Paifala (American Samoa) - Half-Moon Pies Recipe

Name: Paifala (American Samoa) - Half-Moon Pies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: For the filling; 2 cups drained crushed pineapple; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup milk; 1/3 cup cornstarch; 1/3 cup reserved juice from crushed pineapple; For the piecrust; 3 cups flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/3 cup butter; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 pinch salt

Servings: persons

For the filling
2 cups drained crushed pineapple
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup milk
1/3 cup cornstarch
1/3 cup reserved juice from crushed pineapple
For the piecrust
3 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/3 cup butter
1 cup coconut milk
1 pinch salt

1
Combine the pineapple, sugar and milk into a saucepan and heat until simmering. Be careful not to boil or the milk will curdle.
2
Now mix the cornstarch with the reserved pineapple juice until it is smooth, and add to the pineapple. Stir until the mixture thickens, then remove from the heat and let cool.
3
Put all of the dough ingredients into a bowl and blend until a dough forms. Divide the dough into five parts, then roll each part into an 8-inch circle.
4
Spread some onto one half of each circle. Fold the other half over the top, stopping about a quarter inch from the edge. Fold the bottom quarter inch over the top edge, then crimp with a fork. Repeat until you've finished all of your pies.
5
Prick a couple of holes in the top and put into a 375 degree oven for 30 to 35 minutes.

826

kcal

Calories

Fat

152

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Preheat the oven fully and bake on the middle rack for the most even results.
Check for doneness a few minutes early — a toothpick in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
Let it cool before slicing so it sets properly and holds its shape.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.
A good 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well if you need a gluten-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 12 ingredients. The key ingredients include: For the filling, 2 cups drained crushed pineapple, 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup milk, and more.

Yes, Paifala (American Samoa) - Half-Moon Pies falls under the Baking & Desserts category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months — no need to refrigerate or reheat.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Paifala (American Samoa) - Half-Moon Pies

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions