Sweet and Salty Gingerbread Pie
Medically reviewed by Christiana George Updated Date: June 9, 2023
I really love the flavors of gingerbread, the molasses, the brown sugar, and all the spices. I don’t know why I only use them for the holidays. Maybe because they are so addictive.
I know I ate more than my fair share of gingerbread cookies the other weekend when I was decorating them with the kids.
But this past weekend we had a party to go to and I knew I wanted to make something with gingerbread flavor.
So I found a recipe for gingerbread cookie bars which I stuffed with Gingerbread Twix Bars, baked it on top of a pretzel crust and topped it with a salted caramel cream cheese frosting. What? Yup! It’s a Sweet and Salty Gingerbread Pie to die for.
First up, is the pretzel crust. I lined a 10 inch round springform cake pan with parchment paper. I mixed all the ingredients together, pressed it into the pan, and baked it for 10 minutes.
Next came the deliciously spiced gingerbread center. It’s like a giant, soft gingerbread cookie filled with crunchy Gingerbread Twix. It’s chock full of sweet and spice.
To top it off, I choose a cream cheese frosting, but added salted caramel to it. No I didn’t make my own salted caramel, but you can if you want. I just used a caramel spread and added salt. It came out tangy and sweet, with a hint of salt. I even found these cute gingerbread man sprinkles from Wilton, at Walmart the other day. I thought they would be a perfect topper for my pie.
I just love all the layers of this pie. You have a salty, crumbly crust; a crunchy, sweet and spicy center; and a creamy, tangy topping. If you can’t find the Gingerbread Twix Bars, or don’t want the crunch in the middle, you can still make this pie without them. I liked the additional gingerbread and caramel flavor they gave to the pie.
I gave some to my neighbors for taste testing before I brought it to the party. They agreed it was delicious and their kids loved it too.
I had to stop myself from eating the whole slice. Well, at least all at once anyway. It’s sinfully good. Thankfully, the holiday season is that time of year when calorie counting gets tucked under a rug and I just enjoy all the festive sweets. Go on, take a bite with me!
Sweet and Salty Gingerbread Pie
by The Sweet Chick
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Keywords: bake dessert gingerbread twix cream cheese pretzels caramel Christmas bars cookie American winter
Ingredients (16 slices)
For the crust
- 1/2 cup all purpose flour
- 1 cup crushed pretzels
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
For the cookie bar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/3 cup molasses
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 egg
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped Gingerbread Twix bars (about 10-11 mini bars)
For the frosting
- 8 oz. package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup caramel spread/topping
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Additional toppings
- holiday sprinkles
Instructions
For the crust
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line the bottom of a 10 inch round springform cake pan with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl combine the flour, crushed pretzels, brown sugar, and baking soda.
Then add the melted butter and mix with a spoon until well combined and mixture in crumbly.
Dump mixture in the bottom of the springform pan and pressing with your hands, evenly distribute the mixture.
Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
Remove from oven and let cool in the pan.
For the cookie bar
Grease the remaining exposed sides of the pan. I used a stick of butter.
In a stand mixer, cream together the butter, sugar, molasses, and vanilla until smooth.
Add egg and mix for about 1 minute.
Next add the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt. Mix on low until well incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Lastly, add in the chopped Twix bars and mix until evenly distributed. You can also do this part by hand.
Place cookie mixture into greased pan on top of the pretzel crust. Spread mixture out with a spatula, making sure it as level as possible.
Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out mostly clean, with perhaps a few wet crumbs.
Remove from oven and let cool in the pan before frosting.
For the frosting
In a stand mixer, cream together the cheese and butter until smooth.
Then add the caramel and mix until evenly distributed.
Next add the powdered sugar and salt. Mix on low until smooth.
Using a spatula, frost the cooled off pie. You can do this with the springform sides on or take them off, then frost. Add holiday sprinkles if you wish.
Lastly, transfer the pie to a dish, then slice and serve!
Notes
Adding parchment paper at the bottom of the pan makes it easier to transfer the pie to a serving plate.
