Shoo-Fly Pie, a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dessert, has been a staple in many American households for centuries. This molasses-based treat is a classic example of the region’s rich baking heritage. If you’re craving a slice (or two) of this sweet delight, you’re probably wondering where to find the best Shoo-Fly Pie. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the top destinations for this beloved dessert.
A Brief History of Shoo-Fly Pie
Before we dive into the best places to find Shoo-Fly Pie, let’s take a brief look at its history. The origins of this dessert date back to the 18th century, when Pennsylvania Dutch settlers brought their baking traditions to America. The name “Shoo-Fly” is believed to have originated from the fact that the molasses in the pie would attract flies, which had to be “shooed” away.
Shoo-Fly Pie was originally made with molasses, sugar, and spices, which were readily available ingredients in the region. The pie was often served as a dessert or snack, and its popularity spread throughout the United States. Today, Shoo-Fly Pie remains a beloved treat in many parts of the country, particularly in the Northeast.
The Best Places to Find Shoo-Fly Pie
Now that we’ve explored the history of Shoo-Fly Pie, let’s get to the good stuff – where to find the best slices. Here are some top destinations for this delicious dessert:
Pennsylvania Dutch Country
The heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country is Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. This region is famous for its rich baking heritage, and Shoo-Fly Pie is no exception. You’ll find numerous bakeries, restaurants, and markets serving up traditional Shoo-Fly Pie. Some popular spots include:
- The Bird-in-Hand Bakery: This family-owned bakery has been serving up traditional Shoo-Fly Pie for over 40 years.
- The Lancaster Central Market: This historic market features a variety of vendors selling traditional Pennsylvania Dutch treats, including Shoo-Fly Pie.
- The Miller’s Smorgasbord: This popular restaurant serves up a classic Shoo-Fly Pie, along with other Pennsylvania Dutch favorites.
Amish Country
The Amish community is known for its traditional baking, and Shoo-Fly Pie is a staple in many Amish households. You can find authentic Shoo-Fly Pie in various Amish communities throughout the United States, including:
- Holmes County, Ohio: This region is home to a large Amish population, and you’ll find numerous bakeries and restaurants serving up traditional Shoo-Fly Pie.
- Elkhart County, Indiana: The Amish community in Elkhart County is famous for its baking, and Shoo-Fly Pie is a popular treat.
New York City
You don’t have to travel to the countryside to find great Shoo-Fly Pie. New York City has a number of bakeries and restaurants serving up this classic dessert. Some popular spots include:
- The Little Pie Shop: This charming bakery in Manhattan’s Upper West Side serves up a variety of traditional pies, including Shoo-Fly.
- The Brooklyn Pie Company: This popular bakery in Brooklyn offers a classic Shoo-Fly Pie, along with other creative flavors.
What Makes a Great Shoo-Fly Pie?
So, what sets a great Shoo-Fly Pie apart from the rest? Here are some key factors to look for:
Ingredients
A traditional Shoo-Fly Pie is made with molasses, sugar, and spices. Look for pies that use high-quality ingredients, such as pure molasses and real spices.
Crust
A flaky, buttery crust is essential to a great Shoo-Fly Pie. Look for pies with a crust that’s made from scratch, using real butter and a touch of sugar.
Filling
The filling should be rich and gooey, with a deep molasses flavor. Look for pies that have a generous amount of filling, and a good balance of sweet and spicy flavors.
How to Make Your Own Shoo-Fly Pie
If you can’t find a great Shoo-Fly Pie in your area, don’t worry – you can make your own! Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup molasses
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the molasses, sugar, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
- Add the melted butter and beaten egg to the bowl, and stir until the mixture is smooth.
- Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish.
- Pour the filling into the pie crust, and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake the pie for 40-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
Conclusion
Shoo-Fly Pie is a beloved dessert that’s rich in history and flavor. Whether you’re visiting Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Amish Country, or New York City, you’ll find plenty of great places to try this classic treat. And if you can’t find a great Shoo-Fly Pie in your area, don’t worry – you can make your own using our simple recipe. So go ahead, indulge in a slice (or two) of this sweet delight, and experience the rich baking heritage of the Pennsylvania Dutch.
