream cheese or mascarpone cheese between the crust and the fruit filling for a creamy twist.
  • Replace the fresh fruit with frozen fruit of your choice, such as mixed berries or peaches.
  • Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the fruit filling for a warm and spiced flavor.
  • Add a layer of chocolate ganache or a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top of the whipped cream for a chocolatey addition.
  • Include chopped nuts, such as almonds or macadamia nuts, in the crust or as a topping for added crunch.
  • For a tropical twist, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream in the whipped cream topping.
  • Make it vegan by using a plant-based butter substitute for the crust and coconut whipped cream instead of heavy cream.
  • Swap out the pie plate for individual tart shells or mini dessert cups for individual servings.

Recipe overview

This Beachy Pie is the perfect dessert to remind you of a sunny day at the beach. Fresh, juicy fruits like strawberries, pineapples, and mangoes are simmered into a tropical filling, complemented by a crunchy graham cracker crust and a fluffy layer of homemade whipped cream. This recipe balances sweet, tart, and creamy flavors in a refreshing and satisfying way. The process of making it is straightforward - you'll create a simple graham cracker crust, a fruit filling, and a whipped cream topping. The result is a delicious dessert that's sure to brighten any meal. Enjoy a slice of this pie and let it transport you to a tropical paradise.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of cracker for the crust? Yes, you can substitute graham crackers with other types of cookies or crackers such as vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits.
  2. Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh fruit? While fresh fruit is recommended for this recipe, you can use frozen fruit if fresh is not available. Make sure to thaw and drain the frozen fruit before using it in the recipe.
  3. Can I omit the shredded coconut? Yes, if you're not a fan of coconut, you can omit it from the recipe without affecting the overall outcome of the pie.
  4. Can I use whipped topping instead of making my own whipped cream? Yes, you can use pre-made whipped topping as a time-saving alternative. Simply spread it over the fruit filling as directed.
  5. How long does the pie need to chill before serving? The pie should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours, or until it is set, before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures a firm consistency.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for combining ingredients.
  • 9-inch Pie Plate - A round baking dish specifically designed for making pies.
  • Medium Pan - A stovetop pan for cooking the fruit filling.
  • Whisk - A kitchen tool used for stirring and mixing ingredients.
  • Spatula - A flat, flexible utensil used for spreading and smoothing the filling or whipped cream.
  • Electric Mixer - A handheld or stand mixer for beating the heavy cream and powdered sugar.
  • Refrigerator - A household appliance used for cooling and setting the pie.

Origin stories

While the exact origins of Beachy Pie are not clearly documented, its creation follows the tradition of many coastal communities globally that use the fresh fruits readily available to them. Whether it's the ripe strawberries, the tangy pineapples, or the succulent mangoes, each ingredient is a nod to the bountiful harvests of beachside regions. The pie is a celebration of long, sun-soaked days spent by the sea, and the sweet, refreshing treats that cool and comfort at the end of the day. The generous dollop of whipped cream on top, much like the frothy crest of a wave, adds the final beachy touch to this dessert. It's a slice of summer served all year round, bringing sunshine to any dinner table. This humble pie, therefore, stands as a testament to the culinary creativity and resourcefulness of seaside dwellers, who manage to capture the essence of the beach in a scrumptious, fruity delight.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.