The world of desserts is full of mysteries, but few are as intriguing as the square pie. You’ve probably seen it at bakeries, cafes, and even in your own kitchen, but have you ever stopped to think about what to call this enigmatic treat? Is it a pie, a cake, or something entirely different? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the square pie, explore its characteristics, and attempt to answer the age-old question: what do you call a square pie?
A Brief History of the Square Pie
The square pie has its roots in medieval Europe, where bakers would create large, rectangular pastries filled with fruits, nuts, and spices. These early pies were often served at banquets and feasts, and were a staple of the aristocracy. As time went on, the square pie evolved and spread throughout the world, with different cultures adapting their own unique fillings and cooking techniques.
The Rise of the Square Pie in America
In the United States, the square pie gained popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly in the Midwest. It was often served at family gatherings, potlucks, and church functions, where its ease of serving and versatility made it a crowd-pleaser. The square pie was also a staple of American diners and restaurants, where it was often served as a dessert or snack.
Characteristics of the Square Pie
So, what sets the square pie apart from its round counterparts? Here are a few key characteristics that define this unique dessert:
Shape
The most obvious characteristic of the square pie is its shape. Unlike traditional pies, which are typically round, the square pie is baked in a rectangular pan and cut into square or rectangular slices. This shape makes it easier to serve and portion out, particularly in large groups.
Crust
The crust of a square pie is often thicker and more dense than that of a traditional pie. This is because the square pie needs to hold its shape and support the weight of the filling, which can be quite heavy. The crust is also often made with a combination of flour, sugar, and spices, which gives it a unique flavor and texture.
Filling
The filling of a square pie can vary greatly, but it’s often made with a combination of fruits, nuts, and spices. Some common fillings include apple, cherry, and pumpkin, although sweet potato and chocolate are also popular. The filling is often topped with a crumbly streusel topping or a layer of whipped cream.
What to Call a Square Pie
So, what do you call a square pie? The answer is not as simple as it seems. Here are a few options:
Pie
One option is to simply call it a pie. After all, it’s a baked dessert with a crust and a filling, which is the basic definition of a pie. However, this can be confusing, particularly when serving the square pie alongside traditional round pies.
Bar
Another option is to call it a bar. This is because the square pie is often cut into bars or squares, rather than slices. This name also emphasizes the dessert’s rectangular shape and ease of serving.
Tart
Some people refer to the square pie as a tart, although this can be misleading. A tart is typically a shallow, open-topped pastry filled with sweet or savory ingredients. While the square pie shares some similarities with a tart, it’s generally thicker and more dense.
Crunch
Finally, some people refer to the square pie as a crunch, due to its crunchy, streusel topping. This name emphasizes the dessert’s texture and flavor, although it may not be immediately clear what type of dessert it refers to.
Conclusion
The square pie is a unique and delicious dessert that has been puzzling bakers and dessert lovers for centuries. While its name may be unclear, its characteristics and history are undeniable. Whether you call it a pie, a bar, a tart, or a crunch, the square pie is a treat that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So next time you’re at a bakery or cafe, be sure to try a slice (or square) of this enigmatic dessert.
Recipe: Apple Square Pie
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try making your own square pie at home? Here’s a simple recipe for an apple square pie that’s sure to please:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup ice-cold water
- 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup streusel topping (see below)
Streusel Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice-cold water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a ball.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll out to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
- Transfer the dough to a 9×13 inch baking dish and trim the edges to fit.
- In a separate bowl, combine sliced apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Arrange the apple mixture in the baking dish, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Top the apple mixture with streusel topping (see below).
- Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Streusel Topping:
- In a small bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in chopped walnuts, if using.
- Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the apple mixture before baking.
Note: This recipe makes one 9×13 inch square pie. You can also make individual square pies using a muffin tin and adjusting the baking time accordingly.
What is the origin of the term “square pie”?
The term “square pie” is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-19th century. During this time, pies were often served at social gatherings and were typically cut into square or rectangular shapes to make them easier to serve and eat. The term “square pie” likely arose as a colloquialism to describe these square-cut pies, which were often made with a variety of fillings such as fruit, custard, or pudding.
