Shoofly pie has always been my ultimate comfort food, a taste of home that instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. The aroma of warm molasses and cinnamon filling the air is simply irresistible. This classic Pennsylvania Dutch shoofly pie is a true delight for the senses, with its gooey, dark molasses center and a tender, cake-like crumb topping. I’ve spent years perfecting this easy shoofly pie recipe, and I can’t wait to share it with you. Get ready to create a dessert that’s both nostalgic and incredibly delicious. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Shoofly Pie
You’re going to adore this classic dessert for so many reasons. It’s genuinely a crowd-pleaser!
- The taste is heavenly – a rich, sweet molasses filling with a delightful crumb topping.
- It’s surprisingly quick to make, with a prep time of just 15 minutes.
- While it’s a treat, the use of molasses offers some unique benefits over refined sugars.
- This easy shoofly pie keeps costs down with simple, pantry-staple ingredients.
- It’s a budget-friendly way to create a show-stopping dessert.
- Kids and adults alike adore this comforting treat, making it perfect for family gatherings.
- You can whip up this easy shoofly pie on a weeknight without much fuss.
- It’s a taste of tradition that brings warmth and nostalgia to any table.
Ingredients for Shoofly Pie
Gathering these shoofly pie ingredients is the first step to creating this Pennsylvania Dutch classic. The magic really happens with the combination of molasses and the simple crumb topping.
- 1 pre-made 9-inch pie crust – or your favorite homemade version, ready to go
- 1 cup molasses – the heart of the pie, providing that signature deep, rich flavor
- 1 cup brown sugar – packed, for sweetness and moisture in the filling
- 2 large eggs – lightly beaten, to bind the filling together
- 1/2 cup hot water – crucial for dissolving the sugar and creating a smooth filling
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – helps activate the molasses for a lighter texture
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – for the delicious crumb topping
- 1 cup granulated sugar – also for the crumb topping, creating that sweet crunch
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – essential for binding the crumb topping ingredients
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – for that warm, comforting spice in the topping
How to Make Shoofly Pie
Creating an authentic shoofly pie is simpler than you might think, and the process is so rewarding! Just follow these steps and soon you’ll be enjoying a slice of pure comfort.
- Step 1: Get your oven ready by preheating it to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, prepare your pie crust. Place your pre-made 9-inch pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan, pressing it gently into the bottom and up the sides. If you’re using a homemade crust, roll it out to fit the pan perfectly.
- Step 2: Now for the star of the show – the filling! In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1 cup molasses, 1 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 cup hot water until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. It should smell wonderfully sweet already!
- Step 3: Beat in the 2 large eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This will help create a cohesive filling. Then, stir in the 1 teaspoon baking soda. You might notice a slight foaming or bubbling – that’s the baking soda reacting with the molasses, which is exactly what we want for the texture of this traditional shoofly pie.
- Step 4: Carefully pour this luscious molasses mixture into your prepared pie crust. Try not to overfill it, leaving a little room for the topping.
- Step 5: Let’s make that irresistible crumb topping! In a separate bowl, combine the 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Add the 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened. Use your fingertips or a pastry blender to work the butter into the dry ingredients until you have coarse, crumbly pieces. This is the key to that delightful texture.
- Step 6: Evenly sprinkle the crumb topping all over the molasses filling. Don’t press it down; let it sit loosely on top.
- Step 7: Carefully place the pie into the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the filling is set around the edges and the crumb topping is a beautiful golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will be heavenly!
- Step 8: Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to fully set. Enjoy your delicious homemade shoofly pie!
Pro Tips for the Best Shoofly Pie
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make sure my shoofly pie is always a success. These tips will help you achieve that perfect balance of gooey filling and tender crumb topping.
- Use good quality molasses! It really makes a difference in the depth of flavor for your molasses shoofly pie.
- Don’t overmix the crumb topping. You want distinct crumbles, not a paste.
- Ensure your baking soda is fresh; it’s crucial for the pie’s texture.
- Let the pie cool sufficiently before slicing – this is key for the filling to set properly.
What’s the secret to perfect Shoofly Pie?
The real secret to an authentic shoofly pie lies in the balance of the wet filling and the crumb topping. Getting the moisture content just right in both components ensures that classic tender, slightly cakey texture. For more baking insights, you can explore resources on ingredient properties in baking.
Can I make Shoofly Pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components of your shoofly pie ahead of time. The crust and the crumb topping can be made a day in advance and stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble just before baking.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Shoofly Pie?
A common pitfall is an overly wet filling; ensure you don’t add extra liquid. Also, be careful not to overbake, as this can make the filling dry instead of gooey. Always check for that golden brown topping.
Best Ways to Serve Shoofly Pie
Serving up a slice of this classic dessert is always a treat. The rich, sweet flavor of a Pennsylvania Dutch shoofly pie pairs wonderfully with a few simple additions.
