As someone who has always had a sweet tooth—yes, that’s me stuffing my face with cookies while baking—I've spent my fair share of time hunting down indulgent desserts. Imagine a pie so rich, so delightful, that it almost feels like a crime to eat it.
That's where the famed Crack Pie from Momofuku Milk Bar comes into play. With its creamy filling nestled in a buttery crust, it's a dessert that leaves a lasting impression. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and learn how to make it right in our own kitchens.
What is Momofuku Milk Bar Crack Pie Recipe?
Crack Pie is a signature dessert from the Momofuku Milk Bar, founded by the talented chef Christina Tosi. It’s infamous for its gooey filling and crunchy, oatmeal cookie crust. The name "Crack Pie" isn’t just a quirky moniker; it alludes to its addictive nature. Trust me, you won't be able to stop at just one slice. With its harmonious blend of sweet and salty flavors, this pie is made with simple ingredients but yields extraordinary results.
What makes it special, you ask? It's that perfect contrast between the creamy filling and the crisp crust. You're in for a treat that's both luxurious and heartwarming.
Why You'll Love This Momofuku Milk Bar Crack Pie Recipe
Here’s the kicker: not only is this pie delicious, but it’s also incredibly rewarding to make. Your friends and family will be blown away when you set this masterpiece on the table. The anticipation builds as they take their first bite, eyes widening in delight. You'll relish in the joy of sharing something so special that people will want your secret recipe. This pie is perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or even a cozy night in by yourself—no judgment here!
The Ingredients
Gathering your ingredients is the first step toward dessert heaven. Here's what you'll need:
For the Oatmeal Cookie Crust:
40 grams (¼ cup) all-purpose flour
60 grams (¾ cup) old-fashioned rolled oats
84 grams (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened (divided)
45 grams (3 tablespoons) light brown sugar (divided)
20 grams (1½ tablespoons) granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk
0.25 grams (scant pinch) baking powder
0.25 grams (scant pinch) baking soda
2 grams (½ teaspoon) kosher salt (divided)
1 teaspoon finely chopped toasted almonds (optional for extra crunch)
For the Filling:
4 large egg yolks
113 grams (8 tablespoons, 1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
80 grams (¼ cup + 2 tablespoons) heavy cream
150 grams (¾ cup) granulated sugar
90 grams (¼ cup + 2 tablespoons) light brown sugar
10 grams (2 tablespoons) powdered milk
12 grams (2 tablespoons) cornstarch (optional; for thickening)
3 grams (¾ teaspoon) kosher salt
2 grams (½ teaspoon) pure vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, gives warmth)
Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Now that we've got everything, let's head to the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Before you mix anything, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A warm oven allows your crust to bake perfectly golden and crisp.
Step 2: Make the Oatmeal Cookie Crust
- In a bowl, mix together the flour, oats, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. This mixture is the building block of your crust.
- Add the softened butter (not melted, please) and the egg yolk. Mix until the dough starts to clump together.
- Finally, sprinkle in the baking powder, baking soda, and salt. If you feel adventurous, toss in those chopped almonds for some extra flavor and texture.
Step 3: Firm Up Your Crust
- Press the dough into a greased pie dish evenly. Make sure to cover the bottom and walls. It doesn’t have to look perfect; a rustic charm works wonders.
- Bake this in the oven for about 15-20 minutes or until it's golden brown. Let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, melted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until smooth.
- Next, incorporate the heavy cream, powdered milk, cornstarch (if using), salt, vanilla, and cinnamon into the mixture. The filling should be silky smooth and creamy at this point.
Step 5: Assemble the Pie
- Pour the creamy filling into the cooled crust. Smooth the top as you go.
- Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes. The edges should look firm, and the center may jiggle slightly.
Step 6: Cool and Dust
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. It’s important to let it cool completely before slicing.
- Just before serving, dust the top with confectioners’ sugar. This gives it that classic bakery look.
Tips & Tricks
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures better mixing and a creamier filling.
Don’t Skip Cooling: Allow the pie to cool completely. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.
Experiment with Mix-Ins: Try adding chocolate chips or caramel swirls for a unique twist.
Serving Temperature: This pie can be served chilled or at room temperature based on personal preference.
Make it Ahead: You can bake this pie a day ahead. It stores beautifully in the fridge.
Nutrition Information
Let’s be honest—this pie is not a health food, but it does bring joy. Here’s a rough estimate for one slice (1/12 of a pie):
Calories: Approximately 400
Total Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 200mg
Total Carbohydrates: 40g
Sugars: 25g
Protein: 4g
Can I store Momofuku Milk Bar Crack Pie?
Absolutely! This pie stores well. Here’s how:
In the Fridge: Cover it tightly and it will last up to 5 days.
Freezing: You can freeze slices individually, wrapped in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It will be good for about 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
What can I serve with Momofuku Milk Bar Crack Pie?
Pairing is key! Here are some ideas:
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop on the side balances the richness.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it compliments the pie perfectly.
Fresh Berries: Strawberries or blueberries add a fruity freshness.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some on top for an added indulgence.
Coffee: A cup of coffee can enhance the flavors of this dessert.
Variations
Want to shake things up? Here are five variations to consider:
Salted Caramel Crack Pie: Add swirls of caramel sauce into the filling for a sweet and salty experience.
Chocolate Chip Crack Pie: Fold in mini chocolate chips to the filling before baking for a decadent treat.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans in the crust for added texture.
Lemon Zing: For a citrus twist, add zest from one lemon and a bit of lemon juice to the filling.
Coconut Delight: Stir in toasted shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Conclusion
Making Momofuku Milk Bar Crack Pie is more than just following a recipe; it’s an adventure. From gathering ingredients to sharing the finished product with loved ones, every step is gratifying. You’ve crafted something unique, something that stands on its own. So why wait? Gather your supplies and unleash your inner baker. This pie is a firm reminder that life is too short not to indulge in sweet moments. Happy baking!
You’ll also like the following recipes!