Classic Canadian Flapper Pie

Ingredients

• For the crust: For the crust:
• 1 ½ cups (180g) graham cracker crumbs 1 ½ cups (180g) graham cracker crumbs
• 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, melted 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• For the custard filling: For the custard filling:
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• ½ cup (120ml) pure maple syrup ½ cup (120ml) pure maple syrup
• ⅓ cup (65g) granulated sugar ⅓ cup (65g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (30g) cornstarch ¼ cup (30g) cornstarch
• 4 large egg yolks 4 large egg yolks
• 2 tsp vanilla extract 2 tsp vanilla extract
• For the meringue topping: For the meringue topping:
• 4 large egg whites 4 large egg whites
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• ½ tsp cream of tartar ½ tsp cream of tartar

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 19g, 11g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 48g, 32g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar for the crust. Mix until well combined.
3. 3.
   Press the crust mixture into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring an even layer.
4. 4.
   Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool completely.
5. 5.
   In a saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks for the custard filling. Whisk until smooth.
6. 6.
   Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and comes to a gentle boil.
7. 7.
   Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
8. 8.
   Pour the custard filling into the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
9. 9.
   In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites for the meringue topping until foamy.
10. 10.
    Add the cream of tartar and continue beating until soft peaks form.
11. 11.
    Gradually add the granulated sugar while beating, until stiff peaks form.
12. 12.
    Spread the meringue over the custard filling, making sure to seal the edges.
13. 13.
    Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
14. 14.
    Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Graham cracker crumbs — If you can't find pre-made graham cracker crumbs, you can crush graham crackers in a food processor or place them in a sealed plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin until you achieve a fine consistency.
• Maple syrup — Opt for pure maple syrup rather than maple-flavored syrup for the best flavor. Grade A or Grade B maple syrup works well in this recipe.
• Cream of tartar — Cream of tartar helps stabilize the meringue and gives it a smoother texture. If you don't have cream of tartar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of lemon juice or white vinegar.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve a perfectly toasted meringue, make sure to spread it evenly over the custard filling, sealing the edges to prevent shrinking.
• Let the pie cool completely before slicing to allow the custard to set properly.
• For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle some crushed graham cracker crumbs on top of the meringue before baking.
• If you prefer a sweeter meringue, you can add a tablespoon of powdered sugar while beating the egg whites.
• Serve the pie chilled for a refreshing treat on warm summer days.

Serving advice

Serve each slice of Flapper Pie with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra indulgent experience. Pair it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk to complement the flavors.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of the Flapper Pie, use a pie server to neatly slice and serve each piece. Garnish the pie with a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.