- For an extra touch of comfort, serve warm slices with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool creaminess is the perfect contrast to the warm, gooey filling.
- A simple side of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Consider pairing your slice with a light, fresh fruit salad, perhaps with apples or pears, to balance the richness of the pie.
Nutrition Facts for Shoofly Pie
Per serving (this recipe makes 8 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 375
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 300mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Shoofly Pie
Proper storage ensures your delicious homemade shoofly pie stays fresh and tasty. Once your pie has cooled completely on a wire rack, usually for about 2-3 hours, it’s ready to be stored. For immediate enjoyment within the next 3 to 4 days, cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap or foil and keep it at room temperature. If you want to keep this delightful treat for longer, you can refrigerate it. Tightly cover the pie with plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and it should stay good in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing is also a fantastic option for long-term storage of your shoofly pie. After it has cooled completely, wrap individual slices securely in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place them in freezer-safe containers. Properly stored, your pie can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, you can reheat it gently. For refrigerated pie, warm slices in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Frozen slices can be reheated directly in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the topping is crisp again.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shoofly Pie
What is shoofly pie?
Shoofly pie is a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dessert known for its rich, gooey molasses filling and a moist, cake-like crumb topping. It’s a comforting and sweet treat that has been enjoyed for generations. The name “shoofly” is thought to come from the practice of covering the pie to deter flies, or perhaps from a brand of molasses named “Shoo-Fly.”
What makes shoofly pie so moist?
The key to a perfectly moist shoofly pie is the filling. The combination of molasses, hot water, and baking soda creates a unique texture that remains wonderfully soft and gooey even after baking. It’s this signature gooeyness that many people love about this pie.
Can I use dark or light molasses for my shoofly pie?
You can use either! Dark molasses will give you a more intense, robust flavor and a deeper color, often referred to as a “dark shoofly pie.” Light molasses, sometimes called sulfured molasses, will result in a slightly milder flavor and a lighter hue, creating a “light shoofly pie.” Both are delicious and yield fantastic results. For more on molasses types, check out this guide to molasses types.
What is the best way to store leftover shoofly pie?
To keep your homemade shoofly pie fresh, let it cool completely. You can store it at room temperature, loosely covered, for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep it tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you have a lot of leftovers, freezing is a great option!
Variations of Shoofly Pie You Can Try
While the classic shoofly pie is incredible on its own, there are so many fun ways to customize it! Whether you have dietary needs or just want to experiment with flavors, these variations are fantastic.
- Gluten-Free Shoofly Pie: Easily adapt this recipe by using a gluten-free flour blend for the crumb topping and a gluten-free pie crust. The rich molasses filling remains the star.
- Vegan Shoofly Pie: For a dairy-free and egg-free option, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flax meal + 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes) and use coconut oil or vegan butter in the crumb topping and for greasing the pan.
- Spiced Molasses Shoofly Pie: Enhance the flavor of your molasses shoofly pie by adding a pinch of ground ginger and nutmeg to the crumb topping along with the cinnamon. This adds an extra layer of warmth and complexity.
- Amish Shoofly Pie with Nuts: Stir in about half a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumb topping mixture before sprinkling it over the filling. This adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweet molasses perfectly.
Shoofly Pie: Delightful 15-Min Prep Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Discover the rich, comforting sweetness of Shoofly Pie, a classic Pennsylvania Dutch dessert. This easy-to-make pie features a gooey molasses filling topped with a delicious crumb topping, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup molasses
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup hot water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- For the Crumb Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- For the Pie Crust:
- 1 pre-made 9-inch pie crust or homemade pie crust
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Place your pre-made pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan. If using homemade, roll it out and fit it into the pan. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the filling: In a bowl, whisk together molasses, brown sugar, and hot water until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Stir in the baking soda.
- Pour the filling: Carefully pour the molasses mixture into the prepared pie crust.
- Make the crumb topping: In a separate bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter. Use your fingers or a pastry blender to mix until crumbly.
- Top the pie: Evenly sprinkle the crumb topping over the molasses filling.
- Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the topping is golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Let the pie cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Serve with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend and crust.
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for extra texture.
- Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the crumb topping for more spice.
- For a decadent twist, add chopped semi-sweet chocolate to the filling.
- Toss in diced apples or pears for a fruity surprise.
- For a vegan option, substitute eggs with flax eggs and butter with coconut oil.
- Drizzle caramel sauce on top before the crumb topping for a caramel swirl.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Pennsylvania Dutch
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Sugar: High
- Sodium: Moderate
- Fat: Moderate
- Saturated Fat: Moderate
- Unsaturated Fat: Low
- Trans Fat: Low
- Carbohydrates: High
- Fiber: Low
- Protein: Low
- Cholesterol: Moderate