Yes, New Jersey; there is something good in the middle of nowhere - and it's a pie. Correction. It's is a ton of pies. Double correction. It is a ton of pies that each weigh a ton. It's Penza's Pies at the Red Barn Cafe in rural Hammonton, NJ.
2 miles north of Route 30, in Hammonton, New Jersey, at mile marker 2 on Route 206 IS the middle of nowhere. Most "nowheres" are known for something, though. Considering that the entire American continent was once a "nowhere", until Columbus stumbled upon it, Hammonton is much less of a "nowhere" to many folks in New Jersey, especially those most apt to "phoan hoam" to Philadelphia or Delaware. This "nowhere" is definely a somewhere for foodies!
In any case, Betsy and I just happened to stumble upon a little red barn near Hammonton on the way to visit a local winery called Valenzanos. This little red barn had one of those typical hand-made signs advertising fresh produce and home-baked pies. And, so we stopped in to check it out.
At the door, we were immediately overwhelmed by the heavenly aroma of fruit pies of every type baking in the oven. If that wonderful fragrance wasn't enough, we nearly fell over a counter filled with just-baked sample treats. Who can resist such an offer to taste these local culinary icons?
Yes, icons. A whole wall of reviews by everyone from the New York Times to NBC's Big Al Roker, said so. We soon learned that "Big Al" once broadcasted from Penza's. Probably, BEFORE his stomach stapling took place.
Having sampled a few of the pies used as bait, there was nothing left to do than buy one or two. Problem is. There are too many choices. They are all equally good. And, they are a little pricey at over $20 for the smaller size of two. There is only a slight price differential between small and large. Frankly, whatever size you decide on - these goodies are worth their heavy weight in gold. They are all magnificent works of calories!
This time, we opted for the "Very Berry," which is only available during the summer months. Penza's bakes its pies according to the season. They are currently offering Easter treats. By the way, they also make and sell other good stuff in the round such as a fine line of savory pies. Great, if you are more into cheese and spices on your plate than fruity pies.
Evelyn Penza really runs the place and we are fortunate enough to be able to share one of here amazing pie recipes here for you. Penza's is especially well known for their Ricotta Blueberry Pie. So, you bakers can give it a shot and see if it equals the value of driving out to Hammonton to get the bakery version.
And, this from another Yummy Finder that already has a love affair with Penza's Pies:
One of a kind delicious homeamde pies!. I picked up a delicious Pumpkin Ricotta pie at the Red Barn, after hearing about the cafe on The Food Network. The pie was fantastic, possibly the best I've ever had. It's rare to find any bakery that makes ricotta pie, let alone a mix of ricotta cheese and pumpkin. They also carry a long list of other varieties, such as Apple, Apple & mixed fruit, Blueberry, etc. These pies are worth every penny!
We fully concur!
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