Prickly Pear Pie

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Prickly Pear

   Wearing thick gloves, use tongs to hold prickly pear fruits. Cut off both ends and make a lengthwise slit through the skin. Peel away the skin. Puree the flesh in a blender, then strain through a fine mesh strainer to remove the hard seeds. You need 4 cups of smooth puree.

2. 2

   Make the Crust

   Whisk flour, salt, sugar, and orange zest together. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add ice water gradually until dough just comes together. Divide in half, flatten into disks, wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

3. 3

   Cook the Filling

   In a medium saucepan, whisk together prickly pear puree, sugar, cornstarch, citrus juices, zests, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and begins to bubble, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted. Let cool slightly.

4. 4

   Prepare the Pie Shell

   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one dough disk to 12 inches. Transfer to a 9-inch pie dish, pressing into corners. Trim to 1-inch overhang. Fold edge under and crimp decoratively. Refrigerate while preparing the top.

5. 5

   Create Decorative Top

   Roll out second dough disk. Use cookie cutters to cut out cactus, sun, or southwestern-themed shapes. Alternatively, create a lattice top or cut geometric shapes for a desert-inspired design.

6. 6

   Fill and Top

   Pour the cooled prickly pear filling into the prepared crust. Arrange the decorative cutouts over the filling, leaving some filling visible to showcase the beautiful magenta color. Brush cutouts with egg wash and sprinkle with sanding sugar.

7. 7

   Bake

   Place pie on a baking sheet. Bake for 45-55 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If edges brown too quickly, cover with foil. The filling will appear quite liquid but will set as it cools.

8. 8

   Cool Completely

   Let the pie cool at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or refrigerate for 2 hours. The filling needs time to fully set. This pie can also be served chilled for a refreshing desert treat.

9. 9

   Serve

   Slice with a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts. Serve with a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a thin slice of orange or lime for garnish.