Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that blends the rustic charm of Southern baking with an irresistible twist of sophistication! This Southern Comfort Pear Almond Pie isn't just a dessert—it's a slice of pure indulgence that will transport your taste buds to a world of rich, buttery flavors and aromatic delights. Imagine a golden, flaky crust cradling tender, bourbon-kissed pears, with a hint of almond that elevates this pie from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious home cook, this recipe promises to become your new favorite showstopper that will have everyone begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 3 cups sliced pears
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup Southern Comfort
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9-inch pie dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced pears with lemon juice, 1/4 cup sugar, and Southern Comfort. Gently toss to coat the pears and let sit for 15 minutes to macerate and develop flavors.
- For the pie crust, mix all-purpose flour, almond flour, remaining sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Add softened butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add vanilla extract and mix until the dough just comes together. Divide the dough into two portions, one slightly larger for the bottom crust.
- Roll out the larger portion of dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Carefully transfer to the prepared pie dish, allowing excess to hang over the edges.
- Drain the macerated pears, reserving the liquid. Arrange the pear slices in an overlapping pattern in the pie crust.
- Roll out the remaining dough and cut into strips for a lattice top, or create a full top crust with decorative vents.
- Brush the top crust with beaten egg wash for a golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle additional sugar if desired.
- Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any potential drips. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let cool for at least 30 minutes. If desired, drizzle the reserved pear-Southern Comfort liquid over the pie before serving.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Best enjoyed the same day, but can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Tips
- Pear Selection: Choose firm, ripe pears like Bosc or Anjou for the best texture and flavor. Avoid overripe pears that might turn mushy during baking.
- Maceration Magic: Don't rush the pear marinating process. Letting them sit with Southern Comfort and lemon juice develops deeper, more complex flavors.
- Crust Technique: Keep your butter cold and work quickly when making the crust to ensure a flaky, tender result. If the dough becomes too warm, refrigerate it for 15 minutes.
- Lattice or Solid Top: For a professional look, practice your lattice weaving technique. If it seems challenging, a solid top with decorative vents works perfectly too.
- Egg Wash Secrets: For a professional, glossy finish, brush the egg wash evenly and consider sprinkling a little raw sugar for extra crunch and sparkle.
- Baking Precision: Place a baking sheet under your pie to catch any drips and ensure even baking. Rotate the pie halfway through for uniform browning.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 55mg
