Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 (29 ounce) can peaches, sliced, undrained
  • 1 (16 ounce) can plums, drained, pitted, quartered
  • 1 (16 ounce) can pear halves, drained, sliced
  • 1/2 cup maraschino cherry, halved
  • 3/4 cup slivered almonds
  • 3/4 cup golden raisin
  • 1/2 cup dark raisin
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • DOUGH
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/3 cup vegetable shortening, cold
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • TOPPING
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (again)

Method

  • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • In a small container, mix cornstarch with 4 tablespoons of syrup from the peaches.
  • In a large bowl, combine cornstarch mixture, peaches, plums, pears, maraschino cherries, almonds, raisins, brown sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg.
  • Pour into a shallow 2-1/2 quart casserole.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  • Cut in the cold shortening until mixture is coarse; stir in the sour cream until blended.
  • On a floured surface, toss the dough lightly to coat with flour.
  • Knead/roll the dough 8-10 times with a floured rolling pin.
  • Roll it carefully into a 1/2" thick shape slightly smaller than the casserole, trimming the edges if necessary.
  • Cut a 2" circle in the center or use a small cookie cutter to cut a decorative design or two near the center.
  • Carefully place this pastry dough on top of the fruit mixture, with the edge of the dough NOT touching the sides of the baking dish.
  • Brush top lightly with milk and sprinkle with sugar.
  • Bake about 40 to 45 minutes or until the pastry is a dark golden brown.
  • Cool at least 25 minutes before serving.