Shoofly Pie, a dessert that echoes the simplicity and ingenuity of early American cooking, is a beloved treat with roots deeply planted in Pennsylvania Dutch country. This molasses-rich pie, with its crumbly topping and gooey, sweet filling, is a testament to the resourcefulness of the Pennsylvania Dutch settlers. It’s a dish that has endured the test of time, evolving from a practical breakfast food to a cherished dessert served at gatherings, holidays, and everything in between.
The Origins of Shoofly Pie
The history of Shoofly Pie dates back to the late 19th century, originating among the Pennsylvania Dutch communities. The pie's name is subject to much speculation, with some stories suggesting it was named after a popular brand of molasses, while others believe the name comes from the flies that had to be "shooed" away while the pie cooled on windowsills. What's undeniable is the pie's practicality; made from staple ingredients that could be stored without refrigeration, Shoofly Pie was a perfect fit for the Pennsylvania Dutch lifestyle.
The pie is closely related to the "Centennial
Cake," a recipe that gained popularity after the 1876 Centennial
Exposition in Philadelphia. It's thought that Shoofly Pie evolved from this
cake, becoming a simpler, more rustic dessert that could be enjoyed at any
meal.
How to Make Shoofly Pie
Ingredients:
1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup molasses
3/4 cup boiling water
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 egg, beaten
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the filling: In a bowl, mix the molasses, boiling water, and baking soda. Add the beaten egg and stir until well combined. Pour this mixture into the pie crust.
Make the crumb topping: In another bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this crumb topping evenly over the molasses mixture in the pie crust.
Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crumb topping is golden brown.
Cool: Allow the pie to cool before serving, giving the filling time to firm up.
The Enduring Legacy of Shoofly Pie
Shoofly Pie has not only become a symbol of Pennsylvania Dutch heritage but also a beloved dessert across the United States. Its rich, sweet flavor and unique texture make it a standout among American pies, and its history offers a glimpse into the resourceful spirit of early American settlers.