You can make the pie ahead of time and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just leave it out a bit at room temperature before slicing and serving. Or you can have your pie ready and just add the frosting right before serving.
If you can’t find Gingerbread Twix Bars, you can try Gingerbread M&Ms or just make the recipe without them.
Pretzel crust recipe from Baker’s Royale.
Cookie bar and frosting recipes adapted from Barefeet in the Kitchen.
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Are Nectarines Acidic? Nectarines and Acid Reflux
Acidity in fruits plays a crucial role in how they interact with our digestive system. Some fruits are more acidic than others, affecting their suitability for individuals with sensitive stomachs or acid reflux. Understanding a fruit’s acidity helps in making informed dietary choices that support digestive health.
Nectarines, a sweet and juicy stone fruit, are a favorite for their refreshing taste and nutrient profile. However, their acidity raises questions for those managing acid reflux or hyperacidity. Are nectarines acidic? Can they be part of a balanced diet for sensitive stomachs? Let’s dive into these questions to make better, health-conscious decisions.
What Determines a Fruit’s Acidity?
To assess whether nectarines are acidic, we need to understand how a fruit’s acidity is determined.
Understanding the pH Scale
The pH scale, ranging from 0 to 14, measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is:
- 0 to 6.9: Acidic
- 7: Neutral
- 7.1 to 14: Alkaline
Fruits with a pH below 7 are considered acidic. Citrus fruits like lemons and limes have pH values around 2 to 3, making them highly acidic. Low-acid fruits like melons and bananas have pH levels closer to neutral.
Discover pH of common food here
Acidity’s Impact on Digestion and Acid Reflux
Acidic foods can stimulate stomach acid production, which is helpful for digestion in most cases. However, for individuals with acid reflux, excess acid can irritate the esophagus, leading to discomfort or heartburn.
Low-acid or alkaline fruits are often recommended for such individuals, as they are gentler on the stomach and less likely to exacerbate reflux symptoms.
Are Nectarines Acidic?
Yes, nectarines are moderately acidic. Their pH range is typically between 3.9 and 4.2, placing them in the category of acidic fruits.
How Do Nectarines Compare to Other Fruits?
- Peaches: Nectarines are closely related to peaches and have a similar acidity level, with peaches ranging from 3.3 to 4.0 on the pH scale.
- Apples: Sweet apple varieties are less acidic, with pH levels closer to 4.5 to 5.5, making them a better option for individuals with acid reflux.
- Melons: Watermelon and cantaloupe are low-acid fruits with pH levels near 6, offering a gentler alternative.
While nectarines are not as acidic as citrus fruits (e.g., oranges or grapefruits), their moderate acidity can still affect those sensitive to acid.
Is Nectarine Good for Acid Reflux?
The relationship between nectarines and acid reflux depends on individual tolerance. Nectarines are moderately acidic, which means they may trigger symptoms in some individuals while being perfectly tolerable for others.
Tips for Managing Acid Reflux While Eating Nectarines
- Practice Portion Control
Eating small portions of nectarines can help minimize the risk of triggering reflux. Consuming too much fruit at once can overload the stomach, increasing pressure and acid production. - Pair Nectarines with Alkaline Foods
Combine nectarines with neutralizing foods like oatmeal, almonds, or yogurt. These pairings can balance the fruit’s acidity and create a more reflux-friendly meal. - Eat Nectarines Earlier in the Day
Consuming acidic foods earlier in the day allows your body more time to digest and reduces the likelihood of reflux at night.
When to Avoid Nectarines
If you experience heartburn, bloating, or discomfort after eating nectarines, it’s best to reduce your intake or avoid them entirely. Listening to your body and consulting a healthcare provider for personalized advice is crucial.
Are Nectarines Easy on the Stomach?
While their moderate acidity can cause issues for some, nectarines offer benefits that may support overall digestive health.
The Fiber Content of Nectarines
Nectarines are a good source of dietary fiber, with approximately 2 grams per medium-sized fruit. Fiber aids digestion by promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. For individuals without acid sensitivity, this makes nectarines a healthy addition to the diet.
