Copycat Taco Bell Mountain Dew Baja Blast Pie Recipe

by Jenny
Taco Bell Mountain Dew Baja Blast Pie

The Taco Bell Mountain Dew Baja Blast Pie brings a refreshing twist to dessert culture, merging the iconic tropical-lime flavor of a legendary drink with the creamy, indulgent textures of a classic pie.

What is Taco Bell Mountain Dew Baja Blast Pie?

The Baja Blast Pie is a limited-edition dessert from Taco Bell, inspired by the drink Mountain Dew Baja Blast.

Ingredients:

For The Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 full crackers)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For The Filling:

  • 1 cup Mountain Dew Baja Blast
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • ½ cup fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest
  • 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix (for extra structure)
  • Optional: a few drops of teal or turquoise gel food coloring for the signature color

For The Topping:

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Lime zest or whipped cream dollops for decoration

Instructions:

Prepare The Crust:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
  3. Add melted butter and stir until evenly coated.
  4. Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie dish, covering the bottom and sides.
  5. Bake for 8–10 minutes, until lightly golden and set.
  6. Cool completely before adding the filling.

Make The Filling:

  1. Pour the Mountain Dew Baja Blast into a small saucepan.
  2. Simmer over medium heat for 5–7 minutes to reduce the liquid by about ⅓ and intensify the flavor.
  3. Let it cool to room temperature.
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and lime juice until smooth.
  5. Add the cooled Baja Blast reduction, lime zest, and pudding mix.
  6. Mix until the texture is thick, smooth, and slightly glossy.
  7. Add food coloring to achieve the Baja Blast blue-green shade.

Bake The Pie:

  1. Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
  2. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 15–18 minutes, until the center is mostly set and slightly jiggles.
  3. Cool the pie at room temperature for 30 minutes.
  4. Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Prepare The Whipped Topping:

  1. In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
  2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
  3. Continue whipping until firm peaks develop.
  4. Spoon or pipe over the chilled pie.
  5. Sprinkle lime zest on top for decoration.

Tips For Best Taco Bell Mountain Dew Baja Blast Pie:

  • Reduce the soda: Simmering the Baja Blast strengthens the flavor and prevents the filling from being too runny.
  • Cool the reduction: Hot soda reduction can curdle the eggs if added too soon.
  • Use key lime juice for a sharper citrus balance, or regular lime juice for a smoother flavor.
  • Chill thoroughly: Cold temperature helps the pie slice cleanly and improves the texture.
  • Use gel food color sparingly: A drop or two gives the vibrant Baja Blast hue without overpowering the filling.
  • Whip cream by hand or with a stand mixer: Keep the cream cold for stable peaks.
  • Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

What To Serve with Taco Bell Mountain Dew Baja Blast Pie

Complementary Drinks:

  • Mountain Dew Baja Blast (Classic or Zero Sugar): The most natural pairing is the drink that inspired the Taco Bell Mountain Dew Baja blast pie. Serve it ice-cold, with a wedge of lime or a rim of sugar on the glass. The carbonation brightens the creamy texture of the pie and reinforces its signature tropical flavor.
  • Sparkling Limeade: A homemade limeade with club soda or sparkling water works beautifully. The acidity cuts through the richness of the pie and refreshes the palate after each bite.
  • Coconut Cream Soda or Piña Colada Mocktail: A creamy coconut drink highlights the tropical character of the Taco Bell Mountain Dew Baja blast pie without overpowering it. Mix coconut milk, pineapple juice, and soda water for a non-alcoholic pairing with a velvety finish.
  • Green Tea or Iced Matcha Latte: Light, earthy flavors from tea balance the pie’s sweetness. Matcha’s color also visually complements the bright turquoise pie.

Savory Companions:

  • Spicy Chicken Quesadillas or Tacos: The spice of a chipotle or jalapeño chicken taco contrasts with the cool, sweet tang of the pie. The heat enhances the pie’s refreshing quality.
  • Citrus-Marinated Shrimp Skewers: Grilled shrimp with lime, garlic, and cilantro echoes the pie’s citrus undertones while providing a salty counterpoint..
  • Mexican Street Corn (Elote): The smoky, buttery corn topped with cotija cheese and chili powder makes an excellent main course companion before dessert. Its creaminess transitions naturally to the pie’s smooth texture.

Sweet Pairings And Garnishes:

  • Lime or Pineapple Sorbet: A scoop of sorbet adds temperature contrast and sharp acidity. It keeps the dessert light, especially after a rich meal.
  • Coconut Macaroons: Their chewiness provides a textural complement to the silky pie. The coconut also matches the tropical notes of Baja Blast.
  • Fresh Fruit Garnish: Add slices of kiwi, pineapple, mango, or lime wheels around the plate. Their natural acidity refreshes the taste buds and enhances the presentation.

