Canadian Flapper Pie

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Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Canadian Flapper Pie, you will need:

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)

For the Custard Filling:

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Meringue Topping:

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make Canadian Flapper Pie:

  • 9-inch Pie Pan – For baking the pie.
  • Mixing Bowls – For combining ingredients.
  • Saucepan – For cooking the custard filling.
  • Electric Mixer – For whipping the meringue.
  • Spatula – For spreading the meringue.
  • Whisk – For mixing and blending.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix the Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
  3. Press into Pan: Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan to form an even crust.
  4. Bake the Crust: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the custard filling.

2. Prepare the Custard Filling

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
  2. Add Milk and Cook: Gradually add the milk to the dry ingredients, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, whisking continuously, until the mixture begins to thicken and comes to a gentle boil.
  3. Temper the Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add a small amount of the hot milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper them. Gradually add the tempered egg yolks back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture.
  4. Cook Until Thickened: Continue to cook the custard, whisking constantly, until it thickens further and begins to bubble. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Add Flavorings: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. Mix until the butter is melted and the custard is smooth.
  6. Pour into Crust: Pour the custard filling into the prepared graham cracker crust and spread it evenly with a spatula.

3. Prepare the Meringue Topping

  1. Beat Egg Whites: In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
  2. Add Sugar: Gradually add the granulated sugar, a tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat the egg whites until stiff, glossy peaks form.
  3. Spread the Meringue: Spread the meringue evenly over the custard filling, making sure to seal the edges to the crust to prevent it from shrinking away during baking.

4. Bake the Pie

  1. Bake: Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
  2. Cool: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. The custard will firm up as it cools.

Tips and Tricks

  • Avoid Weeping Meringue: To prevent meringue from weeping (separating), ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of any grease or residue.
  • Customize the Flavor: For a different twist, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard filling or use almond extract instead of vanilla.
  • Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating the pie for a few hours or overnight allows the flavors to meld and makes slicing easier.

How to Store Canadian Flapper Pie

Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. The pie will keep well for up to 3-4 days. For the best texture, it’s best enjoyed within a day or two of baking.

Variations on the Recipe

  • Chocolate Flapper Pie: Add cocoa powder to the custard filling for a chocolate version of this classic dessert.
  • Fruit Flapper Pie: Stir in some fresh fruit or fruit preserves into the custard before baking for a fruity twist.
  • Nutty Crust: Mix some finely chopped nuts into the graham cracker crust for added texture and flavor.

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