German Molasses Cakesor Sho-Fly Pie
German Molasses Cakes, also known as Sho-Fly Pie, offer a rich, moist treat with deep molasses flavor and a hint of caramel. Perfect for dessert or teatime, they appeal to those who enjoy sweet, spiced baked goods with a tender crumb and a slightly chewy topping. A comforting, nostalgic classic.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the flour, sugar, shortening, and salt in a bowl.
- Take out 1 cup of batter and set aside for the topping.
- Combine water, molasses, and baking soda to the remaining batter and mix well.
- Fill cupcake tins lined with cupcake papers with the batter.
- Sprinkle the reserved 1 cup of batter over the filled cupcake tins as a topping.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you're out of shortening, unsalted butter can be a great substitute. Ensure your molasses is fresh for the best taste. If you'd like to experiment, you can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for an extra kick. For a more decadent treat, drizzle with Williamsburg Inn Honey Sauce before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These molasses cakes are delightful served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. They pair beautifully with Hot Russian Tea (Low Calorie) for a cozy dessert experience. For an added touch, sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar on top before serving to enhance their presentation. Consider serving them alongside a fruit salad for a well-rounded dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week, but allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of German Molasses Cakesor Sho-Fly Pie contains roughly 920 calories, with 10g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1735mg per serving (75% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may alter the texture slightly. For best results, consider using a blend of whole wheat and all-purpose flour to maintain lightness while adding nutritional value.
What can I use instead of molasses?
If you don't have molasses, you can substitute it with dark corn syrup or honey. However, these alternatives will change the flavor profile slightly, so adjust your expectations accordingly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that your other ingredients, like baking soda, are also gluten-free for a safe and delicious variation.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).