The Arkansas Pie Recipe That WON the County Fair—and STOLE My Husband’s Heart!
This simple yet irresistible pie from Arkansas captures hearts with its flaky crust and versatile fruit filling—perfect for any occasion! 🌐 #News #FayettevilleAR #Arkansas #Food
FAYETTEVILLE, AR — Here in the rolling hills of Arkansas, where pie-baking is practically a rite of passage, one recipe rose above the rest to claim victory at a county fair—and won over my husband’s affections in the process. This standout dessert, originally hailing from a kitchen in Fayetteville, Arkansas, combines a buttery crust with a rich, flavorful filling that’s simple enough for any home baker to master. What started as a friendly competition entry turned into a family favorite, and now I’m sharing the secrets behind its success with you.
The Winning Formula: Why This Pie Stands Out
What makes this pie a champion? It’s all about balance—flaky pastry meets a filling that’s just the right mix of sweet and tangy. The recipe doesn’t rely on fancy techniques or rare ingredients, but rather the kind of timeless flavors that make you want a second slice. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like home, whether you’re serving it warm from the oven or sneaking a bite cold from the fridge.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this award-winning pie:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (for the crust)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 4-5 tablespoons ice water
- 4 cups fresh fruit (think apples, peaches, or berries—your choice!)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to bake your own heart-stealing, fair-winning pie:
- Make the Crust: In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Form into a disk, wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, toss your chosen fruit with sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Roll It Out: Preheat your oven to 375°F. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish.
- Fill and Top: Spoon the fruit mixture into the crust. Fold the edges over the filling for a rustic look, or add a lattice top if you’re feeling fancy. Brush the crust with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
- Bake: Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes, until the crust is golden and the filling bubbles. Let it cool for at least 2 hours before serving.
A Love Story in Every Bite
This pie didn’t just take home a blue ribbon—it became a symbol of celebration in our house. My husband, a self-proclaimed dessert skeptic, couldn’t resist its charm. Now, it’s our go-to for holidays, gatherings, or just a quiet night in. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility—swap in whatever fruit’s in season, and it still delivers that same irresistible taste.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Arkansas Pie Recipe
Q: Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?
A: Yes, just thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
Q: How do I store this pie?
A: Keep it covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Absolutely—prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge, wrapped tightly.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat a slice?
A: Warm it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to keep the crust crisp.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, just use two pie dishes and adjust the baking time slightly if needed.
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RELATED TOPICS: Arkansas | Food | Lifestyle
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