Feel the breeze and breathe as you take a virtual historic tour to the Canadian Prairies. Why? Well, we are setting the scene as we relay the humble beginnings of the legendary flapper pie, a tantalising dessert with a cookie crust, creamy custard filling and meringue topping. Now, do you understand why you need to breathe? Sugar rush!
The yesteryears of flapper pie
This tasty sweet treat was first created as the Graham cracker cream pie in the early 1900s. Although there is a little confusion as to its exact kitchen of creation, one thing is for sure, it was incredibly popular in the western region of Canada. Although this dish could be ordered in many restaurants or diners, it was more commonly prepared by home cooks.
The flapper pie was named after the popular flapper fashion in Canada during the 1920s. Today, these pies are flavoured quite modestly. However, when they were first invented, they were available in a range of flavours, including banana, coconut and butterscotch. If you wanted to buy a slice of pie in Canada during this time, you would have needed to visit an establishment run by Chinese immigrants.
The sugary creation
Preparing a flapper pie is a relatively simple task. Firstly, Graham cracker crumbs, which are an integral part of this North American cuisine, are mixed with butter and pressed into a fluted pie tin. Next, the crust is filled with a creamy custard which is made from eggs, sugar and butter. Although this custard can be used as-is, the addition of a little cinnamon transforms this filling into a Canadian classic. Finally, the pie is topped with fluffy meringue clouds and baked until the meringue is golden brown and crispy.
This pie is the perfect end to a decadent evening meal. Enjoy a big slice of flapper pie with a cup of coffee and a scoop of ice cream on the side. Alternatively, you could treat yourself to a slice of pie for a midday pick-me-up. This pie is rather toothsome and mellows to the notes of lemonade, tart fruit juice and green or jasmine tea.
Getting your sugar fix
If you would like to experience this yummy sweet treat the way it was meant to be enjoyed, then find a restaurant that keeps their pies refrigerated. Otherwise, the meringue will lose its sensational texture when left to reach ambient temperatures.
There are several restaurants where you can sit back and lose yourself in a slice of flapper pie. Visit Old Seng Choong or Jewel Coffee and treat yourself as you sip on a cup of aromatic drink.
