The canadian flapper pie is a custard pie topped with meringue. This pie originated in the prairies of canada during the 1920s.
Flapper pie is a classic canadian dessert that has been around for almost a century. This pie is known for its smooth, creamy, and custardy filling topped with billowy meringue. It first became popular during the 1920s, a time when flappers and jazz were all the rage. The origins of the pie are somewhat mysterious, with some attributing it to french-canadian and ukrainian immigrants in the prairies of canada. One thing is for sure, however, it has become a beloved dessert throughout canada and is often served at special occasions and holidays. Whether you’re a canadian looking to indulge in a slice of nostalgia or a visitor interested in trying a classic canadian dessert, the flapper pie is definitely worth a try.
Credit: calgaryherald.com
History Of Flapper Pie In Canada
The canadian flapper pie is a unique dessert that represents the rich history and culture of canada. This pie is a classic canadian dish that has been loved for generations. In this blog post, we will explore the interesting history of flapper pie in canada under three headings: origins of flapper pie in canada, historical significance of flapper pie in canadian cuisine, and changes in flapper pie recipe over time.
Origins Of Flapper Pie In Canada
- Flapper pie is believed to have originated in the prairies of western canada.
- The recipe was popularized in the 20th century, especially during the depression era, as it was affordable and easy to make.
- The pie’s name comes from the use of custard filling, which was at times referred to as “custard flappers”.
- While its origins are debatable, it is widely accepted that the pie is an adaptation of the lemon meringue pie, with a filling made of custard, cornstarch and sometimes coconut.
Historical Significance Of Flapper Pie In Canadian Cuisine
- Flapper pie has become a significant part of canadian culinary heritage and is considered a symbol of prairie cuisine.
- During world war ii, flapper pie was a popular dessert among canadian servicemen and became a source of comfort food for many canadian families.
- It has even been designated as the official pie of the province of saskatchewan.
- The pie has gained international recognition over time and has been featured in cookbooks and food blogs globally.
Changes In Flapper Pie Recipe Over Time
- The recipe for flapper pie has evolved over the years, with variations being introduced to the traditional recipe by different cultures.
- Some recipes use different types of crusts, such as graham cracker or chocolate, and some others include grated chocolate or fruits as toppings.
- The recipe’s filling, too, has also been modified, with some adding nuts, peanut butter, bananas or even chocolate chips.
- Despite the changes, the pie maintains its roots and continues to be a favorite among canadians.
Flapper pie is a pie with a fascinating history that has contributed significantly to canadian culinary culture. Its evolution over time is the result of the diverse cultural influences and the adaptability of canadians to create delicious variations of traditional recipes.
The Canadian Flapper Pie Recipe
The canadian flapper pie is a traditional dessert that has been enjoyed in many canadian households for generations. This pie has a creamy custard filling with a meringue topping, all baked in a flaky pie crust. The canadian flapper pie recipe is fairly easy to make, and with a few tips, you can create a perfect pie that will have your taste buds dancing.
Traditional Ingredients Needed For Canadian Flapper Pie
The canadian flapper pie consists of a few basic ingredients that can be found in most canadian kitchens. However, the recipe for flapper pie can vary slightly by region. Some regional variations include using brown sugar or maple syrup instead of white sugar in the filling.
- 1 9-inch pie crust
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large egg whites
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions On How To Prepare Canadian Flapper Pie
Now that you have all of your ingredients assembled, it is time to start baking. Follow these simple instructions and you’ll have a delicious canadian flapper pie in no time.
- Preheat your oven to 375°f (190°c).
- Roll out your pie crust dough and place it in your 9-inch pie dish. Crimp the edges of the dough with your fingers or a fork.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt over medium heat, until the mixture has thickened. This should take about 5 minutes.
- Beat the egg yolks in a separate bowl and then slowly pour one-third of the milk mixture into the bowl, whisking constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs.
- Add the egg yolk mixture into the remaining milk mixture in the saucepan and whisk until the mixture is combined.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly until it comes to a boil. This should take about 2 minutes.
- Once the mixture has boiled, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the filling into the pie crust and set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar on high speed until they form stiff peaks.
- Slowly add the granulated sugar and beat until the mixture becomes glossy.
- Spread the meringue mixture over the pie filling, making sure to cover the edges of the crust to prevent it from burning.
- Bake the pie for 12-15 minutes or until the meringue is golden brown.
- Let the pie cool completely before serving.
Tips On Creating The Perfect Flapper Pie Crust
The pie crust is one of the most important elements of the canadian flapper pie. Follow these tips to create a perfect pie crust that will impress your guests.
- Use cold butter to make your pie crust. This helps to create a flaky crust.
