Shoofly Pie Recipe 

Shoofly Pie originates from the Pennsylvania Dutch tradition, cherished for its rich molasses-based filling. Its name likely comes from the sweet aroma that attracted flies, leading bakers to “shoo” them away. Over time, it became a staple dessert, showcasing a blend of simple ingredients like molasses, flour, sugar, and spices—a testament to practicality and resourcefulness in using pantry staples.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
• 2-4 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• ¾ cup hot water
• ½ cup dark molasses
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

For the Crust:

1. In a bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry blender or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing lightly until the dough just begins to come together. Be careful not to overwork the dough. Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

For the Filling:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, dark brown sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix together the hot water and molasses until well combined.
4. Gradually add the molasses mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until smooth.
5. Add the beaten egg and vanilla extract to the molasses mixture, and mix until fully incorporated.

Assembly:

1. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Place the dough into the pie dish and crimp the edges as desired.
2. Pour the prepared molasses filling into the unbaked pie crust.
3. For the crumble topping, take the chilled dough and crumble it over the top of the molasses filling, covering it evenly.
4. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips, and bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
5. Once baked, allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Conclusion: The Shoofly Pie recipe preserves the essence of this classic dessert with its gooey molasses filling and crumbly top crust. Over time, variations like the crumble top have added texture and appeal, elevating this traditional treat. It stands as a testament to American culinary heritage, celebrated for its unique flavor and historical significance while continuing to delight taste buds across generations.

Enjoy this nostalgic Shoofly Pie warm or at room temperature, perhaps paired with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, savoring its comforting flavors and historical roots.

Indulge in a slice of homemade Shoofly Pie