If you love the sweet, juicy flavor of mangoes and crave a dessert that’s both refreshing and comforting, mango pie is your perfect match. This tropical fruit pie combines the lusciousness of ripe mangoes with a flaky crust or creamy base, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Wondering how to make mango pie at home? Let’s dive into a simple, step-by-step guide that will have you baking a mouthwatering mango pie in no time.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Mango Pie
To make a classic mango pie, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s a basic list that covers both the crust and the filling:
For the Crust
– Pre-made pie crusts (or homemade if you prefer)
– Alternatively, graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter for a crumbly crust
For the Mango Filling
– Fresh ripe mangoes (about 6-8, peeled and sliced)
– Sugar (to sweeten the mangoes)
– Ground ginger and cinnamon (for a warm, fragrant twist)
– Flour (to thicken the filling)
– Lemon and lime zest and juice (to brighten the flavor)
– Vanilla extract (for depth)
For a Creamy Mango Pie Option
– Egg yolks
– Sweetened condensed milk
– Fresh mango puree
– Lime juice
For the Topping (Optional)
– Heavy cream whipped with sugar
– Toasted coconut flakes for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Mango Pie
1. Prepare Your Crust
You can use a pre-made pie crust for convenience or make a graham cracker crust by mixing finely crushed graham crackers with sugar and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie pan and bake at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes until lightly browned. Let it cool completely before adding the filling.
2. Make the Mango Filling
– Fresh Mango Slices Version:
In a large bowl, toss the mango slices with sugar, cinnamon, ground ginger, flour, lemon and lime zest and juice, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. This mixture will be juicy and fragrant, perfect for a baked pie.
– Creamy Mango Filling Version:
Beat egg yolks until thick and pale. Add sweetened condensed milk and continue beating. Stir in fresh mango puree and lime juice until smooth. This filling will bake into a luscious, custard-like texture.
3. Assemble the Pie
– For the sliced mango version, press one pie crust into your pan, arrange the mango slices in a circular pattern with a slight mound in the center, pour the juices over the fruit, and cover with the second crust. Seal the edges, trim excess dough, brush with egg wash, and cut a hole in the top crust to vent steam.
– For the creamy version, pour the mango custard filling into the cooled graham cracker crust.
4. Bake the Pie
– The sliced mango pie bakes at 350°F for about 50 minutes until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool for at least 45 minutes before slicing.
– The creamy mango pie bakes at 325°F for 25-30 minutes until the filling is just set. Cool completely, then refrigerate.
5. Add the Finishing Touches
For the creamy mango pie, whip cold heavy cream with sugar until stiff peaks form and spread over the top. Sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes for an extra tropical flair. Serve your mango pie with vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream for an indulgent finish.
Tips for the Perfect Mango Pie
– Use ripe, sweet mangoes for the best flavor.
– Adjust sugar based on the sweetness of your mangoes.
– Don’t skip the citrus zest and juice; they balance the sweetness and add brightness.
– Cover the crust edges with foil if they brown too quickly during baking.
– Chill the pie well before serving to let the flavors meld.
Why Mango Pie Is a Must-Try Dessert
Mango pie is a delightful way to celebrate the tropical fruit’s vibrant flavor. Whether you prefer a traditional baked pie with juicy mango slices or a creamy, custard-like mango filling, this dessert is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with spices or toppings to suit your taste.
Enjoy the sweet taste of summer anytime with this easy-to-make mango pie recipe!
Mango pie is a simple yet stunning dessert that brings a tropical twist to your table. Give it a try and savor the sweet, tangy flavors in every bite!