Flapper pie is a classic Canadian dessert with a smooth vanilla custard filling and a fluffy marshmallow meringue topping. This old-fashioned pie delivers rich flavor with a light, airy finish that melts in your mouth. It works beautifully for holidays, family gatherings, or nostalgic baking days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Smooth, creamy custard filling
- Light marshmallow meringue topping
- Classic vintage dessert appeal
- Perfect make-ahead pie
- Simple ingredients with big flavor
Ingredients

Crust
- 1 baked 9-inch pie crust
Custard Filling
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Marshmallow Meringue
- 3 large egg whites
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Step-by-Step Instructions

- Heat milk in a saucepan over medium heat until warm, not boiling.
- Whisk sugar, cornstarch, salt, and egg yolks in a bowl.
- Slowly whisk warm milk into egg mixture.
- Return mixture to saucepan and cook until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla.
- Pour custard into baked pie crust and cool slightly.
- Beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add sugar and beat until glossy.
- Fold in marshmallows gently.
- Spread meringue over custard and bake until lightly golden.
Tips & Variations
- Stir custard constantly to avoid lumps
- Cool custard slightly before adding meringue
- Toast meringue lightly for classic flavor
- Use a homemade pie crust for deeper flavor
Storage & Freezer Instructions
- Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days
- Store loosely to protect the meringue
- Do not freeze, as texture will change
- Serve chilled for best consistency
Serving & Pairing Ideas

- Serve chilled with coffee or tea
- Add fresh berries on the side
- Pair with vanilla ice cream
- Slice using a clean, sharp knife
Frequently Asked Questions
What is flapper pie made of?
Flapper pie uses a baked crust, vanilla custard filling, and a marshmallow-based meringue topping.
Why is my custard runny?
Cook the custard until fully thickened before removing it from heat.
Can I make flapper pie ahead of time?
Yes. Chill the pie fully before serving for best texture.
Is flapper pie served warm or cold?
Serve flapper pie chilled for clean slices and set custard.
Ready to Make It?
This flapper pie brings classic comfort and nostalgic flavor to your kitchen. Take your time with the custard, whip the meringue until fluffy, and enjoy a dessert that feels both light and indulgent. Save this recipe for special occasions or whenever you crave a vintage favorite.
You Might Also Like
- Saskatoon Berry Pie – A traditional pie with sweet-tart berry filling.
- Old-Fashioned Brown Sugar Icebox – A no-bake vintage dessert favorite.
- Empire Cookies with Sweet Icing – Soft sandwich cookies with jam and icing.
- Salted Caramel Truffles – Bite-sized treats with deep caramel flavor.
Flapper Pie
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
Description
Classic flapper pie with smooth vanilla custard and fluffy marshmallow meringue. A vintage Canadian dessert.
Ingredients
1 baked 9-inch pie crust
2 cups whole milk
½ cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
¼ teaspoon salt
3 large egg yolks
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large egg whites
½ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon cream of tartar
1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions
1. Warm the milk gently.
2. Whisk sugar, cornstarch, salt, and egg yolks.
3. Temper with milk and return to heat.
4. Cook until thickened.
5. Stir in butter and vanilla.
6. Fill crust with custard.
7. Whip egg whites with cream of tartar.
8. Add sugar and fold in marshmallows.
9. Spread meringue and bake until golden.
Notes
Stir custard constantly.
Cool slightly before topping.
Do not freeze.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Canadian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 95mg