Name: Mennonite Funny Cake Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Dutch
Ingredients: 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought); 1 cup granulated sugar (divided); ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ½ cup water; 1 tsp vanilla extract (divided); ¼ cup butter, softened; 1 large egg; ½ cup milk; 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted; 1 tsp baking powder; ⅛ tsp salt

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Mennonite Funny Cake Pie is a nostalgic Pennsylvania Dutch dessert with a delightful surprise inside. Baked in a flaky pie crust, it layers rich chocolate syrup beneath a light, fluffy vanilla cake. The magic happens in the oven—the chocolate sinks to the bottom while the cake rises to the top, creating a two-in-one treat that’s both comforting and unique.

Mennonite Funny Cake Pie

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines pie and cake in one dessert
Unique chocolate layer hidden beneath the cake
Nostalgic Pennsylvania Dutch classic
Uses simple pantry staples
Fun recipe to bake with kids—like magic in the oven
Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or potlucks
Delicious served plain or with toppings
Easier than it looks, with no complicated steps
A conversation-starter dessert with history
Freezer-friendly for make-ahead treats

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup granulated sugar (divided)
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup water
1 tsp vanilla extract (divided)
¼ cup butter, softened
1 large egg
½ cup milk
1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
1 tsp baking powder
⅛ tsp salt

directions

Preheat oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the pie crust on a baking sheet.
Make chocolate syrup: In a saucepan, whisk together ½ cup sugar and cocoa powder. Add water and bring to a gentle boil, stirring until smooth (1–2 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in ½ tsp vanilla. Let cool slightly.
Make cake batter: Cream softened butter with the remaining ½ cup sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and ½ tsp vanilla.
Mix dry ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Combine: Alternately add dry mixture and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Assemble: Pour the cake batter evenly into the unbaked pie crust. Carefully pour the chocolate syrup over the batter—do not stir.
Bake: Bake 35–40 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean.
Cool and serve: Let cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

Yield: 1 pie (8 servings)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Nutty Topping: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter.
Mini Pies: Make smaller versions using mini pie tins.
Glazed Finish: Drizzle with chocolate or vanilla glaze after cooling.
Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut to the cake batter.
Mocha Flavor: Replace some of the water in the chocolate syrup with brewed coffee.
Fruit Pairing: Serve with fresh berries or a dollop of jam.
Whipped Cream: Top with lightly sweetened whipped cream for an extra treat.
Powdered Sugar Dusting: Finish with a simple dusting for elegance.
Double Chocolate: Stir mini chocolate chips into the cake batter.

storage/reheating

Room Temperature: Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheat: Warm slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in the oven at 325°F for 5–7 minutes.

FAQs

Why is it called “Funny Cake Pie”?

The name comes from its unique baking trick—chocolate syrup sinks to the bottom while cake rises to the top, creating a “funny” layered effect.

What type of crust is best?

A classic flaky pie crust works best, either homemade or store-bought.

Can I use a chocolate crust?

Yes, though it will make the dessert extra rich and chocolatey.

Do I need to stir the chocolate into the batter?

No, the magic happens when you pour the chocolate over the batter and let it settle naturally during baking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, Funny Cake Pie can be baked a day in advance and stored covered until ready to serve.

How do I know when it’s done?

The top should be golden and a toothpick inserted into the cake layer should come out clean.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and use a gluten-free crust.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply bake in two pie crusts if making for a larger group.

Is this pie served warm or cold?

It can be served warm, room temperature, or chilled—depending on preference.

What toppings go well with this pie?

Whipped cream, powdered sugar, chocolate glaze, or even ice cream make perfect accompaniments.

Conclusion

Mennonite Funny Cake Pie is a Pennsylvania Dutch treasure that combines the best of both worlds: pie and cake in one dessert. With its rich chocolate layer, fluffy vanilla cake, and flaky crust, it’s a charming and delicious treat that never fails to surprise and delight. Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, this nostalgic recipe is a sweet slice of tradition worth keeping alive.