
Kumquat Pie Recipe
Hi there! I’m Sadia, a housewife and home chef who loves creating delicious dishes and experimenting with citrus fruit recipes. This kumquat pie recipe is amazing because I made it in a very unique way. Everyone in my family has become a fan of it, especially when I added shortbread. The shortbread took this recipe to another level. Firstly, Let Me Tell You the History of This Kumquat Pie.
The Journey of Kumquats
Originally from China, kumquats are tiny citrus fruits loved for their sweet skin and tangy flesh. These “gems of the citrus family” made their way to the U.S. in the 19th century, thriving in Florida and California gardens.
A Florida-Inspired Dessert
Kumquat Pie may have been inspired by Florida’s famous key lime pie. With an abundance of kumquats, creative home cooks swapped limes for these tiny fruits, creating a dessert that’s both zesty and unique.
Why is Kumquat Pie Special?
Looking for new citrus dessert ideas? This pie stands out for its bold flavor and bright appeal. Plus, if you’re wondering how to use kumquats in recipes, this dessert is the perfect answer!
Tools Needed to Make Kumquat Pie
- 9-inch pie dish
- Blender or food processor
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Electric mixer (for whipping cream)
- Spatula
- Plastic wrap
Special Secret Tips:
- Use your Ingredient Substitution Finder: If kumquats are hard to find, swap with equal parts tangerines and lime zest for a similar tangy flavor.
- Chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping cream for best results.
- For extra citrus flavor, add a pinch of kumquat zest to the filling.
Variations of Kumquat Pie Recipe
- Tangy Citrus Kumquat Pie: Add a splash of orange juice for a tangier twist to this classic kumquat pie recipe. The balance of citrus flavors makes it irresistible!
- Creamy Chilled Kumquat Dessert: Swap the graham cracker crust for a shortbread crust to give this variation a buttery and rich base.
- No-Bake Kumquat Pie Delight: Use a pre-made crust and skip the baking step entirely for a quicker version that keeps all the creamy goodness intact.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen kumquats?
Yes! Thaw them first and remove any excess moisture before blending. The flavor will still be vibrant and tangy.
2.What if you don’t have a food processor?
No worries! Finely chop the kumquats by hand and mash them with a fork to create a rustic puree.
3. How long does this pie keep?
Store the pie in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.The flavor gets better with time. The next day will be even better!
4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a plant-based condensed milk substitute.
Ingredients
For the Crust (Optional):
- 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- (Optional) add a shortbread crust if you’d like a buttery twist.
For the Filling:
- 2 cups fresh kumquats, deseeded and finely chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
For the Topping:
- Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
- Thinly sliced kumquats for garnish
- (Optional Secret Twist) Grated white chocolate or toasted coconut
Directions
- Prepare the Crust (Optional)
- Step 1If you’re making the crust, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2In a small bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Mix well in melted butter.
- Step 3Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
- Step 4Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make the Kumquat Puree
- Step 5Deseeded and finely chop 2 cups of kumquats. (Pro Tip: Roll the kumquats gently before cutting to release their natural oils for extra flavor.)
- Step 6In a blender or food processor, pulse the kumquats until they form a smooth puree. Set aside.
- Prepare the Filling
- Step 7In a large bowl, whisk together the kumquat puree, sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Step 8In a separate bowl, beat heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form.
- Step 9Gently fold the whipped cream into the kumquat mixture until fully combined and creamy.
- Assemble the Pie
- Step 10Pour the filling into the cooled crust (or pre-made crust). Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Step 11Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or until set.
- Add the Topping
- Step 12Once chilled, top the pie with a layer of whipped cream.
- Step 13Garnish with thinly sliced kumquats and your secret twist: grated white chocolate or toasted coconut for a unique finish.