Canadian Flapper Pie

Canadian flapper pie, or just flapper pie” as it’s more commonly known, is a true Canadian gem. With a thick and creamy custard filling that’s topped off with a light-as-air meringue, this delicious dessert is fit for any occasion. If working with egg whites and making a stiff-peaked meringue seems daunting, don’t fret – we’ll walk you through every step of the process. You’ll be left with an impressively delicious (and gorgeous) pie that will win everyone over after their first bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This flapper pie is a delightful combination of creamy custard and airy meringue, all nestled in a sweet graham cracker crust. It’s a perfect dessert for impressing guests or simply enjoying a sweet treat at home. The recipe is straightforward, and the result is a classic pie that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 8 or 9-inch pie plate
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Electric mixer
• Spatula

Ingredients

Crust:

• 1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Filling:

• 2 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 3 egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Topping:

• 3 egg whites
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350º F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles damp sand.
3. Reserve 2-3 tablespoons of the crust mixture, then press the remaining mixture into an 8 or 9-inch pie plate, ensuring it goes up the sides.
4. Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until lightly browned, then remove from the oven and let cool.
5. In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar and cornstarch over medium heat, then stir in the whole milk and egg yolks. Slowly bring to a boil, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
6. Remove the custard from heat, stir in vanilla extract and salt, and let it cool.
7. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar for 3-4 minutes until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.
8. Pour the custard filling onto the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Top with meringue, spreading it to the edges of the crust. Optionally, sprinkle with reserved crust crumbs.
9. Bake for 10 minutes or until the meringue is lightly browned. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
10. Remove from the oven and let the pie cool before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

• Ensure no egg yolks mix with the whites to achieve the perfect meringue.
• Cook the custard slowly to prevent scrambling the eggs.
• Watch the meringue carefully while baking to avoid burning.

Additional Tips or Variations

You can add a pinch of nutmeg to the custard for a warm, spicy note. For a twist, try sprinkling chocolate shavings over the meringue before serving for an extra indulgence.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 300, Fat: 15g, Carbohydrates: 38g, Protein: 5g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different crust? Yes, while graham cracker crust is traditional, you can use a pastry crust if preferred.

How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this pie in advance? Yes, you can make the pie a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and add the meringue just before serving for best results.

Conclusion

Flapper pie is a delightful treat that captures the essence of a classic Canadian dessert. With its creamy custard and light meringue, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below. We’d love to hear about your experience and any variations you try!