Shoofly Pie is a traditional American dessert that boasts a distinctive combination of molasses, brown sugar, and a buttery crumb topping. This delectable pie, with its rich and complex flavors, has its roots deeply embedded in American culinary history. Join us on a journey through time as we explore the origins, traditional ingredients, and step-by-step instructions to create this sweet and sticky delight.

The origins of Shoofly Pie can be traced back to the Pennsylvania Dutch, a group of German-speaking immigrants who settled in Pennsylvania during the 17th and 18th centuries. These settlers brought with them their baking traditions, which included using molasses as a sweetener, a staple ingredient in Shoofly Pie.

The name “Shoofly” is believed to have originated from the pie’s enticing aroma, which attracted flies and required the bakers to shoo them away. As a result, the pie became known as Shoofly Pie, capturing the essence of its humble and rustic origins.

Shoofly Pie became a beloved dessert in the Pennsylvania Dutch community, often enjoyed as a breakfast treat or an indulgence during special occasions. Its popularity spread across the United States, becoming a cherished part of American baking traditions.

PREP: 30 MIN

BAKE: 45 MIN.

MAKES: 6-8 SERVINGS

INGREDIENT

FOR THE CRUMB TOPPING:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces

FOR THE FILLING:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup boiling water
• 3/4 cup unsulfured molasses
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place a baking sheet in the oven to preheat as well.
2. In a medium bowl, prepare the crumb topping. Combine the flour and brown sugar. Add the cold, cut-up butter and blend it into the mixture using your fingertips or a pastry cutter until coarse crumbs form. Set the topping aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, dark brown sugar, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the boiling water, molasses, melted butter, and beaten egg. Mix well.
5. Gradually pour the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until the batter is smooth and well combined.
6. Pour the batter into an unbaked pie crust, spreading it evenly.
7. Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the batter, covering the entire surface.
8. Carefully place the pie on the preheated baking sheet in the oven.
9. Bake for approximately 40 to 45 minutes, or until the center of the pie is set and the crumb topping is golden brown.
10. Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

NOTES:

• Shoofly Pie is traditionally served at room temperature or slightly warm. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Delight in the sweet and sticky goodness of Shoofly Pie, paying homage to the traditions and heritage of the Pennsylvania Dutch. With its rich molasses flavor and irresistible crumb topping, this pie is sure to become a cherished part of your own baking repertoire.