Potential Challenges for Sensitive Stomachs
For people with acid reflux or hyperacidity, nectarines might cause discomfort due to their acidic nature. Symptoms can include heartburn, bloating, or nausea. However, tolerances vary widely, and some individuals may enjoy nectarines without issue.
How Do Nectarines Compare to Other Fruits in Acidity?
Nectarines are a moderately acidic fruit, with a pH level ranging from 3.9 to 4.2. But how does this compare to other commonly consumed fruits?
Comparison with Other Fruits
- Peaches
Nectarines and peaches are closely related, with similar pH levels. However, nectarines are slightly firmer and sometimes perceived as tangier, which may intensify their acidic profile. - Apples
Sweet apples, such as Fuji or Gala, are less acidic, with pH levels between 4.5 and 5.5, making them a better option for those with acid reflux. Tart apples like Granny Smith are closer to nectarines in acidity and may cause discomfort for sensitive individuals. - Berries
Many berries, such as raspberries and blackberries, are more acidic than nectarines, with pH levels ranging from 3.0 to 3.5. Blueberries are slightly less acidic, with a pH of around 3.3 to 3.5. - Bananas and Melons
Bananas and melons, including watermelon and cantaloupe, are some of the least acidic fruits. With pH levels closer to 6.0 to 6.9, they are gentle on the stomach and ideal for those with acid reflux.
Acidic Fruits to Avoid and Non-Acidic Alternatives
When managing acid reflux or hyperacidity, avoiding highly acidic fruits is essential. Here’s a closer look at which fruits to skip and their suitable substitutes.
Acidic Fruits to Avoid
- Citrus Fruits
- Lemons, oranges, grapefruits, and limes are among the most acidic, with pH levels between 2.0 and 3.5.
- Their high citric acid content can irritate the esophagus and worsen acid reflux symptoms.
- Pineapples
- With a pH of 3.0 to 4.0, pineapples are acidic and may trigger heartburn in sensitive individuals.
- Raspberries and Blackberries
- These berries have pH levels around 3.0, making them highly acidic despite their antioxidant benefits.
- Tomatoes
- Technically a fruit, tomatoes and their products (like sauces and juices) are highly acidic, with a pH of 3.5 to 4.7.
Non-Acidic Alternatives
- Bananas
- With a pH around 5.6 to 6.5, bananas are alkaline and help soothe the stomach.
- Melons
- Watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew are excellent low-acid fruits with high water content, ideal for hydration and digestion.
- Pears
- Sweet pears are mildly acidic, but far gentler on the stomach compared to most acidic fruits.
- Cucumbers and Sweet Potatoes
- These vegetables are alkaline and make excellent additions to a reflux-friendly diet.
Tip for Balance
Combine acidic fruits like nectarines with non-acidic options to balance your meal. For example, pair slices of nectarine with a bowl of alkaline oatmeal or yogurt to reduce acidity’s impact.
FAQs
Are nectarines and peaches citrus fruits?
No, nectarines and peaches are stone fruits, not citrus fruits. Despite their moderate acidity, they belong to the same family as cherries, plums, and apricots.
What is the most acidic fruit or vegetable?
Highly acidic fruits include lemons and limes, with pH levels around 2.0 to 2.5. Among vegetables, tomatoes are among the most acidic, particularly in concentrated forms like sauces or pastes.
What are the high alkaline fruits?
Alkaline fruits such as bananas, avocados, and melons (cantaloupe and honeydew) have pH levels closer to neutral, making them ideal for acid reflux sufferers.
What fruit does not have any citric acid?
Fruits like bananas, apples, and papayas are free of citric acid, making them gentler on the stomach compared to citrus fruits.
Conclusion
Nectarines, with their moderate acidity, can be a delicious addition to your diet but may not suit everyone, especially those prone to acid reflux. Compared to highly acidic fruits like citrus or berries, nectarines are less harsh but should still be consumed in moderation. Pairing them with alkaline foods or enjoying them as part of a balanced diet can help minimize their impact on sensitive stomachs.
If you experience discomfort, consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and dietary adjustments. Understanding your body’s needs is the key to enjoying nectarines and other fruits without compromising digestive health.
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