Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tropical Lattice Pineapple Pie?
It is a tropical-inspired dessert that combines sweet crushed pineapple with a crispy, golden lattice pastry crust.
What type of pineapple is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 20 ounces of crushed pineapple, specifically suggesting the Dole brand.
Should I drain the pineapple before cooking?
No, the pineapple should be used undrained to ensure there is enough liquid for the filling.
How much sugar is needed for the pineapple filling?
You will need 1/2 cup of sugar to sweeten the pineapple mixture.
What is used as a thickening agent in this pie?
Two tablespoons of cornstarch are used to thicken the pineapple filling until it is translucent.
Is salt a necessary ingredient for this pie?
No, the 1/4 teaspoon of salt is listed as optional.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, the recipe allows for either 1 tablespoon of butter or margarine.
Why is lemon juice added to the filling?
One tablespoon of lemon juice is added to provide a refreshing zing and balance the sweetness.
How many servings does this pie provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 8 servings.
What is the required oven temperature for baking?
The oven should be preheated to 400°F (200°C).
How long does the Tropical Lattice Pineapple Pie bake?
The pie should bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the pastry is light golden brown.
What size pie shell is recommended?
A 9-inch pastry shell is recommended for this recipe.
How wide should the lattice strips be?
The pastry dough should be cut into strips approximately 1-inch wide for the lattice top.
Does the bottom crust need to be pre-baked?
No, the pineapple filling is poured into an unbaked 9-inch pastry shell.
How do I know when the filling is ready on the stove?
Cook the mixture over medium heat until it becomes thick and translucent.
Why should I let the filling cool before pouring it into the crust?
Allowing the filling to cool slightly helps prevent the pastry from becoming soggy.
How do I create the lattice top?
Weave the 1-inch pastry strips over the pie in a crisscross pattern.
How do I secure the lattice strips?
Pinch and seal the edges of the pastry to secure the strips to the bottom crust.
What is the best way to cool the pie?
Let the pie cool on a wire rack to allow the filling to set properly before serving.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, the recipe is described as surprisingly easy to prepare and perfect for pineapple lovers.
What type of pastry is required?
You will need enough pastry dough for a double-crust 9-inch pie.
Can I serve this pie immediately after baking?
It is recommended to let it cool first so the filling can set properly.
What is the main flavor profile of this dessert?
The profile is sweet, fruity, and tropical with a buttery, crispy crust.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 key ingredients including the pastry, pineapple, sugar, cornstarch, salt, butter, and lemon juice.
Is this a heavy or light dessert?
It is described as a refreshing twist on traditional pies, making it a lighter-feeling fruity treat.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
While the recipe specifies canned crushed pineapple, fresh pineapple can be used if it is finely crushed and contains enough juice.
What category of food does this fall under?
This recipe is categorized as a Pie under the Dessert section.
How do I prevent the edges from burning?
Because it bakes at 400°F, keep an eye on it after 20 minutes; if the edges brown too fast, you can cover them with foil.
What should the texture of the finished crust be?
The finished lattice crust should be crispy and light golden brown.
Is this recipe inspired by a specific brand?
Yes, the recipe is inspired by the Dole website's approach to pineapple pie.