Introduction
Baltimore Bomb Pie is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed for over a century. This rich and decadent pie originated in the late 1800s when German immigrants settled in Baltimore, Maryland. The original recipe consisted of layers of sweetened cream cheese and graham cracker crumbs, topped with a layer of cherries or other fruit filling. Today, the pie is a staple in Baltimore’s culinary scene, and many bakeries and restaurants offer their own unique variations.
A brief history of Baltimore Bomb Pie
The history of Baltimore Bomb Pie is closely tied to the city’s German-American community. The pie’s base, which is made up of sweetened cream cheese and graham cracker crumbs, is similar to a type of German cheesecake called käsekuchen. However, the addition of a fruit filling sets Baltimore Bomb Pie apart from traditional cheesecakes.
One popular origin story for the pie is that it was created by bakers in Baltimore who were looking for a way to use up their excess graham cracker crumbs. These bakers began layering the crumbs with cream cheese and fruit filling, and a new dessert was born.
Over time, the pie has evolved to include variations beyond the traditional cherry filling. Some bakeries offer versions with coconut or chocolate chips mixed into the cream cheese layer, or with a layer of chocolate ganache on top.
Why you should try making your own
While Baltimore Bomb Pie is a beloved dessert in Baltimore, it can be hard to find outside of the city. Fortunately, making your own pie is a relatively simple process. By using a few key ingredients and following a clear recipe, you can recreate this classic dessert at home.
Making your own Baltimore Bomb Pie also allows you to customize the flavors and textures to your own preferences. You can experiment with different fruit fillings or try adding in other ingredients, like nuts or spices. Plus, there’s something special about being able to serve a homemade dessert to your family and friends.
In conclusion, Baltimore Bomb Pie is a classic dessert with a rich history and a unique flavor profile. By learning its origins and making it yourself, you can appreciate the dessert even more and impress your loved ones with your baking skills.
Ingredients needed
Refrigerated pie dough
The Baltimore Bomb Pie recipe calls for an unbaked deep dish pie crust. Using store-bought refrigerated pie dough makes this step easy and convenient.
Berger cookies
A signature ingredient of the Baltimore Bomb Pie is 15 oz. of Berger cookies. These cookies are a local Baltimore favorite, with a fudgy chocolate frosting on top of a vanilla wafer.
Unsalted butter
Sweet cream butter and unsalted butter are both needed in this recipe. For the pie filling, ½ cup of sweet cream butter, softened, is mixed with granulated sugar, 3 large eggs, cornmeal, apple cider vinegar, vanilla extract, flour, baking soda, salt, buttermilk, and more vanilla extract. For the frosting, ⅓ cup of unsalted butter, softened, is mixed with semi-sweet chocolate chips, and heavy whipping cream.
Large eggs
Three large eggs are used to make the pie filling. One large egg is used for the frosting.
Granulated sugar
½ cup of granulated sugar is used in the pie filling.
Apple cider vinegar
One tablespoon of apple cider vinegar is added to the pie filling.
Vanilla
Pure vanilla extract is used in both the pie filling and the frosting.
Cornmeal
One tablespoon of cornmeal is added to the pie filling to help thicken it.
All purpose or almond flour
One and a quarter cup of all-purpose or almond flour is needed for the pie filling.
Overall, the Baltimore Bomb Pie recipe may seem daunting at first, but with store-bought pie crust and Berger cookies, it can be made easily at home. The combination of a chess pie filling with a layer of fudgy chocolate frosting on top of a Berger cookie crust makes for a rich and indulgent dessert that is sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth.Preparing the dough
To start making the Baltimore Bomb Pie, preheat the oven to 350 degrees and take the refrigerated pie dough out of the packaging. Roll out the pie dough and place it in a deep dish pie plate. The use of a pre-made pie crust makes the process much easier and convenient.
Steps to prep the refrigerated pie dough
The refrigerated pie dough should be taken out of the packaging and left to soften for a few minutes. It can then be rolled out to the desired thickness and carefully placed in the pie plate. Any excess dough can be trimmed off using a sharp knife or kitchen shears.
How to achieve the perfect consistency
When rolling out the dough, it’s important to do so evenly so that it cooks evenly in the oven. Aim for a thickness of around ⅛ inch to ¼ inch. If the dough is too thick, it may take longer to cook and result in a less crispy crust. If it’s too thin, it may burn easily.
Once the dough is in the pie plate, it’s important to prick the bottom with a fork to prevent air bubbles from forming during baking. This will help the crust to cook evenly and stay flat. The crust can then be pre-baked in the oven for 8-10 minutes until it starts to turn golden brown.
In summary, preparing the refrigerated pie dough is an easy and crucial step in making the Baltimore Bomb Pie. By following these simple steps, anyone can achieve the perfect consistency and ensure that their pie crust comes out crispy and delicious.Creating the filling
To create the delicious filling for the Baltimore Bomb Pie, the recipe calls for a combination of Berger cookies and other ingredients. First, an unbaked deep-dish pie crust made with store-bought refrigerated pie dough is prepared. Then, 15 oz. of Berger cookies are crushed and evenly spread over the pie crust.
