Copycat Crumbl Aloha Pie Recipe

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As someone completely obsessed with Crumbl Cookies (seriously, their weekly menu has me hooked), I couldn’t resist the challenge of replicating the heavenly goodness of their Crumbl Aloha Pie. With its creamy coconut-infused vanilla bean mousse and decadent cookies-and-cream crust, this dessert is a show-stopper. The fudgy topping, toasted macadamia nuts, and dollops of whipped cream make it an irresistible treat for family gatherings, celebrations, or just a little indulgent reward after a long day.

How to make Crumbl Aloha Pie

Crumbl Aloha Pie (sometimes called Hawaiian Pie or Hula Pie) is a limited‑time summer dessert available this summer.

Ingredients

For the Cookies-and-Cream Crust:

• 24 chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos), crushed into fine crumbs
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Vanilla Coconut Mousse:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup coconut cream (found in most grocery stores near the canned goods or baking section)

For the Chocolate Fudge Topping:

• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Toppings:

• 1/4 cup toasted macadamia nuts, roughly chopped
• Whipped cream, for garnish
• Toasted coconut flakes (optional, for added flavor and texture)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cookies-and-Cream Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch pie pan or springform pan. Use a flat object (like the bottom of a cup) to ensure it’s even.
4. Bake the crust for 8 minutes, then let it cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Vanilla Coconut Mousse

1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla bean paste using a hand or stand mixer. Whip until stiff peaks form (when you lift the whisk, the cream should stand tall without collapsing). Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then slowly fold in the coconut cream.
3. Gently fold the whipped cream mixture into the cream cheese and coconut mixture, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream too much.

Step 3: Add the Mousse Layer

1. Spread the vanilla coconut mousse evenly over the cooled cookies-and-cream crust. Use a spatula to create a smooth and level surface.
2. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the mousse layer is firm.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Fudge Topping

1. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat until it begins to simmer.
2. Pour the hot cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 1 minute, then whisk until smooth and shiny.
3. Once the mousse has set, pour the chocolate topping evenly over it, spreading it with a spatula to cover the surface.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Serve!

1. Sprinkle the toasted macadamia nuts over the chocolate layer, along with additional decorations like toasted coconut flakes (if desired).
2. Pipe whipped cream along the edges or in the center for garnish.
3. Serve chilled and enjoy a taste of the tropics!

Tips for Making the Perfect Aloha Pie

• Use Cold Ingredients for the Mousse: When making whipped cream or mousse, cold heavy cream is key for achieving the perfect fluffy texture. You can even chill your bowl and whisk attachment beforehand to keep everything cool.
• Toast the Macadamia Nuts: Toasting the macadamia nuts brings out their natural oils and enhances their nutty flavor. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden.
• Make It Ahead of Time: This pie is best when allowed to chill for a while. Make it the day before you plan to serve it, allowing all the layers to set fully.
• Experiment with the Coconut Flavor: If you’re a huge coconut fan, you can add some shredded, toasted coconut to the mousse layer or use it as a garnish to intensify the tropical vibe.
• Go Nut-Free If Necessary: If macadamia nuts aren’t your thing or you have an allergy, you can swap them out for crushed graham crackers, mini chocolate chips, or omit them altogether.
• Clean Slices Every Time: Use a sharp knife to cut the pie and wipe it clean between each slice to avoid dragging crumbs or layers across.

What to serve with

Crumbl Aloha Pie is a delightful cookie inspired by the tropical flavors found in Hawaiian desserts. It is an indulgent treat that combines crumbly textures and lush flavors, typically featuring coconut, pineapple, and sometimes hints of macadamia nuts.

1. Tropical Drinks

Pairing this cookie with a refreshing beverage will help balance the sweetness and elevate the tropical theme. Some options include:

a. Pineapple Mocktail: A chilled pineapple mocktail or juice works beautifully with the cookie’s flavor profile. Combine pineapple juice, a splash of club soda, and garnish with a wedge of lime or mint.

b. Coconut Water or Coconut Lime Refreshers: Serve coconut water as a light, hydrating option, or mix it with a splash of lime juice for a subtle citrus kick.

c. Mango Smoothie: A creamy mango smoothie made with fresh mangoes, yogurt, and honey provides a luxurious fruity finish that pairs wonderfully with the Crumbl Aloha Pie.

2. Fresh Fruit Platter

Sticking with the tropical theme, complement the Crumbl Aloha Pie with a mix of fruits that enhance its flavors. Suggested fruits include:

• Pineapple chunks: Bring out the pineapple notes of the cookie.
• Kiwi slices: Add some tanginess and vibrant color.
• Banana slices: Pair its soft texture with the crumbly cookie.
• Mango cubes: Highlight the tropical sweetness.

3. Ice Cream or Frozen Desserts

The creaminess of frozen desserts contrasts beautifully with the rich, buttery cookie texture. Some options to consider:

a. Coconut Ice Cream: This creamy ice cream enhances the cookie’s tropical vibe and pairs wonderfully with its coconut flavor.

b. Pineapple Sorbet: A light and refreshing pineapple sorbet complements the Crumbl Aloha Pie, adding a bright citrus profile.

c. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: For a neutral, timeless pairing, vanilla bean ice cream balances the cookie’s bold flavors.

d. Banana Nice Cream: Make a simple banana “nice cream” by blending frozen bananas until smooth for a healthy and delicious pairing.

