Flapper Pie Recipe

Flapper Pie is a classic Canadian prairie dessert, beloved for its rich custard filling, graham cracker crust, and fluffy meringue topping. Originating in the early 20th century, it became a staple at community gatherings and family dinners across the Prairies. Saskatchewan, known for its agricultural heritage and strong sense of community, embraced this simple yet indulgent pie as a comforting treat. Often served at church suppers and local bake sales, Flapper Pie remains a nostalgic symbol of prairie hospitality and home baking traditions.

Here’s a classic Flapper Pie recipe, a traditional Canadian prairie dessert with a creamy custard filling and a graham cracker crust.

Serves: 8

Ingredients

Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
⅓ cup melted butter
¼ cup sugar

Custard Filling:

2 ½ cups milk
½ cup sugar
3 tbsp cornstarch
3 egg yolks (reserve the whites for the meringue)
1 tsp vanilla extract

Meringue Topping:

3 egg whites
¼ tsp cream of tartar
6 tbsp sugar

Instructions

1. Make the Crust:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl.
Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie plate, covering the bottom and sides.
Bake for 10 minutes. Remove and let cool while preparing the custard.

2. Prepare the Custard Filling:

In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it’s warm but not boiling.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch.
Gradually add the sugar mixture to the warm milk, whisking constantly.
In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly temper the eggs by adding a small amount of the hot milk mixture to the yolks, whisking constantly. Then pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan.
Continue cooking over medium heat until thickened, stirring frequently.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour the custard into the prepared crust.

3. Make the Meringue:

In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
Spread the meringue over the custard, ensuring it touches the crust to seal it.

4. Bake and Serve:

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
Allow to cool at room temperature, then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving.

Enjoy your delicious and nostalgic Flapper Pie!