Take a trip to the tropics with this Island Pecan Pie. Infused with coconut and pineapple, it’s a tropical twist on the classic pecan pie.

Introduction:

Pecan pie is a dessert staple, especially during the holidays, but what if you could give it a tropical twist? Enter Island Pecan Pie—a delicious fusion of the rich, nutty flavors you know and love, blended with the tropical notes of coconut and pineapple. This unique take on the traditional pecan pie will transport your taste buds to a sun-soaked island with every bite. The sweetness of the pineapple perfectly balances the caramelized pecans, while the coconut adds a delightful texture and extra layer of flavor. This pie is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special holiday or simply craving something different for dessert. It’s easy to make, with all the comfort of a classic pecan pie but with an exotic twist that makes it unforgettable.

Ingredients:

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
• 3/4 cup shredded sweetened coconut
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
3. Stir in the crushed pineapple and shredded coconut.
4. Arrange the pecan halves evenly in the unbaked pie crust.
5. Pour the coconut-pineapple mixture over the pecans, making sure everything is evenly distributed.
6. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. The pie should jiggle slightly in the center but will firm up as it cools.
7. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely before serving. This will allow the filling to fully set.
8. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate tropical dessert experience.

How to Prepare:

• Start by preparing the pie crust. If using store-bought, simply unroll and place it in your pie dish. If you prefer homemade, roll out your dough and fit it into the dish, crimping the edges for a decorative touch.
• Draining the crushed pineapple is important to avoid adding too much moisture to the filling, which could prevent it from setting properly.
• Arrange the pecan halves before pouring in the filling to ensure they are evenly spread throughout the pie, providing that perfect bite of nuts and tropical flavors.
• Be patient when cooling the pie. Allowing it to cool completely will ensure the filling sets and slices cleanly.

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Servings:

• Yields: 8 servings

FAQs:

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

• Yes! Just finely chop the pineapple and drain any excess juice to avoid a runny filling.

2. What’s the best way to store this pie?

• Store the pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Cover it loosely with foil or plastic wrap to keep it fresh.

3. Can I make this pie ahead of time?

• Absolutely. This pie can be made a day or two in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.

4. Can I substitute the corn syrup?

• If you prefer not to use corn syrup, you can substitute it with an equal amount of maple syrup or honey, though the texture may differ slightly.

5. What can I serve with Island Pecan Pie?

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream is the perfect complement to the sweet and nutty flavors of this pie.

Conclusion:

Island Pecan Pie is a delightful tropical variation on a classic pecan pie that brings a taste of the islands to your dessert table. The combination of caramelized pecans, sweet coconut, and tangy pineapple creates a deliciously unique treat that’s sure to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re a fan of traditional pecan pie or looking for a new twist, this recipe is the perfect way to elevate your dessert game. With its simple preparation and bold flavors, it’s a dessert that will transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite. Serve it at your next celebration and watch as it quickly becomes a favorite!