How to Make the Perfect Shoofly Pie

 

How to Make the Perfect Shoofly Pie

Pies have been a beloved dessert for centuries, but one particular variety is making a comeback—shoofly pie. This rich, molasses-based pie, a classic from the Pennsylvania Dutch tradition, is now a trending pie recipe in bakeries and home kitchens. With its deep, caramel-like flavour and crumbly topping, shoofly pie is capturing the attention of dessert lovers worldwide.

What is Shoofly Pie?

Before diving into the recipe, let’s explore what makes shoofly pie so special. Unlike fruit pies, shoofly pie has a gooey, molasses-filled centre and a crisp, buttery crust. The name supposedly comes from the way the sweet molasses attracts flies, requiring constant shooing away. Originally served as a breakfast treat, this delicious pie is now a trending dessert, enjoyed in both traditional and modern variations.

Ingredients for Shoofly Pie

To make the perfect shoofly pie, you’ll need:

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups plain flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
• 3-4 tablespoons cold water

For the Filling:

• ¾ cup molasses
• ¾ cup boiling water
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 beaten egg

For the Crumb Topping:

• 1 cup plain flour
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)

Step-by-Step Shoofly Pie Recipe

1. Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by mixing the flour and salt in a bowl. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Roll it out and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Chill while preparing the filling.

2. Make the Filling

In a bowl, dissolve the baking soda in boiling water. Stir in the molasses, followed by the beaten egg. Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust.

3. Create the Crumb Topping

In another bowl, mix flour and brown sugar. Cut in the softened butter until crumbs form. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the filling.

4. Bake the Pie

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the shoofly pie for 35-40 minutes until the filling is set and the crumb topping is golden brown. Let it cool before slicing.

Why Shoofly Pie is a Trending Pie Recipe

With people rediscovering nostalgic desserts, shoofly pie has become a trending pie recipe. Its simple ingredients, rich flavour, and history make it a favourite among home bakers and professional chefs alike. Whether served with coffee for breakfast or as a dessert with whipped cream, shoofly pie offers comfort in every bite.

Enjoying Shoofly Pie

Now that you have the perfect shoofly pie recipe, it’s time to indulge in this classic treat. Whether you stick to tradition or experiment with variations like chocolate or spices, shoofly pie is a must-try dessert that never goes out of style.