Today marks the beginning of the Texas State Fair! Yes indeed, Big Tex goes up today which is a fantastic celebration, since last year, the fair was cancelled due to the pandemic! Oh the heavenly scents of the season.... apples, cypress, spice and amber...... One of the more well known treats at the Fair, are FRIED PIES! And, so this post is featuring the best fried pie you have ever tasted... COCONUT CREAM FRIED PIES! COCONUT CUSTARD CREAM 3/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup flour 1 1/2 cups whole milk 2 egg yolks 1/2 t. vanilla 1/2 t. coconut extract 1 T. butter 1/2 cup coconut Mix sugar, flour, milk and egg yolks in a saucepan. Stirring constantly allow mixture to come to a low boil. Simmer about 3-4 minutes until thickened. Add vanilla, coconut extract and butter......transfer custard to a bowl and allow to cool. Place in refrigerator until well set. PIE DOUGH 2 3/4 cup flour 1 t. salt 1 t. baking powder 1 T. sugar 1/2 cup Crisco shortening 1 cup milk Blend all ingredients well until a soft dough ball forms. Wrap in saran wrap and chill dough for 30 minutes. Roll dough out into desired circles, about 6 inches in diameter, place about 2 T. custard filling in the center, fold over the dough and crimp edges to seal. Fry the pies in about 1/2 inch canola or peanut oil. When golden brown, drain on paper towels and sprinkle with sugar while hot! One can never be sad, when eating pie.......