Ingredients Substitutes

If you’re planning to recreate Crumbl Aloha Pie at home or adapt the recipe to accommodate dietary preferences, allergies, or ingredient availability, you may need to use substitutes for some of the ingredients typically found in the original cookie.

1. Flour Substitutes

Flour serves as the main structure for the Crumbl Aloha Pie. If you’re looking for alternatives due to dietary restrictions like gluten intolerance or simply to experiment with textures:

a. Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour

• Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (many blends include xanthan gum for binding).
• Brands like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur Baking are good options.

b. Almond Flour

• Replace regular flour with almond flour for a nutty, slightly dense texture. Use a ratio of 1 cup flour = 1 cup almond flour with slightly less liquid.

c. Coconut Flour

• Incorporating coconut flour adds to the tropical flavor. However, coconut flour absorbs a lot of moisture, so use only about 1/4 cup for every 1 cup of all-purpose flour and increase the liquid (or eggs) slightly.

2. Sugar Substitutes

For altering sweetness levels or accommodating sugar-free diets:

a. Coconut Sugar: A great natural substitute that complements the tropical flavors. Use a 1:1 ratio.

b. Brown Sugar or Honey: Brown sugar provides moisture and a caramel-like depth, while honey adds a floral sweetness. Use them sparingly, as honey can make the cookie dough stickier.

c. Monk Fruit Sweetener or Erythritol: These zero-calorie sweeteners are a great substitute for granulated sugar or brown sugar in sugar-free recipes.

3. Butter Substitutes

Butter provides richness and structure. If you’re looking for non-dairy or healthier alternatives:

a. Coconut Oil: Replace butter with solid coconut oil, which adds an extra boost of tropical flavor. Use it in an equal 1:1 ratio.

b. Vegan Butter: For a dairy-free version, vegan butter (like Earth Balance or Miyoko’s) provides the same texture.

c. Applesauce or Greek Yogurt: Substitute half the butter with unsweetened applesauce or plain Greek yogurt to reduce fat while maintaining moisture. Note that this will slightly affect crispiness.

4. Egg Substitutes

Eggs serve as binding agents. For a vegan-friendly or allergy-friendly recipe:

a. Flax Egg: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water to replace 1 egg.

b. Mashed Banana or Applesauce: 1/4 cup of mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce can replace one egg. These also add natural sweetness.

c. Aquafaba: Use 3 tablespoons of aquafaba (the liquid in a can of chickpeas) to replace one egg.

5. Sweetened Condensed Milk (in the Aloha Pie Topping)

The creamy topping on Aloha Pie usually involves sweetened condensed milk. If you need substitutes:

a. Coconut Cream: For a lactose-free and tropical alternative, use canned coconut cream mixed with a touch of sugar.

b. Evaporated Milk + Sugar: Combine 1 cup evaporated milk with 1 cup sugar and simmer until slightly thickened.

c. Plant-Based Condensed Milk: Many brands offer dairy-free condensed milk made from oats, almonds, or coconut. Check stores for options like Nature’s Charm.

6. Shredded Coconut

Shredded coconut is a key ingredient in Aloha Pie. If you don’t have it, or want to modify the recipe:

a. Toasted Coconut Chips: Thinly sliced toasted coconut works beautifully as a substitute, adding extra crunch.

b. Almond Flour or Ground Nuts: While it won’t taste the same, almond flour or finely ground macadamia nuts can serve as a substitute for shredded coconut, offering a nutty alternative.

c. Oats: Use finely chopped, unsweetened oats as a replacement for texture without the coconut flavor.

7. Pineapple Ingredients

Pineapple is a signature flavor in Aloha Pie, typically incorporated into the topping or cookie itself.

a. Frozen Pineapple: If fresh pineapple isn’t available, frozen pineapple chunks (thawed and drained) work as a substitute.

b. Canned Pineapple: Use canned pineapple chunks or crushed pineapple, but drain thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

c. Pineapple Extract: If you don’t have actual pineapple, a small amount of pineapple extract (about 1/4 teaspoon) can boost the flavor.

8. Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia nuts, often used in Crumbl’s recipe, enhance the tropical profile. If they’re unavailable or you need alternatives:

a. Almonds or Cashews: Chopped almonds or cashews provide a similar crunch and mild flavor. Cashews have a slightly creamier texture.

b. Pecans or Walnuts: These nuts add their unique texture and richness but will change the flavor slightly.

c. Nut-Free Option: For those with nut allergies, consider sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as alternatives for a similar crunch.

9. Flavor Extracts

Vanilla and coconut extracts are often used to enhance the tropical experience. If you’re missing any:

a. Coconut Milk or Cream: Replace coconut extract with actual coconut milk or cream for a more natural coconut flavor.

b. Pure Almond Extract: Almond extract provides a similar sweet, nutty aroma when coconut extract is unavailable.

Final Thoughts

By following these steps, you’ll have your very own Crumbl Aloha Pie to enjoy at home. It’s rich, creamy, and filled with summery tropical flavors that are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

More Pie Recipes:

• Apple Crumble Pie Topping Recipe
• Copycat Dunkin’ Braided Apple Pie Recipe
• Oreo Blueberry Pie Recipe
• McDonald’s Blueberry & Creme Pie Recipe
• Oreo Dirt Pie Blizzard Recipe