Next, the filling is made by mixing together ½ cup of sweet cream butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, three large eggs, one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, one tablespoon of cornmeal, one and a quarter cup of all-purpose or almond flour, one teaspoon of baking powder, a pinch of salt, ⅔ cup of buttermilk, and two teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. Once the mixture is smooth and well-combined, it is poured over the crushed Berger cookies in the pie crust.
Tips on getting the right texture
To achieve the perfect texture for the Baltimore Bomb Pie, it is important to pay attention to a few key details. First, make sure that the sweet cream butter is completely softened before mixing it with the other filling ingredients. This will help ensure that the pie filling is smooth and not lumpy.
Additionally, it is important to use the right amount of buttermilk. While buttermilk helps to create a tangy flavor in the pie filling, too much of it can make the filling too runny. Make sure to measure out exactly ⅔ cup of buttermilk and mix it into the filling slowly.
Finally, it is important not to overmix the pie filling. Overmixing can cause the filling to become too dense, resulting in a texture that is unappetizing. Mix the filling just until it is smooth and well-combined.
In conclusion, creating the filling for the Baltimore Bomb Pie is a relatively simple process that requires just a few key ingredients and some attention to detail. By following the recipe closely and paying attention to the tips outlined above, anyone can create a delicious and indulgent pie that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Baking the pie
Preparation before baking
Once the filling for the Baltimore Bomb Pie has been prepared and poured into the pie crust with the crushed Berger cookies, it is time to bake the pie. Before doing so, there are a few important steps to take.
First, preheat the oven to 350°F. This will ensure that the oven is at the correct temperature for baking the pie. While the oven is heating up, prepare a baking sheet to place the pie on during baking. This will help catch any drips or spills from the pie and make it easier to handle.
Once the oven is preheated and the baking sheet is prepared, carefully place the pie onto the baking sheet and slide it into the oven. It is important to keep the pie level during this process to prevent any spillage.
How long to bake the pie?
Bake the Baltimore Bomb Pie in the preheated oven for approximately 40 to 50 minutes. The exact baking time will depend on the depth of the pie dish and the consistency of the filling.
To check if the pie is done, insert a toothpick or a knife into the center of the pie. If it comes out clean, the pie is ready. If there is wet filling on the toothpick, continue baking the pie for a few more minutes before checking again.
Once the pie is fully baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for at least one hour before serving. This will help the pie set and make it easier to slice.
In conclusion, baking the Baltimore Bomb Pie is a straightforward process that requires just a few basic steps. By following the instructions outlined above, anyone can create a delicious and indulgent pie that is sure to impress..
Serving suggestions
Cold glass of milk as the perfect accompaniment
Baltimore Bomb Pie is a rich and decadent dessert that demands something cold to complement it. A cold glass of milk is the perfect accompaniment as it cuts through the sweetness of the pie and helps to cleanse the palate. Vanilla ice cream is another great option as it adds a creamy texture that balances out the flavors. Make sure to serve the pie when it’s still warm from the oven and add a scoop of ice cream before serving to allow it to melt and seep into the pie’s filling.
Other serving options to consider
If you want to add a unique twist to your serving options, consider topping the pie with whipped cream, caramel sauce, or chocolate shavings. You could even try adding a dollop of whipped cream on top of a scoop of ice cream before serving. Non-dairy alternatives such as oat milk or almond milk are great alternatives for those with dietary restrictions. You can also serve it with coffee or tea to add to the overall experience.
To make the pie even more festive for the occasion, you can even add some holiday decorations as a finishing touch. Some great options are crushed candy canes, red and green frosting, or even a sprinkle of edible gold dust.
In conclusion, Baltimore Bomb Pie is a dessert that requires the perfect accompaniment to enhance its flavors. A cold glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream are the classic options that never fail to impress. However, there are many other alternatives that one can explore to add a unique twist. With a little creativity and some experimentations, one can easily make the pie a standout dish of any dinner party.
Tips and tricks
Tips for keeping the Berger cookies inside the pie
One of the challenges of making Baltimore Bomb Pie is ensuring that the Berger cookies stay in place and don’t sink to the bottom of the pie. One useful tip is to freeze the Berger cookies for a few hours before adding them to the pie. This will help to keep their shape and prevent them from breaking apart during baking. Another technique to try is to mix a small amount of cornmeal into the filling mixture before adding in the Berger cookies. The cornmeal will help to thicken the mixture and provide a better grip for the cookies to cling onto.
How to prevent the pie from becoming too dry
Since Baltimore Bomb Pie is a fairly rich and sweet dessert, it’s important to prevent it from becoming too dry. One effective way to do this is to use a mix of all-purpose flour and almond flour in the crust. The almond flour adds a nutty flavor and moisture to the pie, while the all-purpose flour provides structure and helps to hold everything together. Another key tip is to brush the crust with an egg wash before baking. This will help to create a shiny and golden crust that’s also crispy and flaky.
