Rainbow Sprinkle Cream Pie

When you think of desserts that bring a smile to your face, the Rainbow Sprinkle Cream Pie undoubtedly takes the cake (or pie, in this case!). This is not just any ordinary pie; it’s a colorful explosion of joy and nostalgia, combining the creamy richness of vanilla with the playful crunch of rainbow sprinkles. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a family gathering, or just a regular weekday craving for something sweet, this pie is sure to brighten up any occasion. With a rich, homemade crust and a luscious cream filling, the Rainbow Sprinkle Cream Pie is as delightful to eat as it is to look at. Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for a second slice.

Ingredients about Rainbow Sprinkle Cream Pie

List of ingredients with measurements

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, thinly sliced
• 3 to 4 tablespoons ice water
• 6 tablespoons rainbow sprinkles, plus more for topping
• 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup vanilla cake mix
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 1/2 cups cold milk

Optional ingredient substitutions

If you’re looking to mix things up or accommodate dietary preferences, there are several ingredient swaps you can consider. For the all-purpose flour, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free. Instead of unsalted butter, you might opt for vegan butter for a dairy-free version. If you want to reduce sugar, you could cut down on the granulated sugar or use a sugar substitute in the filling. You can also use chocolate cake mix instead of vanilla for a richer flavor, and decorate with chocolate sprinkles instead of rainbow ones.

How to Make Rainbow Sprinkle Cream Pie

Step 1: Make the Crust

Begin by preparing the pie crust. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. This will ensure that your crust has the right balance of flavor. Next, add the thinly sliced unsalted butter into the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough holds together but isn’t sticky. At this point, fold in half of the rainbow sprinkles to add a festive touch to your crust.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Once your dough is mixed, form it into a disc and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Place it into the refrigerator and let it chill for at least one hour. This step is crucial because it helps to make the dough easier to roll out and gives it a nice flaky texture once baked.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

After the chilling period, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface, creating a round shape about 1/4 inch thick. Carefully transfer the rolled dough into a pie dish, crimping the edges to give it a nice finish. Brush the crust with the beaten egg wash to give it a golden color during baking. Then bake in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes. After that, remove any pie weights (if used) and continue to bake until the crust is golden brown, which should take an additional 5 minutes. Allow it to cool completely before filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

While the crust is cooling, you can prepare the filling. Start by beating the heavy cream in a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment until soft peaks form. Gradually mix in the vanilla cake mix, continuing until the mixture thickens and stiff peaks form. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cold milk and the instant vanilla pudding mix until it thickens. Carefully fold this pudding mixture and the remaining rainbow sprinkles into the whipped cream mixture until well combined. This bright filling is what makes the pie so special!

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Now that your crust is cool and your filling is ready, it’s time to assemble the pie. Pour the creamy filling into the cooled pie crust. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly, ensuring every bite will be delightful. For the finishing touch, sprinkle more rainbow sprinkles on top. The colorful sprinkles add additional fun and texture. Finally, refrigerate the pie for about 5 hours or until it is firm and set.

How to Serve Rainbow Sprinkle Cream Pie

Best ways to serve Rainbow Sprinkle Cream Pie

When it comes to serving the Rainbow Sprinkle Cream Pie, presentation is key. Slice the pie into wedges and place them on individual dessert plates. This creates an inviting look that is bound to impress your guests. Pairing each slice with a dollop of whipped cream on top can elevate the dessert even further, creating an indulgent experience.

Serving suggestions or pairings

The Rainbow Sprinkle Cream Pie is a sweet treat on its own, but you can enhance the experience by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries, can also make a great addition on the side, adding a fruity balance to the sweet pie. If you want a little extra crunch, consider serving it alongside some graham crackers or cookie crumbles.

How to Store Rainbow Sprinkle Cream Pie

Proper storage methods

To keep your Rainbow Sprinkle Cream Pie fresh, store it in the refrigerator. Cover it with plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing any odors from other foods. If you think you will not consume the pie within a few days, consider wrapping slices individually to make it easier to grab a treat on the go.

Tips for reheating or freezing

This pie is best enjoyed fresh, and freezing is not recommended, as it may alter the texture of the creamy filling. However, if you have leftovers, you can keep them for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. If you would like to enjoy this pie later, consider making the crust in advance and freezing it. When you are ready, you can bake it, let it cool, and prepare the filling fresh.

Tips to Make Rainbow Sprinkle Cream Pie

Common mistakes to avoid

One common mistake when making the crust is overworking the dough. Make sure not to knead it too much, as this can lead to a tough crust instead of a flaky one. Also, ensure that your butter is cold, as this helps create that desired flakiness. Another tip is to allow the pie to set in the refrigerator for the full time; cutting it too early can lead to a runny filling.

Helpful tips for better results

To achieve the best flavor, consider using high-quality vanilla extract in your filling. You can also experiment with different flavored cake mixes, such as lemon or almond, to create unique variations. Don’t shy away from using a mix of different types of sprinkles for a playful look. Lastly, serving the pie chilled enhances the creamy texture and makes each bite refreshing and delicious.

Variation of Rainbow Sprinkle Cream Pie

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

If you want to change things up, consider adding fruit to your filling, such as diced strawberries or bananas, to complement the creaminess. Or, you might like to incorporate chocolate chips for an extra burst of flavor. For a decadent twist, substitute half of the heavy cream with cream cheese for a cheesecake-style filling.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

For those who are gluten-free, using a gluten-free flour mix for the crust is an excellent option. Dairy-free is also achievable by substituting heavy cream with coconut cream and using plant-based milk and butter alternatives. You could even explore using agave syrup or a sugar substitute to cater to different dietary needs.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your crust isn’t flaky, it may be due to overworking the dough or not enough cold butter. Make sure that all your ingredients are cold when you start, and don’t hesitate to adjust the water as needed. If your filling isn’t thickening, you might need to beat the cream longer or allow the pudding to rest a little longer before folding.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! The beauty of Rainbow Sprinkle Cream Pie is that it can be made ahead of time. You can prepare the crust and filling a day in advance. Just keep everything stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. Make sure to add the sprinkles fresh on top just before serving for the best presentation.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

You can swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if you need to. For a vegan variation, substitute butter with vegan butter and heavy cream with coconut cream. You can also replace the vanilla cake mix with any flavor you prefer, and enjoy experimenting with different pudding flavors, too!

The Rainbow Sprinkle Cream Pie is more than a dessert; it’s a celebration of colors and flavors that inspires joy with every bite. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying a quiet evening, this pie is bound to bring smiles to everyone around the table. So grab your ingredients and start creating a masterpiece that looks as fun as it tastes!

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