Amish Shoo-Fly Pie

🥧 Amish Shoo-Fly Pie 🥧

Amish Shoo-Fly Pie is a classic Pennsylvania Dutch dessert known for its rich, molasses-based filling and crumbly, sweet topping. It’s a delightful treat that has a unique history and a distinct flavor profile. Here’s everything you need to know about it:

📜 History:
Amish Shoo-Fly Pie has deep roots in the Pennsylvania Dutch community, particularly among the Amish and Mennonite populations. Its origins can be traced back to the 19th century when these communities settled in Pennsylvania. The name “Shoo-Fly Pie” is said to have come from the fact that the sweet aroma of the pie attracted flies, and the baker would have to shoo them away.

🧁 Components:
The pie consists of two main components: the pie crust and the filling.

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup shortening (or butter for a richer flavor)
• 3-4 tablespoons cold water

For the Filling:

• 1 cup molasses (traditionally dark molasses)
• 3/4 cup boiling water
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Crumb Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup butter, cold and cubed

👩‍🍳 Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare the Pie Crust:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
   • Cut in the shortening (or butter) until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough forms a ball.
   • Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes.

2. Prep the Filling:

   • In a separate bowl, combine molasses and boiling water.
   • Stir in the baking soda and let it cool to room temperature.
   • Once cooled, mix in the beaten egg and 1 1/2 cups of flour until well combined.

3. Assemble the Pie:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Roll out the chilled pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish.

4. Add the Filling:

   • Pour the molasses filling into the unbaked pie crust.

5. Prepare the Crumb Topping:

   • In a bowl, combine 1 cup of flour and brown sugar.
   • Cut in the cold butter until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.

6. Top the Pie:

   • Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the molasses filling.

7. Baking:

   • Bake the pie in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until the filling is set, and the topping is golden brown.

8. Cool and Serve:

   • Allow the Shoo-Fly Pie to cool completely before slicing and serving.

⏲️ Time Needed:
Preparing and baking an Amish Shoo-Fly Pie will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, including preparation and cooling time.

Enjoy this sweet, molasses-infused treat that has been a cherished part of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine for generations! 🥧👨‍🍳

Amish Shoo-Fly Pie, like many traditional desserts, is delicious but not known for its health benefits. Here are some general nutrition facts and health information:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):

• Calories: Around 350-400 calories per slice (may vary based on serving size and recipe variations).
• Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams (mainly from butter or shortening).
• Sugar: High sugar content due to molasses and brown sugar.
• Protein: Limited protein content.
• Fiber: Minimal dietary fiber.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Negligible amounts.

Health Information:

• High in Sugar: Shoo-Fly Pie is high in sugar due to the use of molasses and brown sugar. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to weight gain and other health issues, including diabetes and heart disease.

• Moderate Fat Content: The pie crust and crumb topping contribute to the fat content. While some fat is necessary for flavor and texture, excessive consumption of saturated fats (common in butter and shortening) can be detrimental to heart health.

• Low in Nutrients: This dessert lacks essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals. It should be enjoyed in moderation and not as a staple in your diet.

• Caloric Density: Shoo-Fly Pie is calorie-dense, meaning it provides a significant number of calories in a small serving. It’s important to be mindful of portion sizes.

• Not Suitable for Dietary Restrictions: It’s not suitable for individuals with dietary restrictions such as low-sugar, low-fat, or low-carb diets.

Moderation is Key:
While Amish Shoo-Fly Pie is a delightful indulgence, it’s best enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat due to its high sugar and calorie content. To make it slightly healthier, you can consider reducing the sugar or using whole-grain flour for the crust, although it may alter the traditional flavor.

Always remember that maintaining a balanced diet and incorporating a variety of foods is essential for overall health.