Maine Molasses Pie
A rich, sweet molasses pie with warm spices, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy desserts, offering deep flavors and a nostalgic taste of New England.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat all ingredients together and turn into an unbaked pastry shell.
- Bake in a hot oven (450°F) for 10 minutes.
- Reduce heat to moderate (350°F) and bake for 30 minutes longer, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the best texture, ensure your molasses is fresh and of good quality. If you prefer a less intense sweetness, consider reducing the molasses slightly and adding more sugar. For a richer flavor, you can substitute brown sugar for part of the granulated sugar. Also, make sure to use a deep dish pastry shell to accommodate the filling. Serve this pie with whipped cream or ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Serving Suggestions
This pie is delicious served warm or chilled. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the rich molasses flavor. It also goes well with a side of spiced apple compote for a seasonal touch. For a complete meal, consider serving it after a hearty dish such as Grandma's Beef Stew or with a light salad like Grandpa's Salad Dressing.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Maine Molasses Pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm the whole pie in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maine Molasses Pie contains roughly 328 calories, with 5g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 a different type of sweetener instead of molasses?
While molasses is the star ingredient, you can experiment with dark corn syrup or honey for a different flavor profile. However, this will alter the final taste and texture. If using honey, consider a slightly lesser amount as it's sweeter than molasses.
Is it necessary to use fresh lemon juice?
Yes, fresh lemon juice adds a bright acidity that balances the sweetness of the molasses. Bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh will yield the best flavor and aroma for this pie.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pie can be made up to a day in advance. Simply bake it, let it cool completely, and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
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).