Other tricks to try include using whole milk instead of skim milk, as the higher fat content will add richness to the filling. Additionally, chilling the dough before rolling it out and using a glass pie dish will also help to ensure that the pie doesn’t become too dry.
By following these tips and tricks, anyone can make a delicious and decadent Baltimore Bomb Pie that’s sure to impress and delight. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a special occasion, this pie is a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for indulging in.
Cooking Variations
Baltimore Bomb Pie is a dessert that is loved by many, and it’s not hard to understand why. The rich, gooey filling and the flaky, buttery crust make it the perfect dessert to serve for any occasion. If you’re looking to add some variety to your Baltimore Bomb Pie recipe, here are some variations you can try.
Different variations of Baltimore Bomb Pie recipe to try
1. Pumpkin Bomb Pie: This variation of the Baltimore Bomb Pie includes pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and nutmeg, giving it a delicious fall flavor.
2. Samoas Bomb Pie: For those who love caramel and chocolate, this variation is perfect. It contains caramel sauce, toasted coconut, and chocolate chips.
3. Chocolate Chip Bomb Pie: This variation adds chocolate chips to the traditional Baltimore Bomb Pie filling, giving it a delicious chocolatey twist.
4. Peanut Butter Bomb Pie: This variation is perfect for peanut butter lovers and includes a layer of rich and creamy peanut butter in the filling.
5. Nutella Bomb Pie: For those who love chocolate hazelnut spread, this variation is a must-try. It includes Nutella in the filling and can be topped with whipped cream or hazelnuts.
Where to find other creative variants of the recipe
If you’re looking for even more variations of Baltimore Bomb Pie, you can find them online or in cookbooks. Some websites that offer unique twists on this classic dessert include the Food Network, Allrecipes, and Serious Eats. You can also check out cookbooks such as “The Southern Pie Book” by Jan Moon or “First Prize Pies” by Allison Kave for even more creative variations.
In conclusion, Baltimore Bomb Pie is a dessert that can be customized in many ways to suit your tastes. Whether you prefer a classic recipe or a unique twist, there are many variations to explore. With a little creativity and experimentation, you can make this classic dessert a standout dish at any dinner party.
Cooking Variations
Baltimore Bomb Pie is a beloved dessert that combines a chess pie with Berger cookies, creating a decadent chocolate-filled slice of pie. While the classic recipe is undoubtedly delicious, adding some variety can make it even more exciting. Here are some variations that can be added to the Baltimore Bomb Pie recipe.
Different variations of Baltimore Bomb Pie recipe to try
There are several different variations of the Baltimore Bomb Pie recipe that can be tried to add some delicious twists to this classic dessert. Some of the most popular variations include:
1. Pumpkin Bomb Pie: This variation is perfect for fall and includes pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The combination of pumpkin and chocolate will please any crowd.
2. Samoas Bomb Pie: This variation is ideal for anyone who loves caramel and chocolate. It includes caramel sauce, toasted coconut, and chocolate chips, creating a deliciously sweet filling.
3. Chocolate Chip Bomb Pie: This variation adds chocolate chips to the traditional Baltimore Bomb Pie filling, creating the ultimate chocolatey dessert.
4. Peanut Butter Bomb Pie: If you’re a peanut butter fan, this variation is for you. It includes a layer of rich and creamy peanut butter in the filling for an irresistible flavor.
5. Nutella Bomb Pie: This variation is perfect for chocolate-hazelnut spread lovers. It includes Nutella in the filling and can be topped with whipped cream or hazelnuts.
Where to find other creative variants of the recipe
For even more creative takes on the Baltimore Bomb Pie recipe, there are several places to look. The Food Network, Allrecipes, and Serious Eats are excellent resources for unique twists on classic desserts like this one. Cookbooks such as “The Southern Pie Book” by Jan Moon or “First Prize Pies” by Allison Kave also offer many variations that will inspire creativity in the kitchen.
Conclusion
Summarizing the recipe: Baltimore Bomb Pie has enough sweetness to delight the taste buds
Baltimore Bomb Pie is a classic dessert that was born in Maryland. It combines a traditional chess pie with Berger cookies, creating a rich and decadent filling. The addition of chocolate and the flaky pie crusts make this pie irresistible. Any dessert lover will appreciate its goodness.
Final thoughts on why this recipe is worth making at home
Making Baltimore Bomb Pie at home is not only incredibly easy, but it is also much more affordable than purchasing a slice from a bakery. With variations like Chocolate Chip Bomb Pie and Peanut Butter Bomb Pie, this dessert can easily be customized to fulfill the cravings of any sweet tooth. Preparing a homemade Baltimore Bomb Pie with family and friends can make an ideal bonding experience, and it is an excellent tool to impress loved ones with a homemade dessert. It is worth trying this recipe at home.