As the evenings grow cooler and the colors of fall begin to peek through the trees, I find myself irresistibly drawn to the warmth of my kitchen. One afternoon, while rummaging through my pantry, I stumbled upon a bounty of fresh plums and figs—leftovers from my last farmers’ market visit. This serendipitous discovery inspired me to whip up a spiced plum fig pie that’s not only seasonal but also incredibly comforting.
Imagine sinking your fork into a slice of this pie, where a crispy, all-butter crust cradles the sweet-tart medley of juicy fruits, elevated by fragrant spices like ginger and cinnamon. This delightful combination is perfect for cozy gatherings with family or as a festive centerpiece for your autumn celebrations. Best of all, this pie is surprisingly easy to make, allowing you to showcase your homemade cooking prowess without the stress. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s embark on a culinary journey that will transform your kitchen into an aromatic haven!
Why is Spiced Plum Fig Pie a Must-Try?
Comforting flavors blend seamlessly with the seasonal essence of this pie, making it perfect for autumn gatherings. Easy to make, even novice bakers can whip this up without fuss! Versatile ingredients allow substitution of fruits based on availability. Deliciously fragrant, your kitchen will be filled with enticing aromas as it bakes. Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Spiced Plum Fig Pie Ingredients
For the Crust
- All-Purpose Flour – Essential for the pie crust’s texture.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; can be substituted with table salt.
- Sugar – Provides sweetness; granulated sugar can replace white sugar if needed.
- Cold Unsalted Butter – Delivers flakiness and richness; make sure it’s cold for the best texture.
- Cold Water – Moisture for dough formation; use ice-cold water for the best results.
- Cider Vinegar – Tenderizes the crust; optional and can be omitted if you don’t have it.
For the Filling
- Fresh Plums – Adds vibrant flavor and texture; you can also substitute with other stone fruits if desired.
- Fresh Figs – Provides sweetness and depth; can use only plums as an alternative.
- Sugar (for filling) – Balances sweetness and tartness; adjust according to your taste.
- Dark Brown Sugar – Adds richness; light brown sugar can be used if preferred.
- Potato Starch or Tapioca Pearls – Acts as a thickening agent; swap with cornstarch if needed.
- Lemon Juice – Adds brightness and balance; can replace with lime juice.
- Ground Ginger – Offers warm spice; use fresh ginger for a more intense flavor.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds aroma and warmth to enhance the sweet flavors.
- Ground Cloves – Contributes depth but can be omitted if not on hand.
- Angostura Bitters – Enhances flavor complexity; can substitute with vanilla extract for a different profile.
For the Topping
- Large Egg – Used for the egg wash to give the crust a golden finish; can replace with milk for a vegan option.
- Water (for egg wash) – Helps to adhere the topping; omit if not using an egg wash.
- Demerara Sugar – Adds texture and sweetness to the topping; can omit for a less sweet crust.
This delightful spiced plum fig pie not only sings with seasonal flavors but is also crafted to become a cherished part of your recipe collection!
How to Make Spiced Plum Fig Pie
-
Prepare the Crust:
Whisk together all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and sugar in a mixing bowl. Cut in the cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs. Add ice-cold water and cider vinegar gradually, mixing until a dough ball forms. -
Chill the Dough:
Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This rest period ensures the crust will be tender and flaky when baked. -
Make the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine sliced fresh plums, halved figs, the sugars, potato starch, lemon juice, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and Angostura bitters. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly coated. -
Assemble the Pie:
Roll out one disc of dough into an 11-inch round and line your pie plate, then refrigerate it for a few minutes. Roll out the second disc, cut it into strips for a lovely lattice topping. Fill the pie crust with the fruit mixture, arrange the lattice over the top, crimp the edges, and chill once more. -
Bake the Pie:
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Brush the crust with the egg wash and sprinkle with demerara sugar. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden, then reduce the temperature to 375°F and continue baking until the juices are bubbling, about 30-35 minutes. -
Cool and Serve:
Remove the pie from the oven and cool on a wire rack for 2-3 hours to allow the filling to set. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Spiced Plum Fig Pie
Fridge: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze slices of spiced plum fig pie individually wrapped in plastic then placed in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake frozen slices at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through, ensuring a crispy crust.
Cooling: Let the pie cool completely before refrigerating or freezing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
Make Ahead Options
These Spiced Plum Fig Pie preparations are a perfect solution for busy home cooks! You can prepare the crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating them separately to ensure freshness and prevent the crust from becoming soggy. Simply roll out the dough, line your pie plate, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble. For the filling, combine your sliced fruits, sugars, and spices, and store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, just fill the prepared crust, add your lattice topping, and bake as directed. This method allows you to enjoy a homemade pie with minimal effort on the day of serving, ensuring it’s just as delicious as if made fresh!
What to Serve with Spiced Plum Fig Pie?
Indulging in a slice of this luscious pie opens up a world of delightful pairings, perfect for creating a memorable meal.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds a creamy contrast to the sweet-tart filling, enhancing every bite.
-
Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream rounds out the flavors, making it an inviting accompaniment for pie lovers.
