Hawaiian Passion Fruit Chiffon Pie

For the Pie Filling:

Step 1: Set a pan of water over medium-high heat and bring to a steady simmer. Make sure the water level is low enough that a bowl set on top won't touch it. Lower the heat slightly and keep simmering.

Step 2: In a small bowl add the 4 tablespoons of cold water and sprinkle the gelatin over to soften.

Step 3: In a bowl that will fit over the pan of simmering water, whisk the egg yolks until thickened and lighter in color, add in passion fruit pulp and juice (or puree), 1/2 C of sugar and salt. Set over the pan of simmering water and whisk until thickened. About 8-10 minutes. Being careful to stir constantly so the egg doesn’t scramble.

Step 4: Add in the softened gelatin and stir until melted. Remove from heat and cool until thickened and slightly congealed on top.

Step 5: Whip the egg whites until foamy, slowly add in the remaining sugar and then whip until stiff peaks are formed and the meringue is glossy.

Step 6: Fold into the passion fruit mixture and stir until fully combined. Fill the pie crust with the mixture and chill at least 4 hours up to overnight.

To make the Frosting:

Step 7: Using the same double boiler method as the pie filling, set a pan of simmering water over the stove.

Step 8: In a bowl that fits the pan but won't be touching the water, whisk the frosting ingredients except for the vanilla for one minute using a hand mixer.

Step 9: Set the bowl over the simmering water and continue to mix on high for 7 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract. Let cool slightly then spread on the top of the chilled pie. Garnish with passion fruit pulp over the top and serve.

NOTE: Passion Fruit can be found at specialty markets or in the tropical food sections of most well-stocked grocery stores. Same with passion fruit juice and frozen puree. If you can't find it locally, I'd recommend googling Aunty Lilikoi passion fruit juice, as it can be ordered online through them as an online option. It is a good choice since it is a thicker juice that is 100% passion fruit and not thinned out with water or other fruit juices and no added sweeteners. It's nice and tart.