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There’s something undeniably enchanting about the lush, rich sweetness of Shoofly Pie. Picture this: you walk into a warm kitchen, and instantly, the comforting scent of molasses and spices wraps around you like a cozy blanket. This delightful Pennsylvania Dutch dessert, often a forgotten classic, has a magical way of transforming even the simplest gathering into a cherished memory.

I first encountered this pie during a family reunion, where my aunt’s version captivated everyone with its gooey filling and crumbly topping. I knew I had to recreate that moment in my own kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of love, this pie comes together easily, making it perfect for both seasoned bakers and kitchen novices alike.

Get ready to elevate your dessert game with this delightful Shoofly Pie recipe that promises to impress your family and friends without spending hours confined to your kitchen. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, this pie is sure to become your new favorite treat.

Why is Shoofly Pie so irresistible?

Dreamy flavors and textures: The delightful combination of sweet molasses, warm spices, and a crumbly topping creates a dessert experience like no other.

Simplicity is key: With minimal, pantry-staple ingredients, creating this pie is a breeze; perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.

Nostalgic comfort food: It brings back memories of family gatherings and is bound to become a beloved staple in your home.

Versatile for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weeknight treat, Shoofly Pie fits all settings and moods.

Satisfying crowd-pleaser: Impress your friends and family with this classic dessert that’s guaranteed to be a hit!

Shoofly Pie Ingredients

For the Filling
• Molasses – Adds that characteristic deep, rich flavor that defines Shoofly Pie.
• Brown sugar – Brings sweetness and a touch of caramel undertone to balance the molasses.
• Eggs – Help bind the filling together and provide structure for a satisfying texture.
• Hot water – Used to dissolve the brown sugar and molasses, ensuring a smooth consistency.
• Baking soda – Creates a light and airy filling, making each bite a little cloud of joy.

For the Crumb Topping
• All-purpose flour – The base for the crumb topping, providing the necessary structure.
• Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness that perfectly contrasts the richness of the filling.
• Unsalted butter – For that delightful buttery flavor and crumbly texture when combined.
• Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice, enhancing the overall flavor of your Shoofly Pie.

For the Pie Crust
• Pre-made pie crust – Saves time and effort, allowing you to focus on creating that delicious filling.
• Or homemade pie crust – For the adventurous baker, a homemade crust can add an extra touch of love!

Let’s get baking and create this timeless Shoofly Pie that will surely warm your heart and your kitchen!

How to Make Shoofly Pie

1. Prepare the crust. Begin by placing your pre-made pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan, ensuring it’s evenly fitted. If you’re making a homemade crust, roll it out to about 1/8-inch thick and transfer it to the pie pan. Preheat your oven to 350°F.

2. Mix the filling. In a bowl, whisk together molasses, brown sugar, and hot water until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated for a silky consistency. Add baking soda and mix well.

3. Pour the filling. Carefully pour the molasses mixture into the prepared pie crust, filling it to the top without spilling over.

4. Make the crumb topping. In a separate bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until it’s crumbly and resembles coarse sand.

5. Top the pie. Evenly sprinkle the crumb topping over the molasses filling, creating a beautiful, rustic look. This will add that perfect crunchy texture on top as it bakes.

6. 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. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out clean.

7. Cool and serve. Allow the pie to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This will help the filling to firm up nicely, making serving easier and more enjoyable.

Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

Shoofly Pie is a fantastic dessert to prep in advance, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings! You can prepare the pie crust and filling up to 24 hours ahead of time. Simply prepare the crust and place it in the pie dish, then whisk together the filling ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain the quality, keep the crumb topping separate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re set to serve, just pour the chilled filling into the crust, sprinkle the crumb topping on top, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a delectable pie with minimal last-minute effort—perfect for impressing your guests!

Shoofly Pie Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions to make this Shoofly Pie uniquely yours!

• Maple Syrup: Swap out molasses for an equal amount of maple syrup for a lighter, yet sweet flavor. The distinct taste adds a lovely twist that will enchant your guests.

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour for the crumb topping. It’s an easy swap that retains all the deliciousness while catering to gluten-sensitive friends.

• Nutty Addition: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for a delightful crunch. This variation elevates your pie, embracing both texture and nutty flavors.

• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to your crumb topping to enhance the warmth of the spices. This simple tweak will make your pie even more aromatic and inviting.

• Rich Chocolate: Incorporate chopped semi-sweet chocolate into the filling for a decadent twist. This delicious addition brings an unexpected but delightful richness that chocolate lovers will adore.

