Perfectly Golden and Flaky: Montgomery Pies Recipe

Welcome to my kitchen, where I’ll be sharing with you a recipe that’s been passed down through generations in my family – the Montgomery Pie recipe. This Pennsylvania Dutch classic is a humble pie that teams a buttery crust with a gooey molasses and lemon filling. It’s a dessert recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a special holiday gathering or just a cozy night at home.

If you’ve never heard of Montgomery Pie before, you’re in for a treat! This pie has been a favorite among my friends and family for years, and I’m excited to share it with you. In this article, I’ll be sharing all the tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years to make the perfect Montgomery Pie.

But before we dive into the recipe, let me tell you why you’ll love this classic pie.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Are you ready to indulge in a classic Pennsylvania Dutch Montgomery Pie that will leave you wanting more? Look no further than this recipe that has been passed down through generations and perfected in the Coalcracker Kitchen.

What makes this pie so special? It’s the perfect combination of a buttery crust, gooey molasses and lemon filling, and a cake topping that is simply irresistible. The lemon adds a tangy brightness to the rich molasses, creating a flavor profile that is unique and unforgettable.

One bite of this pie will transport you to a simpler time, where homemade desserts were the norm and every bite was savored. It’s the perfect dessert to share with loved ones, or to treat yourself when you need a little pick-me-up.

Plus, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can serve it at a fancy dinner party or a casual family gathering. It pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a hot cup of coffee. It’s also a great dessert to bring to a potluck or to make ahead for a special occasion.

Not convinced yet? This pie has been featured in local newspapers and even caught the attention of Martha Stewart. It’s a classic recipe that has stood the test of time and is sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.

So what are you waiting for? Get your ingredients together and start baking. You won’t regret it.

Ingredient List

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a look at what we’ll need to make these delicious Montgomery Pies. This classic Pennsylvania Dutch dessert requires flour, eggs, cold water, lemon, molasses, sugar, and baking powder for the filling. For the crust, we’ll need shortening, margarine, milk, flour, and sugar. Here’s the complete ingredient list:

For the filling:

• 2 cups flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1 egg
• 1 cup water
• 1 lemon (juice and zest)
• 1/2 tsp baking powder

For the crust:

• 4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups shortening
• 1/2 cup margarine
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup milk

Don’t worry, these ingredients are easy to find at your local grocery store, and you might even have most of them in your pantry already!

The Recipe How-To

Preparing the Dough

To start with the Montgomery Pie recipe, we need to prepare the dough. In a large bowl, add 2 cups of flour, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Mix the dry ingredients well. Then add a 1/2 cup of shortening and 1/2 cup of margarine. Using a pastry cutter or your hands, blend the shortening and margarine until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Then add 1 egg and 1/2 cup of cold water to the mixture. Mix until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two parts, one for the bottom layer and the other for the top layer.

Making the Filling

For the filling, we need to prepare two mixtures. In a medium bowl, mix 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of molasses, and 1 egg until well combined. This mixture will be used for the bottom layer.

In another medium bowl, mix 2 cups of sugar, 1 cup of molasses, 1/2 cup of milk, 1/2 cup of flour, and the juice and zest of 1 lemon until well combined. This mixture will be used for the top layer.

Assembling the Pie

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Roll out the dough for the bottom layer to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Place it in the pan and trim the edges. Pour the first mixture into the pie crust. Roll out the dough for the top layer and place it on top of the filling. Trim the edges and make a few slits on the top layer to allow the steam to escape.

Baking the Pie

Bake the pie in the preheated oven for about 45 to 50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. Let it cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Optional

If you want to add a twist to your Montgomery Pie recipe, you can try adding 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the bottom layer mixture. You can also substitute the lemon zest with orange zest for a citrusy kick.

Enjoy your Montgomery Pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Substitutions and Variations

While the Montgomery Pie Recipe is a classic dish that many people enjoy, there are always ways to switch things up and create new variations. Here are a few suggestions for substitutions and variations for the Montgomery Pie Recipe:

– Flour: While the recipe calls for unbleached all-purpose flour, you can experiment with different types of flour such as whole wheat or almond flour.

– Molasses: If you don’t have molasses on hand, you can use honey or maple syrup instead. Keep in mind that this will change the flavor profile of the pie.

– Lemon: The lemon in the recipe adds a tangy flavor to the sweet filling. If you’re not a fan of lemon, you can leave it out or substitute it with orange or lime juice.

– Shortening and Margarine: If you don’t have shortening on hand, you can use all butter instead. You can also substitute margarine for the shortening, but keep in mind that margarine has a higher water content than shortening, which may affect the texture of the crust.

– Milk: If you don’t have milk on hand, you can use buttermilk or cream instead.

– Sugar: While the recipe calls for granulated sugar, you can experiment with different types of sugar such as brown sugar or coconut sugar.

– Pie Size: Montgomery pies are traditionally made in a 9-inch pie dish, but you can also make them in mini pie dishes or in a larger 10-inch pie dish. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

– Toppings: Some people like to add a crumb topping or whipped cream to their Montgomery pie. You can also sprinkle some chopped nuts on top for added texture and flavor.

