"pebble Dash" Or Shoo-fly Pie Recipe

History of Pebble Dash Pie:

Pebble Dash Pie, also known as Shoo-fly Pie, is a sweet and delicious dessert that has its roots in the Pennsylvania Dutch community. The origins of this pie can be traced back to the 19th century when it was commonly made in Amish and Mennonite households.

Originally, this pie was called "Pebble Dash" by Aunt Sarah, who perfected the recipe. The name is believed to have been inspired by the pebble-like appearance of the crumbs on top of the pie. Over time, the pie became popularly known as Shoo-fly Pie due to its ability to attract flies, which needed to be shooed away.

Fun Facts about Pebble Dash Pie:

1. Traditional pebble dash pies were made without a top crust, distinguishing them from other fruit pies. Instead, a crumb mixture was used to create a delicious, sweet and crumbly topping.

2. The key ingredient in this pie is baking molasses, which gives it a distinct flavor. Baking molasses is made from the juice of sugar cane or sugar beets and is darker and less sweet than regular molasses.

3. Pebble Dash Pie is often associated with Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine, but it has gained popularity across the United States, particularly in the Midwest and the South.

4. In some variations of the recipe, buttermilk is used instead of hot water, giving the pie a slightly tangy taste that balances the sweetness.

5. With its rich history and unique flavors, Pebble Dash Pie has become a beloved dessert for many occasions, including holidays and potluck gatherings.

Recipe for Pebble Dash Pie (Shoo-fly Pie):

Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 3/4 cup butter and lard (combined)
- 1 cup baking molasses
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Few drops of vinegar
- Pie crust (enough for three small-sized pie tins)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Line three small-sized pie tins with pie crust, ensuring the crust covers the bottom and sides of each tin.

3. In a bowl, combine the flour and brown sugar. Add the butter and lard and mix with your hands until the mixture resembles small pebbles or rivels.

4. In a separate bowl, mix the baking molasses, hot water, baking soda (dissolved in vinegar), and stir until well combined.

5. Divide the liquid among the three pie crusts, pouring one-third of the mixture into each crust.

6. Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the liquid in each pie crust, covering the entire surface.

7. Place the pie tins in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown and set.

8. Remove from the oven and let the pies cool before serving. They will have the appearance of molasses cakes when baked.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

1. Shoofly Cake: Similar to Pebble Dash Pie, Shoofly Cake is a variation that is baked in a cake form instead of a pie crust. The crumbly topping and rich molasses flavor are still present, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

2. Molasses Cookies: These cookies are made using similar ingredients as Pebble Dash Pie, including baking molasses. They are soft, chewy, and have a delightful hint of spiciness from the addition of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.

3. Pecan Pie: Although the flavors differ, Pecan Pie shares some resemblances with Pebble Dash Pie in terms of its crust and indulgent filling. Pecan Pie is made with a pie crust and a gooey, sweet filling made from a combination of eggs, sugar, corn syrup, butter, and pecans.

4. Buttermilk Pie: In some variations of Pebble Dash Pie, hot water is replaced with buttermilk. This creates a tangy and creamy custard-like filling that is baked in a pie crust. Buttermilk Pie shares similarities in terms of its custard-like texture and beloved place in Southern cuisine.

Whether you prefer Pebble Dash Pie, Shoofly Cake, or any other similar dishes, the rich flavors of molasses and sweet crumbly toppings are sure to satisfy your cravings for a classic Pennsylvania Dutch dessert.