A flaky, buttery crust with a juicy, set fruit filling that's smooth and luscious.
This Blood Orange & Vanilla Bean Slab Pie is a stunning dessert that combines the vibrant flavor of blood oranges with the rich aroma of vanilla bean in a buttery, flaky crust. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this pie brings a fresh twist to traditional slab pies.
Why you'll want it now, The vibrant citrus flavor paired with the sweet vanilla bean makes this pie irresistible and perfect for any gathering.
Why this recipe works
The combination of tart blood oranges and aromatic vanilla bean creates a complex flavor profile, while the slab pie format allows for a perfect crust-to-filling ratio. The pie crust is made with a blend of butter and shortening for a flaky and tender texture, and the filling is thickened with cornstarch to ensure it sets beautifully without being runny.
Equipment
Mixing bowls
Pastry cutter or food processor
Rolling pin
18 x 13 in (46 x 33 cm) rimmed baking sheet
Parchment paper
Sharp knife
Zester
Citrus juicer
How to make it
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add chilled butter and shortening, and cut into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line an 18 x 13 in (46 x 33 cm) rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out one dough disc on a floured surface to fit the baking sheet. Transfer to the prepared sheet.
In another bowl, mix sugar, cornstarch, salt, and blood orange zest. Stir in blood orange juice and vanilla bean paste until combined.
Arrange blood orange slices over the crust, pour the sugar mixture over them, and dot with butter cubes.
Roll out the second dough disc and place over the filling. Seal the edges and cut slits for steam.
Bake for 40 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
Enjoy this Blood Orange & Vanilla Bean Slab Pie as a delightful centerpiece for your dessert table, capturing the vibrant flavors of citrus and vanilla in every slice.
How you'll know it's ready
You'll know it's ready when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the slits.
Convection oven? (and if you don't have one)
If using a convection oven, reduce the baking temperature to 375°F (190°C) and check the pie a few minutes early, as convection ovens bake faster.
Troubleshooting
If the crust is browning too quickly, tent the pie with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
If the filling is too runny, ensure the cornstarch is fully incorporated and the pie cools completely before serving.
For a crisper bottom crust, preheat the baking sheet before placing the pie on it.
If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour while rolling it out.
Storage
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Make ahead
The pie crust can be made and chilled up to 2 days in advance. The entire pie can be baked a day ahead and stored at room temperature.
Variations
Swap blood oranges for regular oranges or a mix of citrus fruits for a different flavor.
Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the filling for a spiced note.
Top with a simple vanilla glaze after baking for added sweetness.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use frozen blood oranges?
Yes, thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before using.
How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?
Ensure the filling is thickened properly and consider preheating the baking sheet to crisp the bottom crust.
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but note the texture may differ slightly.
What if I don't have vanilla bean paste?
You can substitute with vanilla extract, though the flavor will be less intense.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: 1 slice (120 g)
Calories320
Total Fat15 g
Saturated Fat6 g
Cholesterol20 mg
Sodium150 mg
Total Carbohydrate45 g
Dietary Fiber2 g
Total Sugars25 g
Protein3 g
Nutrition information is estimated based on the ingredients used and may vary depending on brands and exact measurements.
Recipe from softsweetdough.com · Soft, sweet desserts worth every bite.
