Scrump and Save: Scrumpy Delight + Simply From Scratch by Alicia Bessette

Photos by Dave TavaniScrumpy Delight is, truly, a terrible name for a dessert. It sounds more like Swamp Thing's cute sidekick than a delicious pastry.

But in the novel Simply from Scratch by Alicia Bessette, which I recently had the opportunity to preview in review copy form (it comes out later on in the summer) it's the unexpectedly delicious dessert--made with an unlikely series of ingredients including pineapple, goat cheese, and chocolate, all baked in a pastry crust-- that represents sweet salvation for a character who is struggling with the tragic death of her husband.

Dave TavaniSo how is the book, anyway? I found it to be a thoroughly engaging novel. While the story can be slightly cliche at times, the main character's charm is undeniable, appealing even as she struggles with tragedy, and ultimately the sweet story did win me over.

Moreover, the book, like the below recipe, goes to show that sometimes, the strangest flavors can come together to create something magical--both in pastry, and in life.

Here's the recipe from the book:

Scrumpy Delight

As seen in Simply from Scratch by Alicia Bessette

- serves 2-4 -

Ingredients

  • 1 heaping cup well chopped pineapple, either grilled (ideally) or at least very well drained
  • 2 ounces spreadable goat cheese, softened slightly in microwave (cream cheese will also do)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh-ground black pepper
  • One pie crust (your favorite recipe, or a pre-made pie crust dough)
  • 1- 1 1/2 ounce dark or milk chocolate bar
  • 2 teaspoons cream or whole milk

For garnish:

  • brown sugar
  • chilled fresh raspberries or blueberries
  • pepper to taste

Procedure

 

  1. Preheat oven to 425 F. Lightly grease a baking sheet.
  2. Combine pineapple, cheese, honey, lime juice, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Carefully lay pie crust flat on your baking sheet. Repair any tears in the dough with moistened fingertips.
  4. Place the chocolate bar in the center of the pie crust.
  5. Pour the pineapple mixture onto the chocolate bar. Using a spatula, spread the mixture out toward the edges of the dough, leaving about a 1-inch edge.
  6. Using fingertips, drag two opposite ends of pie crust to meet in the center, forming a rectangle. Brust the top of the crust with your milk or cream.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
  8. Remove from oven. Sprinkle with brown sugar and pepper, if desired. Garnish with berries.
  9. Using a sharp knife, divide into segments. Serve warm.