Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Mandarin Delight Pie?
It is a refreshing and easy-to-make dessert featuring a creamy lemon-flavored gelatin filling mixed with mandarin oranges in a graham cracker crust.
How many servings does this pie provide?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
Is this a no-bake dessert?
Yes, this is a no-bake pie that sets in the refrigerator rather than being baked in an oven.
What are the ingredients for the crust?
The crust is made from 1 1/4 cups of crushed graham wafer crumbs, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup of melted butter.
How do I prepare the gelatin for the filling?
Sprinkle one envelope of unflavored gelatin over 2 tablespoons of cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes before adding 1 cup of boiling water.
Can I make this pie in advance?
Yes, this pie is perfect for gatherings because it can be prepared a day in advance.
How long does the pie need to chill before serving?
The completed pie needs to be refrigerated for 3 to 4 hours, or until it is fully chilled and set.
What flavor is the pie filling?
The filling has a zesty lemon flavor combined with sweet mandarin oranges.
How much lemon juice is required?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Do I need to whip the cream?
Yes, you need to whip 2 cups of chilled whipping cream until peaks form before folding it into the filling.
How do I incorporate the mandarin oranges?
Carefully fold the drained mandarin oranges into the thickened gelatin and whipped cream mixture to maintain their shape.
What size pie plate should I use?
The recipe specifies using a 9-inch pie plate.
Should the mandarin oranges be fresh or canned?
The filling uses one 10-ounce can of mandarin oranges, drained, though fresh slices can be used for garnish.
How much sugar is in the filling?
The filling contains 1 cup of granulated sugar.
What is the texture of the pie?
The pie has a luscious, creamy, and zesty texture that is set by the gelatin.
Do I use all the whipped cream in the filling?
No, you fold half of the whipped cream into the filling and use the remaining half to top the pie.
How long do I let the gelatin chill before adding cream?
The gelatin mixture should chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes until it begins to thicken.
What is the best way to garnish this pie?
You can garnish the pie with additional mandarin orange slices for a zesty and visual touch.
Is the whipping cream added to the hot gelatin?
No, the gelatin must be chilled and thickened before the whipped cream is folded in.
Does the crust require refrigeration?
Yes, after pressing the crust into the plate, you should refrigerate it while you prepare the filling.
How much boiling water is used to dissolve the gelatin?
You use 1 cup of boiling water to fully dissolve the gelatin and sugar mixture.
Is this a good recipe for summer?
Yes, it is tagged as a summer dessert because it is refreshing, zesty, and served chilled.
What preparation is needed for the graham cracker crumbs?
The graham wafer crumbs should be crushed before being mixed with sugar and butter.
What category does this recipe belong to?
This recipe is categorized as a Pie.
What are the primary flavor profiles?
The primary flavors are mandarin orange and lemon.
How should I store the pie?
The pie should be covered and kept in the refrigerator.
Does the recipe use unflavored or flavored gelatin?
It uses one envelope of unflavored gelatin, which is then flavored with lemon juice and sugar.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
The recipe specifies fresh lemon juice for the best flavor, but bottled could be used in a pinch.
What is the first step of the instructions?
The first step is to combine graham wafer crumbs, sugar, and melted butter to create the crust.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 10 ingredients required for this pie.