Poverty Pie 1940's
Transport yourself to the resilient kitchens of the 1940s with this timeless Poverty Pie, a humble yet comforting dessert born from resourceful cooking during tough times. This simple recipe combines a flaky homemade crust with a spiced, custard-like filling made from pantry staples like sugar, milk, and eggs, infused with warm cinnamon and nutmeg for a nostalgic touch. Perfectly golden and irresistibly aromatic, this Depression-era pie is a testament to how creativity flourishes in simplicity. With just 20 minutes of prep time and a short list of affordable ingredients, this dessert is an easy, budget-friendly favorite that serves six. Whether you enjoy it warm or at room temperature, Poverty Pie is a charming, vintage recipe that brings history to life—one delicious slice at a time!
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Ingredients
- 1.5 cups flour
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.5 cups shortening or lard
- 4 tablespoons cold water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1.5 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 0.5 teaspoons cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoons nutmeg
Directions
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2
In a medium bowl, mix the flour and salt together.
Step 3
Cut in the shortening or lard using a pastry cutter or two knives until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4
Gradually add the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Do not overwork.
Step 5
Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it is large enough to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Place the dough into the pan and trim any excess around the edges.
Step 6
In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, milk, vanilla extract, egg, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
Step 7
Pour the filling mixture into the prepared pie crust.
Step 8
Place the pie in the oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
Step 9
Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving. This pie can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (988.4g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2768.8 |
| Total Fat 135.8g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 53.4g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 2.2g | |
| Cholesterol 364.7mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1437.7mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 357.4g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 5.7g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 218.9g | |
| Protein 37.5g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 214.8IU | 0% |
| Calcium 524.8mg | 0% |
| Iron 9.4mg | 0% |
| Potassium 851.0mg | 0% |
Source of Calories