Shoo Fly Pie Recipe: A Sweet Slice of History

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Shoo Fly Pie Recipe: A Sweet Slice of History

Shoo Fly Pie is an iconic dessert hailing from Pennsylvania Dutch country. Known for its rich, molasses-based filling and crumbly, sweet topping, this pie has roots deeply embedded in American history. It was created in the 1870s, shortly after the Civil War, when Pennsylvania Dutch bakers began experimenting with new ingredients, such as baking powder. This innovation allowed for lighter, fluffier pies, and soon the Shoo Fly Pie was born. The name “Shoo Fly” is thought to have come from the old-time practice of “shooing away” flies from the sweet molasses filling while it was cooling.

Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just indulging in a slice of nostalgia, Shoo Fly Pie is a beloved treat that has stood the test of time. Here’s a comprehensive recipe to bring a piece of history right to your kitchen.

Shoo Fly Pie Recipe

Ingredients

For the Crust:
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold)
  • 1/4 cup cold water (more if needed)
For the Filling:
  • 1 1/4 cups unsulfured molasses
  • 1/2 cup hot water
  • 1 large egg (lightly beaten)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
For the Crumble Topping:
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)

Instructions

1. Make the Crust:
  • In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
  • Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Gradually add the cold water, stirring until the dough comes together.
  • Form the dough into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  • Once chilled, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie pan.
  • Press the dough into the pan and trim any excess. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Filling:
  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the molasses, hot water, and beaten egg.
  • Add the baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt, mixing until smooth.
  • Stir in the melted butter until well combined.
  • Pour the molasses mixture into the prepared pie crust.
3. Make the Crumble Topping:
  • In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
  • Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture forms small, pea-sized crumbs.
  • Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the molasses filling.
4. Bake the Pie:
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Place the pie on the center rack and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling has set.
  • You can test the pie by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the pie is ready.
  • Let the pie cool before slicing. It’s best served at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Method Overview:

  1. Prepare and chill the pie crust.
  2. Whisk together the molasses filling ingredients.
  3. Create the crumbly topping.
  4. Bake the pie until the filling is set and the topping is golden.

History & Formation of Shoo Fly Pie

Shoo Fly Pie is believed to be a product of the Pennsylvania Dutch settlers, who were of German descent. The recipe came about during a period when baking powder, a new ingredient, allowed for the creation of lighter, fluffier pastries. Prior to this innovation, pies were typically dense and heavy. The advent of baking powder was revolutionary in pie-making, as it added a leavening agent that created air pockets, making the pie more delicate.

The name “Shoo Fly” is linked to the molasses filling, which was so sweet and sticky that it attracted flies. Bakers would often have to “shoo” away pesky insects from the cooling pies, hence the whimsical name.

Shoo Fly Pie became especially popular in rural Pennsylvania Dutch communities, where the ingredients were affordable and readily available. It’s a simple yet deeply flavorful pie that draws from the traditional Germanic influence of sweet, dense desserts.

Conclusion: Why We Love Shoo Fly Pie

Shoo Fly Pie is a time-honored dessert that has been passed down through generations, retaining its popularity despite changing culinary trends. Its rich, comforting flavor evokes nostalgia and connects us to the traditions of our ancestors. With its deep molasses flavor, spiced topping, and flaky crust, Shoo Fly Pie is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a dish that is much more than the sum of its parts.

Whether you’re a lover of history, baking, or just good food, Shoo Fly Pie is a beloved treat that will transport you to another time, all while filling your home with the irresistible scent of sweet molasses.

Lovers of Shoo Fly Pie:

  • The History Buff: The story behind this dessert is fascinating—perfect for anyone who loves a slice of American history.
  • The Baker: A classic pie that lets bakers experiment with textures and flavors. The mix of molasses and spice creates a warm, inviting taste.
  • The Comfort Food Enthusiast: There’s something about Shoo Fly Pie that feels like a hug in dessert form. It’s comforting, homey, and perfect for cozy gatherings.
  • The Molasses Fan: If you love the rich, complex taste of molasses, Shoo Fly Pie is your dream come true.

Shoo Fly Pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a delicious bite of history. So, gather your ingredients, bake a pie, and enjoy the taste of tradition!

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