• Fruit Boost: Toss in some diced apples or pears for a fruity surprise. Their subtle sweetness complements the molasses and adds a refreshing layer to your classic pie.

• Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) and use coconut oil instead of butter for a vegan-friendly treat. Everyone can enjoy this classic dessert!

• Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce on top of the filling before adding the crumb topping for a luscious twist. It adds an extra layer of richness that turns an already divine pie into an unforgettable masterpiece!

How to Store and Freeze Shoofly Pie

Room Temperature: Allow the pie to cool completely, then cover it loosely with foil or a clean kitchen towel to keep it fresh for up to 2 days.

Fridge: For longer storage, wrap the Shoofly Pie tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container, keeping it in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezer: To enjoy later, slice the pie and wrap each piece in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag; it will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or reheat the entire pie in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to revive its delightful flavors.

What to Serve with Shoofly Pie?

Shoofly Pie isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience that deserves a lovingly curated meal around it.

• Fresh Whipped Cream: A light, airy topping that balances the pie’s richness and adds a touch of elegance. It’s the perfect finishing touch for each slice, inviting indulgence.

• Coffee or Tea: The warm, deep flavors of coffee or a spiced chai really enhance the molasses notes of the pie. Sipping a warm drink alongside this sweet treat can create a cozy, comforting atmosphere.

• Apple Crisp: This warm, fruity dessert mirrors the comforting nature of Shoofly Pie but brings in delightful crunchy textures. The tartness of apples contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the pie, making for an inviting dessert duo.

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Each creamy scoop melts into the gooey filling, creating an irresistible combination. The cold ice cream complements the warm pie while adding a delightful creaminess to every bite.

• Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of granola adds crunch and an extra layer of flavor. Pairing it with yogurt creates a delightful breakfast dish or a delightful midday snack.

• Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses, like brie or a creamy goat cheese, pairs beautifully. This unexpected combination brings savory notes to balance the sweetness of the Shoofly Pie.

• Spiced Pear Salad: A fresh, zingy salad with spiced pears can lighten up the overall meal. The tangy dressing brings out the warm spices of the pie, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

• Red Wine: A light-bodied red with fruity notes can complement the molasses flavors in the pie exceptionally well. Sipping wine along with dessert can elevate the experience, perfect for an intimate gathering.

Tips for the Best Shoofly Pie

• Perfect Consistency: Make sure your molasses mixture is well combined before pouring it into the crust for a smooth filling.

• Avoid Soggy Bottom: Pre-baking your pie crust for a few minutes before adding the filling can prevent it from getting soggy.

• Crumbly Topping: Don’t overmix the crumb topping; you want it to be light and crumbly to contrast the gooey filling perfectly.

• Right Baking Time: Keep an eye on the pie; it should be set yet still slightly wobbly in the center when done. Overbaking can lead to dryness.

• Cooling Time: Allow the Shoofly Pie to rest after baking for at least 15 minutes. This helps the filling stabilize for better slicing.

Shoofly Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of molasses should I use for Shoofly Pie?
For the best flavor, I recommend using unsulfured molasses, which is sweeter and has a more complex taste compared to the sulfurous variety. Look for dark molasses for a deeper, richer flavor that will elevate your Shoofly Pie.

How long can I store Shoofly Pie?
Absolutely! If kept at room temperature, your Shoofly Pie can stay fresh for up to 2 days, covered loosely with foil or a clean kitchen towel. If you’re planning to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it, where it can last up to 5 days.

Can I freeze Shoofly Pie?
Very much so! Freezing is a great way to preserve your Shoofly Pie. First, slice the pie and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. Your delicious pie can last up to 3 months this way.

What if my Shoofly Pie filling is runny after baking?
If you find that your filling is runny, it could be due to underbaking. Make sure to bake until the center is only slightly wobbly and the edges have set. Also, consider letting the pie cool completely before slicing, as it thickens upon cooling.

Are there any dietary considerations for Shoofly Pie?
If you have allergies, pay attention to the ingredients. Keep in mind that the pie contains eggs and gluten from the flour. For a gluten-free version, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your pie crust is gluten-free as well. Also, since it contains molasses, those with certain dietary restrictions should note its sugar content.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover Shoofly Pie?
I often recommend reheating individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Alternatively, if you desire to warm the entire pie, preheat your oven to 350°F and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This restores that cozy, mouthwatering aroma that makes Shoofly Pie so delightful!