Shoofly Pie Dessert: A Sweet Dive into Tradition and Flavor

Shoofly Pie Dessert is a delightful treat that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. Originating from the Pennsylvania Dutch community, this pie has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. It was traditionally made by farmers’ wives who wanted to create a sweet dessert using simple, readily available ingredients. The name “shoofly” is said to come from the need to “shoo” away flies that were attracted to the sweet, sticky filling.

What I love most about Shoofly Pie Dessert is its unique combination of flavors and textures. The rich, molasses-based filling is perfectly complemented by a crumbly topping, creating a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly convenient to make, making it a favorite for gatherings and family dinners. Whether you’re a fan of traditional desserts or just looking to try something new, Shoofly Pie Dessert is sure to impress and satisfy your sweet cravings!

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-made 9-inch pie crust (or homemade if you prefer)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup molasses
• 1/2 cup hot water
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparing the Pie Crust

1. If you’re using a pre-made pie crust, take it out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to work with. 2. If you’re making a homemade pie crust, combine 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter in a mixing bowl. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. 3. Gradually add 3 to 4 tablespoons of ice water, mixing until the dough comes together. Form it into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. 4. Once chilled, roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit your 9-inch pie pan. Transfer the dough to the pan, trim the edges, and crimp them if desired. Place the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.

Making the Filling

5. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt until well combined. This will be the dry mixture for your filling. 6. In a separate large bowl, combine the melted butter, molasses, hot water, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well blended. 7. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Assembling the Pie

8. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). 9. Remove the pie crust from the refrigerator and pour the filling into the prepared crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. 10. If you like, you can sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top for added flavor and presentation.

Baking the Pie

11. Place the pie on the middle rack of the preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. 12. Keep an eye on the crust; if it starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil to prevent burning. 13. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour. This cooling time allows the filling to firm up a bit more.

Serving the Pie

14. After the pie has cooled, slice it into wedges. I love serving it warm, but it’s also delicious at room temperature. 15. For an extra treat, serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture pairs beautifully with the rich, sweet filling of the shoofly pie.

Storing Leftovers

16. If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. 17. To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through. Enjoy the comforting flavors all over again!

Tips for Success

18. Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before you start. This helps them combine more easily and results in a smoother filling. 19. If you want to add a twist to your shoofly pie, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the filling for added texture and flavor. 20. Don’t skip the spices! They are essential for giving the pie its signature taste. Adjust the spices to your liking if you prefer a spicier or milder flavor. Now that you have all the steps

Conclusion:

In summary, this Shoofly Pie dessert is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a slice of history and flavor. With its rich, molasses-infused filling and crumbly topping, it’s a delightful treat that brings warmth and nostalgia to any gathering. Whether you’re serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream, this pie is sure to impress your family and friends. Feel free to get creative with variations! You can add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced twist, or even incorporate some chopped nuts for added texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the molasses for maple syrup for a different flavor profile that still honors the traditional roots of this beloved dessert. I encourage you to give this Shoofly Pie recipe a try and share your experience with me! I’d love to hear how it turned out for you and any personal touches you added. Remember, baking is all about experimenting and making it your own. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s create something delicious together!

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