Shoo-Fly Bake
Shoo-Fly Bake is a classic Pennsylvania Dutch dessert with a sweet, molasses flavor and a crunchy crumb topping, perfect for cozy family gatherings or holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix by hand the flour, sugar, salt, and shortening until crumbly.
- Reserve 1 1/2 cups of crumbs for topping.
- Add ginger, cloves, and cinnamon to the remaining mixture.
- Dissolve the soda in the warm water.
- Add the water mixture to the flour mixture and beat until smooth.
- Stir in the molasses until well combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Sprinkle the reserved crumbs on top of the batter.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar, or try adding a splash of vanilla extract. If you don't have shortening, unsalted butter can be a great substitute. Make sure to mix the dry ingredients thoroughly before adding the wet ones to ensure even distribution of spices.
Serving Suggestions
This Shoo-Fly Bake is delightful served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top or alongside a cup of coffee. It pairs beautifully with a refreshing slice of Blueberry Or Blackberry Pie for dessert. You can also serve it as a breakfast treat or brunch item, complemented by fresh fruit or a drizzle of Aunt Ann'S Salad Dressing.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 15-30 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shoo-Fly Bake contains roughly 223 calories, with 5g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (61% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1516mg per serving (66% 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 a different type of molasses?
Yes, while Brer Rabbit dark molasses gives a rich flavor, you can use light molasses for a milder taste. However, avoid using blackstrap molasses as it is much stronger and more bitter, which could alter the final flavor of the dish.
What can I do if my mixture is too dry?
If your mixture seems too dry, add a tablespoon of warm water at a time until you reach a smooth batter consistency. Mixing thoroughly between additions is essential to achieve the right texture without compromising the final result.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter the day before, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. Just remember to add the reserved crumbs right before baking. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert or breakfast option.
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).