What is Shoo-Fly Pie?
Shoo-Fly Pie is a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dessert that consists of a molasses-based filling in a crumbly crust. The filling is typically made with molasses, sugar, and spices, and is often served with a crumb topping or whipped cream. The pie is known for its rich, sweet flavor and is often associated with Amish cuisine.
The origins of Shoo-Fly Pie are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the late 19th or early 20th century in the Pennsylvania Dutch region. The name “Shoo-Fly” is thought to refer to the fact that the molasses in the filling would attract flies, which would need to be “shooed” away. Despite its humble origins, Shoo-Fly Pie has become a beloved dessert throughout the United States.
Where can I find the best Shoo-Fly Pie?
The best Shoo-Fly Pie can be found in the Pennsylvania Dutch region, particularly in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. This region is known for its rich Amish heritage and is home to many bakeries and restaurants that specialize in traditional Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. Some popular destinations for Shoo-Fly Pie include the Lancaster Central Market, the Amish Farm and House, and the Bird-in-Hand Bakery.
In addition to visiting the Pennsylvania Dutch region, you can also find Shoo-Fly Pie at many Amish markets and bakeries throughout the United States. Many of these markets and bakeries offer traditional Pennsylvania Dutch desserts, including Shoo-Fly Pie, and often ship their products nationwide. You can also try making your own Shoo-Fly Pie at home using a traditional recipe.
What is the difference between wet-bottom and dry-bottom Shoo-Fly Pie?
Wet-bottom and dry-bottom are two different types of Shoo-Fly Pie that refer to the texture of the crust. Wet-bottom Shoo-Fly Pie has a crust that is made with a mixture of flour, sugar, and butter, and is often more crumbly and tender. Dry-bottom Shoo-Fly Pie, on the other hand, has a crust that is made with a mixture of flour, sugar, and lard, and is often more flaky and crispy.
The main difference between the two types of pie is the type of fat used in the crust. Wet-bottom pie uses butter, which gives the crust a richer, more tender flavor. Dry-bottom pie uses lard, which gives the crust a flakier, more crumbly texture. Both types of pie are delicious and are worth trying.
Can I make Shoo-Fly Pie at home?
Yes, you can make Shoo-Fly Pie at home using a traditional recipe. The ingredients are simple and include molasses, sugar, flour, and spices. The crust can be made with a mixture of flour, sugar, and butter or lard, and the filling can be made with a mixture of molasses, sugar, and spices.
To make Shoo-Fly Pie at home, start by making the crust and pressing it into a pie dish. Then, mix together the filling ingredients and pour them into the crust. Bake the pie in a preheated oven until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set. You can also add a crumb topping or whipped cream to the pie for extra flavor and texture.
Is Shoo-Fly Pie a traditional Amish dessert?
Yes, Shoo-Fly Pie is a traditional Amish dessert that originated in the Pennsylvania Dutch region. The Amish are a traditionalist Christian group known for their simple living and traditional cuisine. Shoo-Fly Pie is one of many traditional Amish desserts that are still made and enjoyed today.
The Amish are known for their love of baking and desserts, and Shoo-Fly Pie is one of their most beloved treats. The pie is often served at Amish gatherings and celebrations, and is a staple of Amish cuisine. Many Amish bakeries and markets still make traditional Shoo-Fly Pie using recipes that have been passed down through generations.
Can I find Shoo-Fly Pie in stores?
Yes, you can find Shoo-Fly Pie in some stores, particularly those that specialize in Amish or Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. Many Amish markets and bakeries sell Shoo-Fly Pie, and some stores may also carry it in their bakery or dessert section.
However, it’s worth noting that store-bought Shoo-Fly Pie may not be as fresh or authentic as pie made at home or purchased from an Amish bakery. If you’re looking for a traditional Shoo-Fly Pie experience, it’s worth seeking out an Amish bakery or market that specializes in traditional Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine.
How do I store Shoo-Fly Pie?
Shoo-Fly Pie can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s best to store the pie in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out.
If you want to freeze Shoo-Fly Pie, you can do so by wrapping the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen Shoo-Fly Pie can be stored for up to 2 months and can be thawed at room temperature or in the refrigerator when you’re ready to serve it.