Despite its widespread use, the term “square pie” is somewhat of a misnomer, as most pies are actually round in shape. However, the term has stuck, and square pie remains a popular dessert in many parts of the United States. In fact, some bakeries and restaurants have even adopted the term as a marketing tool, using it to describe their own unique takes on traditional pie recipes.
What are some common types of square pie fillings?
There are many different types of fillings that can be used in square pie, depending on the desired flavor and texture. Some common fillings include fruit, such as cherry or blueberry, as well as creamy fillings like custard or pudding. Other popular fillings include nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, and even candy pieces, like M&M’s or chocolate chips.
In addition to these sweet fillings, some square pie recipes also incorporate savory ingredients, such as cheese or herbs. These savory fillings can add a unique twist to the traditional square pie recipe and make it a great option for those looking for a dessert that’s a little bit different. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, there’s a square pie filling out there to suit every taste.
How do I make a square pie crust from scratch?
Making a square pie crust from scratch can be a bit more challenging than making a traditional round pie crust, but with a few simple tips and tricks, you can achieve a delicious and flaky crust. To start, you’ll need to make a dough using flour, butter, and water. The key is to keep the dough cold and to handle it as little as possible, as this will help the crust to retain its shape and texture.
Once you’ve made the dough, you can roll it out into a square shape and place it in a baking dish. To ensure that the crust cooks evenly, it’s a good idea to use a pastry weight or some dried beans to weigh down the crust as it bakes. This will help the crust to cook flat and prevent it from bubbling up in the center. With a little practice, you’ll be making delicious square pie crusts from scratch in no time.
Can I use a pre-made pie crust to make a square pie?
Yes, you can definitely use a pre-made pie crust to make a square pie. In fact, using a pre-made crust can be a great way to save time and simplify the pie-making process. Many grocery stores sell pre-made pie crusts in their baking aisle, and these crusts can be easily rolled out into a square shape and used to make a delicious square pie.
One thing to keep in mind when using a pre-made crust is that it may not be as flaky or tender as a homemade crust. However, many pre-made crusts are still quite delicious and can be a great option for those who are short on time or who don’t feel like making a crust from scratch. Simply follow the package instructions for thawing and baking the crust, and you’ll be on your way to a delicious square pie.
How do I serve a square pie?
Serving a square pie can be a bit more challenging than serving a traditional round pie, but there are a few simple ways to make it look great on the plate. One idea is to cut the pie into small squares or rectangles, which can be served individually or arranged on a platter. You can also use a pastry cutter or a knife to cut out fun shapes from the pie, such as hearts or stars.
In addition to cutting the pie into fun shapes, you can also top it with a variety of ingredients to add flavor and texture. Some popular toppings include whipped cream, ice cream, and fresh fruit. You can also drizzle the pie with chocolate or caramel sauce for a sweet and indulgent treat. Whatever you choose, be sure to have fun and get creative with your square pie presentation.
Can I freeze a square pie for later use?
Yes, you can definitely freeze a square pie for later use. In fact, freezing is a great way to preserve the pie and keep it fresh for several months. To freeze a square pie, simply bake it as you normally would, then allow it to cool completely. Once the pie is cool, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the freezer.
When you’re ready to serve the pie, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours. You can also bake the pie straight from the freezer, although you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Freezing is a great way to enjoy square pie year-round, even when fresh ingredients are out of season.
What are some creative variations on the traditional square pie recipe?
There are many creative variations on the traditional square pie recipe that you can try to mix things up. One idea is to use a different type of crust, such as a graham cracker crust or a crust made with nuts. You can also experiment with different fillings, such as using a combination of sweet and savory ingredients or incorporating fresh herbs into the filling.
Another idea is to make individual square pies, which can be a fun and easy way to serve a crowd. Simply roll out the dough into small squares, fill with your desired filling, and bake until golden brown. You can also use a muffin tin to make individual square pies, which can be a great way to portion out the dessert and make it easier to serve.