Elvera'S Fairy Pie
Elvera's Fairy Pie features a delicate pastry crust filled with a light, airy meringue topping, perfect for those who enjoy sweet, fluffy desserts with a subtle vanilla flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make pastry for a two-crust pie.
- Prepare the filling by mixing the ingredients as specified.
- Bake the pie according to the pastry and filling instructions.
- Whip egg whites with cream of tartar and sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Spread or pipe the meringue over the filling and bake until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, consider using cold butter instead of shortening. If you don't have cream of tartar, lemon juice can be a substitute for stabilizing the egg whites. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. If you like a sweeter pie, increase the sugar in the filling slightly. This pie pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Elvera's Fairy Pie chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh berries or a scoop of whipped cream. For a festive touch, sprinkle some toasted coconut on top. This pie is a delightful dessert after a hearty meal, like Scalloped Sweet Potatoes And Apples, for a comforting finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Be careful not to overbake, as this can cause the meringue to weep.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Elvera'S Fairy Pie contains roughly 781 calories, with 5g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2364mg per serving (103% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Yes, using a store-bought pie crust can save time and effort. Just make sure to follow the instructions for pre-baking if required. This shortcut still allows you to enjoy the delicious filling and meringue without the fuss of making your own crust.
What can I do if my meringue weeps?
Weeping meringue can be caused by excess moisture or undercooking. Ensure the egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks and that the meringue is spread evenly over the filling. Bake until the meringue is golden brown to help set it and reduce moisture release.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator once fully cooled. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to add the meringue topping just before serving to keep it fluffy and prevent it from becoming soggy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).