Tia’s Pineapple Chiffon Flan Recipe ππ₯§
Overview:
Tia’s Pineapple Chiffon Flan is not just any dessert; it’s a legacy, a family treasure passed down through generations, a culinary masterpiece that captures the essence of tropical indulgence. Inspired by my aunt’s culinary prowess, this delightful treat is a harmonious blend of tangy pineapple, creamy cheese, and a hint of citrus zest, all nestled within a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s a dessert fit for any occasion, from intimate gatherings to lavish celebrations. Plus, it freezes beautifully, making it the perfect make-ahead dessert for busy hosts!
Cooking Times:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 8 graham crackers
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup water
- 4 teaspoons gelatin
- 2 eggs, separated
- 3 ounces sugar (divided)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 6 ounces cream cheese
Instructions:
-
For the Crust:
- Crush the graham crackers until fine crumbs form.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar until well blended.
- Press the mixture firmly into the base and sides of a 10-inch loose-bottomed French fluted flan pan to form a crust. Set aside.
-
For the Filling:
- In a small cup, pour water and sprinkle gelatin over it. Allow it to soak.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks with 2 ounces of sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Stir in the crushed pineapple, lemon zest, and juice until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly.
- Add the soaked gelatin to the mixture, stirring until completely dissolved.
- Gradually add the cream cheese to the mixture, stirring until smooth and well incorporated.
- Allow the mixture to cool until it is on the verge of setting.
-
Assembly:
- In a clean mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites until they form soft peaks.
- Gradually add the remaining 1 ounce of sugar while continuing to whisk until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the pineapple and cheese mixture until evenly combined.
- Once the filling starts to set, spoon it into the prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Chill the flan in the refrigerator until firm.
-
Serving:
- When ready to serve, remove the flan from the refrigerator and carefully release it from the fluted flan pan.
- Using a sharp knife, mark the flan into portions.
- Pipe a generous swirl of whipped cream on each portion for a decadent finish.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh fruit, such as pineapple slices, strawberries, and kiwi, for a burst of tropical flavor.
- Serve and enjoy the delightful taste of Tia’s Pineapple Chiffon Flan!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 3823.3
- Fat: 209.2g
- Saturated Fat: 116.2g
- Cholesterol: 1127.8mg
- Sodium: 2921.3mg
- Carbohydrates: 446.6g
- Fiber: 9.8g
- Sugar: 331.9g
- Protein: 58.4g
Recipe Yield:
- One 10-inch pie
Tips:
- For a variation, try using different flavored gelatin, such as pineapple or lemon, to enhance the tropical flavors.
- Experiment with different types of crusts, such as a traditional pastry crust or a coconut cookie crust, for added texture and flavor.
- To speed up the setting process, place the flan in the freezer for a shorter chilling time.
- Make sure to allow the flan to thaw for a few hours in the refrigerator before serving if it has been frozen.
- Customize the toppings to your liking; fresh fruit, toasted coconut flakes, or a drizzle of caramel sauce would all be delicious additions to this versatile dessert.
Indulge in the luscious flavors of Tia’s Pineapple Chiffon Flan, and let its tropical charm transport you to a paradise of sweet satisfaction! π΄π