Innkeeper Pie

Innkeeper Pie Recipe - A Delicious Dessert for Every Occasion

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 60 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Innkeeper Pie is a delicious and decadent dessert that combines a rich chocolate filling with a flaky pastry crust and sweetened whipped cream. This indulgent treat is perfect for special occasions or anytime you're craving something sweet and satisfying.

History

The origins of Innkeeper Pie are a bit murky, but it is believed to have originated in the American South as a variation of traditional chocolate pie recipes. The name "Innkeeper Pie" may have come from the idea that this dessert is so rich and satisfying that it would be perfect for serving to guests at an inn or bed and breakfast.

Ingredients

0.67 cup + 0.75 cup sugar, divided
0.33 cup Hershey's cocoa
1 cup water
0.33 cup butter or margarine
2.5 tsp vanilla extract, divided
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 cup shortening
0.5 cup milk
1 egg
0.5 cup chopped nuts

Pastry crust

1.33 cup all-purpose flour
0.5 tsp salt
0.13 tsp baking powder
0.5 cup shortening
3 tbsp cold water

Sweetened whipped cream

1 cup (0.5 pt (237 ml)) cold whipping cream
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

How to prepare

Prepare the pastry crust.
Heat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a medium saucepan, stir together 0.67 cup of sugar and cocoa; then stir in water.
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture boils; then boil and stir for 1 minute.
Remove from heat; add butter and 1.5 tsp of vanilla, stirring until the butter is melted.
Set aside.
In a small bowl, stir together flour, the remaining 0.75 cup of sugar, baking powder, and salt; then add shortening, milk, and the remaining 1 tsp of vanilla.
Beat on medium speed of an electric mixer for 2 minutes.
Add the egg; beat for 2 minutes.
Spoon the batter into the prepared crust.
Stir the chocolate mixture; then gently pour it over the batter.
Sprinkle nuts over the top.
Bake for 55 to 60 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in the cake portion comes out clean.
Cool slightly; serve warm with sweetened whipped cream.

Pastry crust

In a medium bowl, stir together flour, salt, and baking powder.
Cut in shortening until the pieces are the size of small peas; then sprinkle in water, tossing with a fork until all the flour is moistened.
Roll the dough into a circle about 0.13 inch thick.
Fit it into a 9-inch pie plate; flute the edge.

Sweetened whipped cream

In a small bowl, combine cold whipping cream, sugar, and vanilla extract.
Beat until stiff.

Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the pie before serving.
You can also experiment with different types of nuts in the filling, such as pecans or almonds, for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to follow the instructions for preparing the pastry crust carefully to ensure a flaky and tender crust.

- When making the chocolate filling, be sure to stir constantly to prevent the mixture from burning or sticking to the pan.

- For the best results, serve the pie warm with a dollop of sweetened whipped cream on top.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm slices of Innkeeper Pie with a generous dollop of sweetened whipped cream on top for a decadent and satisfying dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to preheat your oven before baking the pie to ensure even cooking.

- When making the pastry crust, handle the dough gently to prevent it from becoming tough.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have shortening on hand, you can use butter or margarine as a substitute.

- You can also use almond or coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative in the filling.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the pastry crust and chocolate filling ahead of time and assemble the pie just before baking. Store the components separately in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Presentation Ideas

Serve slices of Innkeeper Pie on decorative dessert plates with a dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Innkeeper Pie pairs well with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of cold milk for a satisfying dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Innkeeper Pie contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Innkeeper Pie contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Innkeeper Pie contains approximately 25 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Innkeeper Pie contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Innkeeper Pie is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (milk, whipping cream, butter) and nuts (chopped nuts). It may also contain eggs and wheat (flour).

Summary

Innkeeper Pie is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in calories, fat, and carbohydrates. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Innkeeper Pie is a rich and decadent dessert that is perfect for special occasions or anytime you're craving something sweet and satisfying. With a flaky pastry crust, rich chocolate filling, and sweetened whipped cream, this indulgent treat is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. It was a rainy afternoon, and I had taken shelter in a quaint little inn in the countryside. The innkeeper, a kind and jovial woman with a twinkle in her eye, had invited me into her cozy kitchen to escape the dreary weather outside.

As I sat at the wooden table, sipping a steaming cup of tea, I watched as the innkeeper bustled about, preparing a delicious pie for the evening's dessert. The scent of cinnamon and apples filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

I couldn't help but ask the innkeeper for the recipe, curious to learn the secrets behind such a delectable treat. With a smile, she handed me a tattered old recipe card, the ink faded and smudged from years of use.

"This is my grandmother's recipe," the innkeeper explained. "She used to make this pie for special occasions, and it's been a favorite here at the inn ever since."

I eagerly took the recipe card, grateful for the opportunity to recreate this beloved dish in my own kitchen. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I knew that this pie would be a labor of love, requiring time and patience to perfect.

The innkeeper noticed my hesitation and offered to guide me through the process, sharing tips and tricks that had been passed down through generations. Together, we peeled and sliced apples, seasoned them with a blend of spices, and carefully arranged them in a flaky crust.

As the pie baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with a heavenly aroma, the innkeeper regaled me with stories of her family and their long history of hospitality. She spoke of the joy that came from sharing good food with others, of the memories that were created around the dinner table.

When the pie was finally done, golden and bubbling, we each took a slice and savored the sweet and tangy flavors. The innkeeper's eyes sparkled with pride as she watched me enjoy her grandmother's creation, knowing that the recipe had been passed down and cherished for generations.

I left the inn that evening with a full belly and a warm heart, grateful for the experience and the new recipe that I had acquired. As I drove away in the fading light, I knew that I would always treasure the memory of that rainy afternoon spent in the company of a kind innkeeper and her delicious pie.

Now, every time I make the innkeeper's pie in my own kitchen, I am transported back to that cozy inn in the countryside, surrounded by laughter and good food. And as I share the pie with my loved ones, I pass on not only a delicious recipe but also a piece of history and tradition that will be cherished for years to come.