The Flapper Pie: A Vanille Crisp Cracker Meringue Delicacy

The Flapper Pie, a celebrated vanilla custard pie topped with meringue, has an intriguing and storied history. Its origins can be traced back to the 1930s and have since become a beloved dessert in Canadian prairie provinces, especially in Alberta and Saskatchewan.

The Origins and Popularity of Flapper Pie

Although the exact origins of Flapper Pie remain uncertain, a recipe attributed to Mrs. Thomas Silk of Huntington, California, was first published in the Cleveland OH Plain Dealer on February 21, 1930. This recipe was a hit and quickly gained popularity, particularly in Alberta and Saskatchewan, where it remains a cherished local treat to this day.

Flapper Pie was also promoted by Christie's Honey Maid Graham Wafers in the 1960s, which further enhanced its popularity in Western Canada. The pie's appeal lies in its simplicity and versatility, making it a staple of Canadian prairie culture. It has been featured in regional newspapers such as the Edmonton Journal and the Saskatoon Star-Phoenix throughout the 20th century, cementing its place in the culinary history of these provinces.

Ingredients and Preperation of Flapper Pie

Flapper Pie can be prepared with a traditional base of graham crackers, vanilla custard, and a meringue topping. Here is a classic recipe:

Flapper Pie Recipe

14 large graham crackers 1/2 cup sugar 1/4 cup melted butter 3 tablespoons corn starch 3/4 cup brown sugar 2 cups milk 2 egg yolks 1 teaspoon vanilla 2 egg whites 4 tablespoons granulated sugar 1 tablespoon melted butter

Crust: Roll the graham crackers into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter and sugar. Place half of this mixture into a pie pan and mold it like pastry.

Filling: In a double boiler, combine cornstarch, brown sugar, milk, egg yolks, vanilla, and 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Cook until thick. Fill the lined pie pan with the custard mixture.

Meringue Topping: Beat the egg whites until stiff, adding 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar for each egg white. Spread the meringue on top of the custard. Sprinkle the remaining graham cracker crumbs over the meringue. Bake in a moderate oven for 20 minutes at 300°F (150°C). Chill and serve cold.

Flapper Pies can also be enhanced with other fillings, such as bananas, caramel, or even lemon, as demonstrated in older recipes. This adaptability ensures that it remains a versatile dessert.

The Flapper Pie Legacy

The Flapper Pie has become a cultural icon in Saskatchewan and is often served at local culinary events. It has also been featured in regional newspapers and cookbooks, continuing to play a significant role in the culinary landscape of Western Canada. The pie's rustic charm and straightforward preparation make it accessible and appealing to home cooks and bakeries alike.

Conclusion

Flapper Pie is not just a dessert; it is a symbol of Canadian prairie culture and a delightful fusion of classic American ingredients and baking techniques. Its rich history and enduring popularity make it a treasured part of Canadian culinary heritage. Whether you enjoy it with vanilla custard or a twist with fresh fruit, the Flapper Pie remains a cherished treat that continues to delight generations of pie enthusiasts.