Innkeeper’s Pie is a delightful vintage recipe that brings together a flaky pie crust, a luscious vanilla cake layer, and a rich chocolate fudge topping. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a holiday celebration. The unique combination of flavors and textures makes it stand out among traditional desserts. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, ensuring your guests will be impressed without keeping you in the kitchen for hours.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of vanilla cake and chocolate fudge creates a mouthwatering contrast that will leave everyone asking for more.
- Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, making Innkeeper’s Pie is simple enough for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for celebrations or casual dinners; this pie fits seamlessly into any occasion.
- Nostalgic Appeal: This vintage recipe evokes memories and stories, making it a great conversation starter.
- Customizable Toppings: While toasted walnuts add great texture, you can easily switch them out for other nuts or toppings according to your preferences.
Tools and Preparation
To make Innkeeper’s Pie successfully, having the right tools on hand is essential. These items will help you create this delicious dessert with ease.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9-inch pie plate
- Mixing bowls
- Stand mixer with paddle attachment
- Small sauté pan
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk or spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- 9-inch pie plate: This ensures your pie has the right shape and size for even baking.
- Stand mixer with paddle attachment: Makes mixing batter quick and efficient, yielding a smooth consistency.
- Medium saucepan: Needed for melting chocolate and combining ingredients without burning anything.
Ingredients
Innkeeper’s Pie is a vintage recipe with a pie crust filled with vanilla cake and a layer of chocolate fudge underneath. Add a sprinkle of chopped, toasted walnuts on top before baking.
For the Pie Crust and Topping
- 1 9-inch pie crust, unbaked
- ½ cup chopped walnuts, toasted (pecans or pine nuts could also be substituted)
For the Chocolate Layer
- ½ cup water
- 1 ½ ounces unsweetened chocolate
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup butter
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla
For the Vanilla Cake Layer
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla
To Serve
- 1 cup of heavy cream to whip and serve over each slice, or buy already whipped cream.
How to Make Innkeeper’s Pie
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F to ensure it reaches the right temperature while you prepare the pie.
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust
Lay the pie dough into a 9-inch pie plate. Fold the edges in to double their thickness. Using your knuckles or thumbs, flute the edge for decoration. Place it back in the refrigerator while preparing other ingredients so it stays firm.
Step 3: Toast the Nuts
Chop the walnuts finely. In a small sauté pan over medium heat, toast them until golden brown. Set aside once done.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Turn off the burner and add unsweetened chocolate. Stir until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients for Chocolate Layer
Add granulated sugar to melted chocolate and bring back to boil briefly. Remove from heat; stir in butter and vanilla until combined. If needed, return to low heat until butter melts completely.
Step 6: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
Step 7: Cream Butter and Sugar
In your stand mixer bowl with the paddle attachment, cream softened butter. Add sugar and beat for one minute until light and fluffy.
Step 8: Add Egg
Add in one large egg to your creamed mixture. Beat until well combined; scrape down sides of bowl as necessary.
Step 9: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
With the mixer running on low speed, alternately add milk and dry ingredients until fully mixed. Then add in vanilla extract; mix just until combined.
Step 10: Assemble Layers
Remove the chilled pie crust from refrigerator. Scrape batter into prepared pie shell evenly across bottom.
Step 11: Pour Chocolate Layer
Stir chocolate mixture again then pour it over the cake layer gently.
Step 12: Add Walnuts
Sprinkle toasted walnuts evenly over top of the pie before baking it in preheated oven.
Step 13: Bake
Bake for about 45 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. As it bakes, you’ll notice that chocolate sinks while cake rises—creating its unique texture!
Step 14: Cool & Serve
Let cool before cutting into eight wedges. Serve each piece topped with freshly whipped cream or store-bought whipped cream if preferred.
Step 15: Store Leftovers
If there are leftovers (though unlikely!), store them covered in your refrigerator to enjoy later!
How to Serve Innkeeper’s Pie
Innkeeper’s Pie is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.
With Whipped Cream
- Serve each slice with a generous dollop of whipped cream for added richness and texture.
A la Mode
- For a classic twist, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of each slice, creating a delightful contrast between hot and cold.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- Enhance the chocolate flavor by drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the pie before serving.
Fresh Berries
- Pair the pie with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a fruity and refreshing complement.
Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy Innkeeper’s Pie with a cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness and create a cozy atmosphere.
Nut Garnish
- Top each slice with extra chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and nutty flavor.
How to Perfect Innkeeper’s Pie
Perfecting Innkeeper’s Pie requires attention to detail and care in preparation. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out beautifully every time.
- Use fresh ingredients – Always opt for fresh eggs, quality butter, and good chocolate for the best flavor.
- Chill the crust – Keeping the pie crust cold helps it maintain its shape during baking, preventing shrinkage.
- Monitor baking time – Check your pie around the 45-minute mark; every oven varies slightly, so adjust as needed.
- Don’t rush cooling – Allow the pie to cool completely before cutting. This helps set the layers properly.
- Experiment with nuts – While walnuts are traditional, try using pecans or pine nuts for different flavors.
- Serve warm or cold – Innkeeper’s Pie is delicious both ways! Experiment with serving temperatures to find your favorite.
Best Side Dishes for Innkeeper’s Pie
While Innkeeper’s Pie stands strong on its own, pairing it with certain side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Vanilla Ice Cream – A creamy scoop enhances the richness of the pie and adds a delightful chill.
- Chocolate Mousse – This light and airy dessert complements the dense texture of Innkeeper’s Pie beautifully.
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a bright contrast that balances the sweetness.
- Cheese Platter – Offer a selection of cheeses like brie or aged cheddar to create an interesting flavor combination.
- Coffee Cake – A slice of coffee cake can provide an additional sweet option if you’re serving brunch or breakfast.
- Custard Sauce – Drizzle homemade or store-bought custard over each slice for an extra layer of creaminess.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Innkeeper’s Pie, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the chilling step: Failing to chill the pie crust can lead to a tough texture. Always refrigerate the crust after shaping it.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can create a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using incorrect amounts can throw off your recipe. Invest in a kitchen scale or use measuring cups properly.
- Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different, so don’t rely solely on the timer. Check for doneness with a toothpick instead.
- Neglecting to toast nuts: Skipping this step can result in bland flavors. Toasting enhances the nuttiness and adds depth to your Innkeeper’s Pie.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Innkeeper’s Pie in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Innkeeper’s Pie
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then foil for best results.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Innkeeper’s Pie
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place pie on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices for 30-45 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Innkeeper’s Pie?
Innkeeper’s Pie is a delightful dessert featuring a vanilla cake layer topped with rich chocolate fudge and sprinkled with toasted nuts.
Can I make substitutions in the recipe?
Yes! You can substitute walnuts with pecans or pine nuts, and you can use any milk variety you prefer.
How do I serve Innkeeper’s Pie?
Serve slices of Innkeeper’s Pie with whipped cream on top for an extra touch of indulgence.
Is Innkeeper’s Pie suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! Its unique layers make it perfect for celebrations or cozy family gatherings.
How do I prevent my pie crust from burning?
To prevent burning, cover the edges of the crust with foil if they brown too quickly during baking.
Final Thoughts
Innkeeper’s Pie is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for various nut options or even flavored extracts. It’s perfect as a comforting dessert that evokes nostalgia. Give this recipe a try; you’re sure to impress your friends and family!
Innkeeper’s Pie
Innkeeper’s Pie is a charming vintage dessert that perfectly balances a flaky pie crust, a moist vanilla cake layer, and a decadent chocolate fudge topping. This delightful treat is ideal for any occasion—be it family gatherings or festive celebrations. Its unique combination of flavors and textures creates an unforgettable experience for your taste buds. Surprisingly easy to prepare, this recipe allows you to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (toasted)
- 1 ½ ounces unsweetened chocolate
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup whole milk
- Whipped cream for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Fit the pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate and chill while preparing other ingredients.
- Toast the chopped walnuts in a small sauté pan over medium heat until golden brown.
- Melt unsweetened chocolate in a medium saucepan with boiling water; stir until smooth.
- Mix melted chocolate with sugar, then add butter and vanilla until fully combined.
- In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt together.
- Cream softened butter and sugar until fluffy; add egg and mix well.
- Alternately add milk and dry ingredients to the creamed mixture; stir in vanilla extract.
- Spread the cake batter evenly in the chilled pie crust, pour the chocolate layer on top, and sprinkle walnuts before baking.
- Bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 100g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
