Double Pie, a comforting and indulgent dessert, stands as a testament to the art of layering flavors and textures. This time-honored creation embodies the joy of baking and the warmth of tradition. With its dual layers of sweetness and its rich history, Double Pie evokes a sense of nostalgia and invites us to journey through the culinary traditions that have been passed down through generations.

The origins of Double Pie can be traced back to a time when home baking was a cherished ritual, and families gathered around the table to share meals made with love and care. In the heart of these bustling kitchens, inventive minds sought to create a pie that would delight both the senses and the soul.

The concept of layering different flavors within a single pie was born, giving rise to the name “Double Pie.” Each layer was thoughtfully crafted to complement and enhance the other, creating a symphony of tastes that harmonized into a single, delightful dish.

The creation of Double Pie became a reflection of the artistry and resourcefulness of the bakers who embraced it. The top layer, delicately balanced between sweetness and lightness, was composed of a blend of sugar, sweet milk, eggs, flour, and the secret ingredient—Crisco. This mixture, a dance of flavors and textures, was carefully spread over the under layer to create a harmonious union.

The under layer, a rich concoction of molasses, brown sugar, and the zesty essence of lemon, provided a deep and earthy foundation. The inclusion of hot water resulted in a luscious, syrupy filling that mingled seamlessly with the layers above.

The act of baking Double Pie was an act of love, as the pie transformed in the oven, turning into a golden masterpiece that radiated warmth and comfort. The final product was a celebration of both culinary expertise and familial bonds, a testament to the legacy of shared recipes and cherished moments.

INGREDIENTS

Top Layer:

• 1 cupful sugar
• 1 cupful sweet milk
• 2 eggs
• 2 cupfuls flour
• 1/2 cupful Crisco
• 2 teaspoonfuls baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoonful salt

Under Layer:

• 1 cupful molasses
• 1 cupful brown sugar
• 1 pint hot water
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 egg, well beaten

Plain Crisco Pastry:

• Enough to line a large pie plate

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat your oven to a hot temperature.
2. Line a large pie plate with Plain Crisco Pastry, creating the foundation for the Double Pie.
3. For the under layer, mix the brown sugar with flour, then add molasses, the well-beaten egg, grated lemon zest, and hot water. Pour this mixture into the prepared pie plate.
4. For the top layer, begin by creaming Crisco and sugar together until well combined.
5. Add the eggs (well beaten) and sweet milk to the Crisco-sugar mixture, followed by the salt, flour, and baking powder. Mix until the ingredients form a smooth and harmonious batter.
6. Carefully spread the top layer mixture over the under layer in the pie plate, ensuring an even distribution.
7. Place the Double Pie in the preheated oven and bake for approximately thirty-five minutes, or until the top layer is golden brown and the filling is set.
8. Once baked to perfection, remove the Double Pie from the oven and allow it to cool before serving.

In conclusion, Double Pie is a tribute to the art of layering flavors, an homage to the past, and a reminder of the simple joys found in the heart of homemade baking. The layers of sweetness and tradition in Double Pie continue to capture hearts and palates, uniting generations in the shared experience of savoring a truly timeless dessert.