As the scorching heat of summer begins to bear down, nothing beats indulging in a delicious slice of pie, whether it’s at a barbeque or a day out at the zoo.
Of course, the idea of pie may seem more fitting for cooler seasons, but plenty of delightful flavors can be enjoyed during a heatwave.
In most cases, in order to keep yourself free of sweating, you will want to avoid pies that are hot or laden with gravy, so it is best to eat pies that contain fruit or a cream-based filling.
In this article, some of the best pie flavors to help you stay cool and satisfy your sweet tooth during those sweltering days will be looked into, as well as the best toppings to have with them.
Key Lime Pie
When it comes to refreshing pie flavors, key lime pie reigns supreme. Bursting with tangy lime juice, this classic dessert offers a perfect balance of the sweet and the tart. The cool creaminess of the filling combined with the crumbly graham cracker crust creates a delightful contrast. Topped with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, a slice of key lime pie is a zesty oasis on a hot summer day.
Apricot Pie
Another irresistible option for a heatwave dessert is an apricot pie. Ripe, juicy apricots are the star of this treat, showcased in a luscious glaze that enhances their natural sweetness. Encased in a buttery, flaky crust, each bite is a burst of summer flavors. With its vibrant color and juicy texture, apricot pie is a perfect choice to enjoy when the temperature soars. You will find it for sale on websites like Mudfoods.com when it is in season.
Coconut Cream Pie
For those seeking a taste of the tropics, a coconut cream pie is an excellent option. Its velvety smooth coconut custard filling provides a refreshing and exotic twist. The combination of creamy coconut flavor and a tender pastry crust transports you to a sun-kissed beach. Topped with fluffy whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes, this pie is a tropical oasis of delight.
Lemon Meringue Pie
Lemon meringue pie is a classic dessert that never fails to please, especially on hot summer days. The zingy lemon filling, with its tangy and citrusy notes, wakes up your taste buds and offers a cool and refreshing sensation. The fluffy, golden meringue topping adds a touch of elegance and a light, airy texture. Indulging in a slice of lemon meringue pie is like savoring a ray of sunshine in every bite.
Watermelon Pie
When it comes to unconventional pie flavors for a heatwave, watermelon pie steals the show. This unique dessert celebrates the quintessential fruit of summer in a refreshing and unexpected way. A juicy watermelon base, combined with a creamy and subtly sweet filling, captures the essence of the season. With its vibrant color and juicy goodness, watermelon pie is a delightful surprise that will keep you cool.
Toppings
So, with those flavorsome ideas to consider, the next area needs to be explored; the toppings!
Most people have had pie and custard in autumn and winter, but this can be rather filling in summer. Which toppings will complement the pies and help you to stay cool?
Whipped Cream
Who doesn’t love refreshing and tasty whipped cream?
A timeless and versatile choice, whipped cream complements almost any fruit pie. Its light and airy texture adds a touch of elegance to the pie, while its subtle sweetness enhances the natural flavors of the fruits. Whether you opt for traditional dairy-based whipped cream or a vegan alternative, a generous dollop of this silky topping is always a delightful addition.
Vanilla Ice Cream
Nothing beats the classic combination of warm fruit pie and cold vanilla ice cream. Even if the pie is cold, this combo still works perfectly! The creamy and smooth vanilla ice cream provides a cool contrast to the warm pie filling, creating a tantalizing blend of temperatures and textures. As it melts over the pie, the ice cream adds a rich and velvety element that amplifies the overall indulgence.
Lemon Zest
For fruit pies with a citrusy twist, a sprinkle of lemon zest can be a delightful topping that will perk you up during the heat and won’t add any additional sugar to your diet. The vibrant and fragrant lemon zest adds a burst of fresh flavor that complements fruits like berries, apples, and peaches. Its tangy essence cuts through the sweetness of the pie, creating a harmonious balance that enhances each bite.
Toasted Nuts
Many people don’t associate nuts with being refreshing, but they are high in protein and water, so they can certainly be a tasty addition to a pie. Adding a crunchy element to your fruit pies can bring a new dimension to the dessert experience. Toasted nuts, like almonds, walnuts, or pecans, provide a delightful contrast in texture, and their nutty flavors pair exceptionally well with pies featuring apples, pears, or even tropical fruits. Simply sprinkle a handful of chopped, toasted nuts on top for a delightful crunch.
If you are feeling ambitious, why not caramelize the nuts in sugar beforehand and then serve them cold?
Caramel Drizzle
For an indulgent touch, a drizzle of warm caramel sauce can transform a fruit pie into a decadent delight. The smooth and buttery caramel adds a luscious sweetness that complements the fruity flavors beautifully. Whether you make your own caramel sauce or use a store-bought one, the combination of caramel and fruit creates a heavenly dessert experience.
Or, if it is genuinely scorching and you want something sweet and cooling, why not put the caramel drizzle in the fridge? Then, when it is served with a pie, it will be sweet and icy.
Mint Leaves
For a refreshing twist that will perk you up, garnishing your fruit pies with fresh mint leaves can add a touch of brightness and sophistication. The aromatic fragrance and icy flavor of mint complement a wide range of fruits, from berries to tropical varieties. Simply place a few mint leaves on top of the pie or use them as a decorative element around the serving dish for a vibrant presentation.
Shristi is an avid reader, recipe developer and wellness enthusiast. She’s probably making a mess in her kitchen right now.