Alcoholic Pairings (Optional for Adult Menus):

  • Citrus Margarita: Lime, tequila, and triple sec amplify the tangy notes of the pie.
  • Blue Curaçao Spritz: Its color mirrors the pie’s teal tone, creating a cohesive presentation.
  • Rum Punch: A mixture of rum, pineapple, and coconut enhances the tropical theme.

Health Benefits

Energy And Macronutrient Contribution:

  • Carbohydrates for Quick Energy: The crust and filling contain sugars and starches that serve as a quick energy source for the body. Carbohydrates help fuel brain function and physical activity, especially when eaten occasionally within an overall diet that includes fiber, protein, and unsaturated fats.
  • Fats Supporting Satiety and Flavor: Butter and egg yolks provide fats that contribute to the pie’s smooth texture. Fats play roles in vitamin absorption (A, D, E, K) and cell function. Consumed moderately, these can help sustain energy and reduce cravings after eating.
  • Protein Content from Eggs and Milk: Egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk add small amounts of protein. Protein supports tissue repair, enzyme production, and muscle maintenance. Although the pie is not high in protein, it contributes to a complete nutrient profile when paired with other foods.

Micronutrients Present in Small Quantities:

  • Calcium: Condensed milk and whipped cream toppings offer calcium, important for bone and dental strength. A single serving provides a minor contribution to daily calcium needs.
  • Vitamin A and D: Egg yolks naturally contain small amounts of vitamins A and D. These fat-soluble vitamins support immune health, skin integrity, and bone metabolism.
  • Trace Minerals: Graham crackers and eggs provide trace minerals such as iron, phosphorus, and selenium, which aid in energy metabolism and antioxidant activity.

Psychological And Social Benefits:

  • Mood Enhancement: Sweet foods can temporarily increase serotonin and dopamine activity, producing a pleasant sense of well-being. The bright color and nostalgic flavor of Baja Blast can also create positive emotional associations and comfort.
  • Social Connection: Desserts like this pie are often shared among friends or at gatherings. Eating together encourages social bonding, reduces stress, and promotes a sense of belonging.
  • Mindful Enjoyment: When consumed slowly and consciously, even a rich dessert can support mindful eating practices. This can reduce overeating and strengthen awareness of fullness cues.
  • Hydration And Flavor Variation: Although Mountain Dew Baja Blast itself contains caffeine and sugar, its flavor profile provides a refreshing, citrus-inspired experience that may increase fluid intake when paired with water-rich foods or beverages. Enjoying the pie with a glass of water or tea helps balance sugar concentration and maintain hydration.

Final Thoughts

The Taco Bell Mountain Dew Baja Blast Pie represents the creativity and excitement that come from transforming an iconic beverage into a dessert experience.

More Recipes:

Taco Bell Mountain Dew Baja Blast Pie
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Taco Bell Mountain Dew Baja Blast Pie

Rating: 5.0/5
( 1 voted )
Serves: 4 Prep Time: Cooking Time: Nutrition facts: 320 calories 13 grams fat

Ingredients

For The Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 full crackers)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For The Filling:

  • 1 cup Mountain Dew Baja Blast
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • ½ cup fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest
  • 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix (for extra structure)
  • Optional: a few drops of teal or turquoise gel food coloring for the signature color

For The Topping:

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Lime zest or whipped cream dollops for decoration

Instructions

Prepare The Crust:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
  3. Add melted butter and stir until evenly coated.
  4. Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie dish, covering the bottom and sides.
  5. Bake for 8–10 minutes, until lightly golden and set.
  6. Cool completely before adding the filling.

Make the Filling:

  1. Pour the Mountain Dew Baja Blast into a small saucepan.
  2. Simmer over medium heat for 5–7 minutes to reduce the liquid by about ⅓ and intensify the flavor.
  3. Let it cool to room temperature.
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and lime juice until smooth.
  5. Add the cooled Baja Blast reduction, lime zest, and pudding mix.
  6. Mix until the texture is thick, smooth, and slightly glossy.
  7. Add food coloring to achieve the Baja Blast blue-green shade.

Bake The Pie:

  1. Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
  2. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 15–18 minutes, until the center is mostly set and slightly jiggles.
  3. Cool the pie at room temperature for 30 minutes.
  4. Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Prepare the Whipped Topping:

  1. In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
  2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
  3. Continue whipping until firm peaks develop.
  4. Spoon or pipe over the chilled pie.
  5. Sprinkle lime zest on top for decoration.

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