Remember, cooking is all about experimentation and finding what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to try new things and create your own unique variations of the Montgomery Pie Recipe.

Serving and Pairing

Once your Montgomery Pies are out of the oven and have cooled down a bit, it’s time to serve them up! This classic pie teams a buttery crust with a gooey molasses and lemon filling, making it a perfect addition to any dessert table.

For a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch experience, serve your Montgomery Pies with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The sweetness of the filling pairs perfectly with the richness of the cream or ice cream, creating a heavenly combination of flavors and textures.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing your Montgomery Pies with other classic pie recipes like shoofly pie, pecan pie, or coconut pie. These dessert recipes all share a similar sweetness and richness, making them great companions for your Montgomery Pies.

For a more savory pairing, try serving your Montgomery Pies with a hearty soup or stew. The sweetness of the pie can help balance out the saltiness of the main dish, creating a well-rounded meal that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.

No matter how you choose to serve your Montgomery Pies, make sure to enjoy every bite of this classic dessert. The humble pie may not be as flashy as some of its counterparts, but it certainly holds its own when it comes to flavor and comfort.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

The Montgomery Pies can be made ahead of time to save you time and hassle in the kitchen. You can store the pie in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze it for up to two months. To freeze the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to serve the pie, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in the oven.

To reheat the pie, preheat your oven to 350°F. Remove the plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and then place the pie in the oven. Heat the pie for 10-15 minutes or until it’s warmed throughout. You can also reheat individual slices of pie in the microwave for 20-30 seconds on high.

It’s important to note that the Montgomery Pie is best served fresh, as the texture and taste can change after being stored or reheated. However, if you’re short on time, these storage and reheating tips will help you enjoy your pie at a later time without sacrificing too much of its original charm.

Pro tip: If you’re making the pie ahead of time, it’s best to store the filling and crust separately to prevent the crust from getting soggy. Then, assemble the pie just before baking to ensure that it’s as fresh as possible.

Tips for Perfect Results

Now that you have all the ingredients ready and you’re ready to start baking your Montgomery pies, let me share some tips to ensure you get the perfect results every time.

1. Use a pastry blender

To make the perfect pie crust, you need to use a pastry blender when cutting in the shortening or margarine into the flour. It’s the most effective way to get the right consistency for your crust.

2. Chill the dough

After mixing the dough, it’s important to chill it for at least an hour. This allows the dough to rest and makes it easier to roll out. It also helps prevent the crust from shrinking when baked.

3. Use a preheated oven

Make sure your oven is preheated to the right temperature before you put your pies in. This ensures even baking and prevents the pies from being undercooked or burnt.

4. Use a pie shield

To prevent the edges of your pies from burning, use a pie shield or cover the edges with foil. This allows the center of the pie to cook evenly without the edges becoming too brown.

5. Let the pie cool before slicing

It’s important to let your Montgomery pies cool completely before slicing. This allows the filling to set and prevents it from oozing out when you cut into it.

6. Experiment with flavors

While the classic Montgomery pie recipe is delicious on its own, you can also experiment with flavors. Try adding lemon zest or juice to the filling for a tangy twist. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to make the perfect Montgomery pies every time. Happy baking!

FAQ

Before we conclude this article, I want to address some frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the Montgomery Pies Recipe. These questions will help you understand the recipe better and prepare you for making the best pie possible. So, let’s dive right in!

What is Montgomery pie made of?

In this recipe, we’ll be making a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dessert that combines a rich and flaky crust with a sweet and tangy filling made with molasses and lemon. On top of that, we’ll add a layer of moist and tender buttermilk cake. Get ready for a delicious and comforting treat that will take you back in time!

What is humble pie made of?

Did you know that the term humble pie has its roots in Middle English? It is derived from the word “umbles,” which refers to the edible internal organs of animals. Surprisingly, humble pie is actually made from offal.

What is it called shoofly pie?

Indulge in the delectable Shoofly pie, a classic dessert originating from Lancaster County, PA. This sweet treat features a flavorful combination of molasses, brown sugar, and a crumbly topping. Its rich taste and gooey texture have made it a beloved favorite among pie lovers for generations. Don’t miss out on the chance to try this mouthwatering pastry.

What pie is Alaska known for?

This recipe is a fusion of traditional Russian cuisine and Alaskan flavors. Pirok, also known as perok or peroche, is a savory salmon pie that has been embraced by the Alaskan community.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, the Montgomery Pies Recipe is a Pennsylvania Dutch classic that is sure to delight your taste buds. This humble pie teams a buttery crust with a gooey molasses and lemon filling that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving it for dessert on a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this pie is sure to be a hit.

With the help of this recipe article, you now have all the tools you need to make a perfect Montgomery Pie at home. From the ingredient list to the step-by-step instructions, we’ve got you covered. We’ve even included tips for substitutions and variations, serving and pairing suggestions, and advice on how to make ahead, store, and reheat your pie.

So what are you waiting for? Get baking and experience the deliciousness of Montgomery Pie for yourself. Whether you’re a fan of classic pies like shoofly, pecan or chess, or just looking for a new dessert recipe, this is one you won’t want to miss. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for it.

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