- Mix your dough until it forms small clumps. Overmixing can lead to a tough crust.
- Chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.
- Flour your work surface and rolling pin to prevent the dough from sticking.
- Transfer the dough to your pie dish carefully to avoid tearing it.
- Prick the bottom of the pie crust with a fork before baking to prevent it from puffing up.
- Brush the crust with egg wash before baking to create a beautiful golden color.
Popular Variations Of Canadian Flapper Pie
For those who adore canadian flapper pie, adding in personal touches or new flavors is a fun twist on the classic dessert.
Different Flavors Of Canadian Flapper Pie
- Lemon flapper pie: a zesty take on the traditional recipe with the addition of fresh lemon juice and zest.
- Chocolate flapper pie: add some cocoa powder or melted chocolate to the pudding mixture for a chocoholic’s dream pie.
- Butterscotch flapper pie: instead of vanilla pudding, substitute for butterscotch and drizzle the top with caramel sauce.
- Regional variations: british columbia, saskatchewan, and manitoba all have their own takes on flapper pie. Bc adds in coconut and raspberry jam, while saskatchewan throws in a meringue topping and manitoba serves it cold.
Variations For Different Dietary Restrictions
- Gluten-free: swap out the traditional graham cracker crust for a gluten-free alternative such as almond flour or gluten-free graham crackers.
- Vegan: use coconut or almond milk instead of dairy milk for the pudding mixture and opt for a vegan pie crust.
- Sugar-free: if you’re avoiding sugar, try using a sugar-free pudding mix and swap out the sugar in the graham cracker crust for a sugar substitute, like stevia.
Unique Twists On The Traditional Canadian Flapper Pie Recipe
- Peanut butter flapper pie: mix in some peanut butter to the pudding mixture and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
- Gingerbread flapper pie: swap out the graham cracker crust for gingerbread crumbs and sprinkle cinnamon on top.
- S’mores flapper pie: toast some mini marshmallows in the oven and sprinkle over the top of the pudding mixture for a delicious s’mores-inspired variation.
Canadian flapper pie is a beloved classic dessert that can easily be tweaked to fit any personal taste preference or dietary restriction. Whether you opt for a zesty twist or a finger-licking peanut butter version, this canadian treat is sure to impress.
The Cultural Significance Of Canadian Flapper Pie
The canadian flapper pie is a traditional dessert that has long been popular among canadians. It is a sweet and creamy pie with a graham cracker crust, custard filling and meringue topping. While it may seem like just a dessert, the canadian flapper pie has deeper cultural significance.
Here are a few reasons why this pie is so essential to canadian culture and heritage.
Flapper Pie In Canadian Holidays And Celebrations
- The canadian flapper pie is often served during thanksgiving and christmas celebrations in canada.
- It is a popular dessert at community potlucks and family gatherings, where it is enjoyed by people of all ages.
- The pie’s presence in these national holidays demonstrates how a simple dessert can contribute to a sense of unity and togetherness.
Flapper Pie In Canadian Literature And Media
- The canadian flapper pie has been referenced in various works of canadian literature, including books, poems, and songs.
- In margaret atwood’s novel “alias grace,” the roundness and sweetness of the pie symbolize feminine domesticity.
- The canadian flapper pie has also been featured in movies and tv shows, such as the canadian comedy “corner gas.
Flapper Pie As A Symbol Of Canadian Identity
- The canadian flapper pie is a symbol of the country’s agricultural heritage, as many of its ingredients—such as eggs, milk, and flour—are locally sourced.
- It is also considered a classic canadian dessert, notable for its simplicity and down-to-earth quality.
- Many canadians have fond memories of eating flapper pie, whether it was made by their grandmother or enjoyed at a community event. As such, it has become a symbol of canadian identity and community.
The canadian flapper pie has been enjoyed by canadians for generations, and it has become a significant part of the country’s cultural heritage. Whether eaten at a family dinner or referenced in literature, this dessert embodies the warmth and hospitality that are integral to canadian life.
Frequently Asked Questions On The Canadian Flapper Pie
Conclusion
The canadian flapper pie is undoubtedly a treasured culinary gem that has been passed down through generations. This sweet and creamy pie has evolved over the years, but still manages to maintain its heritage and rustic charm. The way that it is made is a reflection of canada’s cooking and baking traditions, which have always placed an emphasis on simple yet flavorful dishes.
By taking a bite of this classic dessert, you not only get to enjoy a scrumptious treat, but you also experience a little slice of canadian history and culture. With its delicious custard filling and flaky pastry crust, it’s no surprise that the canadian flapper pie has become a shared source of national pride.
So why not give it a try? Whip up a flapper pie, and take a sweet journey through canada’s past.
