Description
Mennonite Funny Cake Pie is a unique Pennsylvania Dutch dessert that combines the best of both worlds—pie and cake. With a flaky crust, fluffy vanilla cake, and a hidden layer of rich chocolate syrup that magically bakes to the bottom, this nostalgic recipe is both comforting and fun. Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or anytime you want a conversation-starting treat.
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
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place pie crust on a baking sheet.
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In a saucepan, whisk ½ cup sugar and cocoa. Stir in water and bring to a boil until smooth. Remove from heat and add ½ tsp vanilla. Let cool slightly.
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Cream butter with remaining ½ cup sugar until fluffy. Beat in egg and ½ tsp vanilla.
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Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Add to butter mixture alternately with milk, mixing just until combined.
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Spread cake batter into the pie crust. Carefully pour chocolate syrup over the top—do not stir.
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Bake 35–40 minutes, until cake is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
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Cool 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Add nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- Stir cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a spiced version.
- Bake in mini pie tins for individual servings.
- Drizzle with chocolate glaze or dust with powdered sugar for presentation.
- Serve with whipped cream, berries, or ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Dutch
