History of Sour Orange Pie and Trees In Florida

Florida, often celebrated for its citrus bounty, has many unique and delicious contributions. But there is one you may know of. Below is the history of Sour Orange Pie followed by the recipe.

I personally had never heard of Sour Orange Pie until reading a book series about I believe Siesta Key. Once I read about, I found interesting, so did a bit of digging.

Yesterday, I have you the recipe to make a Sour Orange Margarita. Below you will find the recipe for Sour Orange Pie.

Big clarifier. HUGE. I do not cook or bake. This is not a recipe I have tried, but I thought I would share it with you and hope someone that bakes will let me know how it was.

Thank you for reading this post. Don't forget to subscribe! This way you never miss an update, travel deals, discounts and more!! Subscribe to the right------>

No kitchen for me. I’d rather travel. Ready for a trip down the historical lane of Florida? Let’s go!

A Slice of Sunshine: The History of Sour Orange Pie and Sour Orange Trees in Florida

Sour Orange Pie is deeply rooted in the history of the Sunshine State. You can trace its origins back to the introduction of Sour Orange Trees to Florida.

The story begins in the 16th century, when Spanish explorers brought Sour Orange Trees (Citrus aurantium) to the shores of Florida.

These trees, known for their tart and zesty fruit, flourished in the subtropical climate of the region. Today, it is part of Florida’s landscape and culture.

Birth of Sour Orange Pie

As settlers and communities settled in Florida, they began experimenting with the versatile but sour oranges. One of the most delightful outcomes of their experimentation was the creation of Sour Orange Pie.

Today, most folks have heard of Key Lime Pie, but not the once popular Sour Orange Pie. The pie’s origins are often attributed to the ingenuity of Floridian homemakers, who sought as many ways as possible to make something with the abundant sour oranges.

It is not quite known, you made the first sour orange pie and/or created the recipe. What is known is many centuries made the pie and families would pass down their versions of the recipe.

Each family adapting and perfecting the dessert over generations. Today, Sour Orange Pie continues to captivate taste buds with its perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.

Sour Orange Pie Recipe

The recipe I found to make this iconic Floridian dessert is below The ingredients you will need first followed by the instructions.

Sour orange Pie Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
⅓ cup melted butter
¼ cup granulated sugar

For the Filling:

1 cup sour orange juice
1 ½ teaspoons grated sour orange zest
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
4 large egg yolks

Sour orange Pie Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar for the crust. Press the mixture into a pie dish.
In another bowl, whisk together sour orange juice, sour orange zest, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks until well combined.
Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the edges are set, but the center is slightly jiggly.
Allow the pie to cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Serve chilled and enjoy a slice of Florida sunshine!

There you have it – the history and the recipe for the Sour Orange Pie. From the rich agricultural heritage and the creative spirit of its earliest settlers.

From the arrival of Sour Orange Trees centuries ago to the delightful pie enjoyed today, this dessert encapsulates the unique flavors and traditions of the Sunshine State.