| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 25 mins – 30 mins | Difficulty: Moderate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 400 | 19g | 8g | 56g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 28g | 2g | 5g | 0.4g |
When I first stumbled upon the delightful fruit known as Yao Chos, it felt like discovering a new musical rhythm for one of my dance routines. Baked Yao Chos Pies quickly entered my kitchen repertoire, and they have since become a staple that evokes warmth, comfort, and a bit of tropical pizzazz.
Cultural Inspirations
With my Cuban and Spanish roots, I’ve always been enamored with how diverse and vibrant flavors can come together in harmony. The Yao Chos fruit, with its exotic charm and sweet undertones, reminds me of the fruits I grew up nibbling on in Miami, blending seamlessly with Caribbean and Spanish culinary traditions. The tropical sweetness transpires beautifully in these pies, giving them a uniqueness that speaks directly to my heritage.
A Wholesome Delight
One might wonder if something so delicious can also be nutritious. The answer is a resounding “Yes!” Yao Chos is packed with essential vitamins and nutrients, making Baked Yao Chos Pies not just a treat for the taste buds but also a health-conscious choice. Rich in dietary fiber, these fruits aid in digestion and provide a good dose of Vitamin C, essential for boosting the immune system.
The sucralose of granulated sugar and the subtle molasses flavor from brown sugar combine with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, transforming the already delightful Yao Chos into a spiced culinary symphony. These spices not only tickle the palate but also come with added health benefits such as anti-inflammatory properties and improved metabolism. The lemon juice introduces a zesty brightness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
For those who love classic desserts with a twist, these pies might remind you of apple turnovers or mini peach cobblers. However, Baked Yao Chos Pies hold their own unique identity and can easily become a centerpiece for any dessert table. Pair these individual pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy them with a warm cup of tea on a cozy afternoon.
If you’re ready to dive into this culinary adventure, grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the aroma of Baked Yao Chos Pies fill your kitchen. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an experience that nourishes the soul and delights the senses.
What You’ll Need
- 6 Yao Chos fruits (medium-sized), peeled and sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 packages pre-made pie crusts (enough for 6 individual pies)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling on top)
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Organize your work area with all ingredients and utensils required.
Step Two
In a large mixing bowl, combine the peeled and sliced Yao Chos fruits, granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves. Mix well until the fruits are evenly coated with the spices and sugars.
Step Three
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water until smooth. Add this mixture, along with the lemon juice, to the fruit mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the cornstarch is evenly distributed.
Step Four
Roll out the pre-made pie crusts if necessary. Cut each crust into six equal pieces if they are not already portioned. Line six individual pie tins with the crust pieces, ensuring they hang slightly over the edges.
Step Five
Spoon the fruit mixture evenly into each pie crust-lined tin. Be careful not to overfill, leaving a little space for the filling to bubble.
Step Six
Cover each pie with another piece of pie crust, crimping the edges together with a fork or your fingers to seal. Cut a few small slits on the top crusts to allow steam to escape during baking.
Step Seven
Brush the top of each pie with the beaten egg using a pastry brush. If desired, sprinkle coarse sugar on top for added texture and sweetness.
Step Eight
Place the pies on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crusts are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Step Nine
Allow the pies to cool on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This cooling time will help the filling set and make the pies easier to handle. Enjoy your Baked Yao Chos Pies!