-
Chai Tea: The spiced notes in chai beautifully mirror the flavors of the pie, offering a cozy drink option that warms the soul.
-
Honeyed Yogurt: The tangy creaminess beautifully balances the sweetness of the pie, providing a refreshing twist to each slice.
-
Balsamic-Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels with a hint of balsamic enhance the meal with a savory element, perfectly aligning with the pie’s sweetness.
-
Apple Cider: Served hot or cold, spiced apple cider brings an autumnal essence to the table, elevating your dessert experience.
-
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette cleanses the palate, contrasting with the pie’s rich flavors and offering a refreshing bite.
-
Chocolate Drizzle: A warm chocolate sauce over the pie adds an indulgent twist that chocolate lovers will simply adore, turning a classic dessert into a decadent treat.
Expert Tips for Spiced Plum Fig Pie
-
Keep Ingredients Cold: Ensure your butter and water are very cold to achieve a flaky crust. Warm ingredients can lead to tough pastry.
-
Don’t Overmix Dough: Mix just until combined to maintain the tenderness of the pie crust. Overworking can result in a chewy texture.
-
Let It Cool: Allow the pie to cool for at least 2-3 hours after baking. This helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.
-
Adjust Sweetness: Taste your fruit filling before baking and adjust sugar levels to match your preference. Not all plums and figs are equally sweet!
-
Experiment with Spices: While ginger, cinnamon, and cloves are traditional, feel free to experiment with other spices that you love to make your spiced plum fig pie uniquely yours.
Spiced Plum Fig Pie Variations
Feel free to jazz up your pie and make it your own with these delightful twists!
-
Pluot Swap: Replace plums with pluots for a sweeter, more vibrant filling that bursts with flavor.
-
Peachy Delight: Use fresh peaches instead of figs for a juicier, summery twist that complements the spices beautifully. The sweetness of peaches adds a different layer of fruity goodness.
-
Crumble Topping: Instead of a lattice, sprinkle a buttery crumble topping for a crunchy texture that pairs wonderfully with the soft fruit filling. This variation adds a delightful contrast in every bite.
-
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for a surprising heat that elevates the sweet and tart flavors! Just a little will make your taste buds dance.
-
Whole Wheat Crust: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutritional benefits. It brings a nice depth and rustic charm to the crust.
-
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for added crunch and richness. They create an irresistible texture that enhances the pie’s heartiness.
-
Maple Sweetness: Replace the sugar with pure maple syrup for a warm, earthy sweetness that complements the fruit perfectly. This twist will give your pie a unique and comforting flavor.
-
Vegan Option: For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil in the crust and almond milk instead of egg wash for a golden finish, maintaining that delectable texture while keeping it plant-based. Enjoy all the deliciousness without dairy!
Spiced Plum Fig Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe plums and figs for the pie?
Absolutely! Look for plums and figs that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. The skin should have a vibrant color—avoid any that have dark spots all over or appear overly wrinkled. Ripe fruit will provide the best flavor and texture for your spiced plum fig pie.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! To maximize freshness, store any leftover spiced plum fig pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If your pie is still warm, let it cool completely before covering to avoid sogginess from condensation.
Can I freeze spiced plum fig pie? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, slice the pie into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a sealed freezer bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake the frozen slices at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through for a delicious treat!
What should I do if my pie crust turns out tough?
Don’t worry too much; it happens! A tough pie crust often arises from overmixing or using warm ingredients. To prevent this, keep your butter and water cold when making the dough, and mix until just combined. If your crust is already made and tough, consider embracing it as a unique texture or zapping it in the oven for a few minutes to warm and soften it.
Are there any dietary considerations for my pets with this recipe?
Great question! While plums and figs are safe for dogs in moderation, the seeds and pits can be harmful. Avoid sharing spiced plum fig pie with your pets, as the sugars and spices are not suitable for them. As for allergies, always inform your guests about the ingredients, especially if they have sensitivities to gluten, dairy, or certain fruits.
Can I make variations in the spices used for the filling?
Of course! The beauty of cooking is in making it your own. Feel free to adjust the spices used in your spiced plum fig pie based on your preferences. For instance, you could add nutmeg or even a hint of cardamom for a different flavor profile. Play around until you find the perfect combination for your taste buds!
Irresistible Spiced Plum Fig Pie with All-Butter Crust Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and sugar in a mixing bowl. Cut in the cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs. Add ice-cold water and cider vinegar gradually, mixing until a dough ball forms.
- Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- In a large bowl, combine sliced fresh plums, halved figs, the sugars, potato starch, lemon juice, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and Angostura bitters. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Roll out one disc of dough into an 11-inch round and line your pie plate, then refrigerate it for a few minutes. Roll out the second disc, cut it into strips for a lovely lattice topping. Fill the pie crust with the fruit mixture, arrange the lattice over the top, crimp the edges, and chill once more.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F. Brush the crust with the egg wash and sprinkle with demerara sugar. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden, then reduce the temperature to 375°F and continue baking until the juices are bubbling, about 30-35 minutes.
- Remove the pie from the oven and cool on a wire rack for 2-3 hours to allow the filling to set.