Flapper Pie

Preheat your oven to a warm 350˚F (175˚C) and prepare yourself to create this delightful dessert. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly coated and hold together when pressed. Reserve about 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of this crumb mixture for a final topping flourish. Press the remaining crust mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate, creating an even layer. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, allowing it to set and brown slightly — this ensures a crisp, flavorful base. While the crust bakes, prepare your vanilla custard filling. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, granulated sugar, cornstarch, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or whisk to prevent lumps and scorching. Continue until it thickens to a luscious pudding-like consistency with gentle bubbling, then remove from heat and set aside to cool. Next, whip up the meringue topping. Using a stand mixer with the beater attachment or a large bowl and electric mixer, beat the egg whites with granulated sugar and cream of tartar. Whip until the mixture forms stiff, glossy peaks that stand firmly when the beaters are lifted — this gives your pie that signature airy top. To assemble, pour the cooled custard filling into the baked crust, smoothing it evenly. Dollop the meringue generously over the custard, spreading it to cover fully and creating little peaks with the back of a spoon or spatula — these will turn beautifully golden in the oven. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture atop the meringue for an added hint of cinnamon-sweet crunch. Return the assembled pie to the oven and bake for about 10 minutes until the meringue is browned delicately. Keep a close eye to ensure it doesn't burn. Finally, chill the pie in the refrigerator and enjoy within a few hours. The pie is best savored fresh, as the meringue’s texture softens over time. For a professional touch, serve chilled slices with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream.