I thought one addiction to a Wanda’s Pie in the Sky confection was quite enough. I speak here of the Dulce de Leche Macaroons jokingly dubbed “crack cookies” by the baker-in-chief herself Wanda Beaver. These yummy little creations (dusted with a white powder that is, in fact, icing sugar) consist of a rich brown, delectably chewy exterior that encases an oozy filling of luscious caramel.
Bad enough that I was making regular trips to purchase these at Wanda’s, located mere steps from my house in Kensington Market. Now, I have another reason – even more enticing – to find another toothsome fix at her pie emporium.
Yes, I’m hooked on the indescribably delicious Monkey Bread only baked three or so per day on weekends.
Like Caesar Salad, poutine and countless other famous dishes, Wanda’s creation was a happy accident. It happened one day when she noticed her pastry chef throwing out the remnants of dough left after making croissants. This savvy entrepreneur suggested rolling them into a large piece, layering it with brown sugar, butter and pecans, then twisting it into a Bundt pan. Add a crowning glory of lemon icing to the baked “bread” and you have one heavenly dessert that’s chewy, soft, crunchy and – in a word – divine.
At less than $4 a hunk, this is one relatively harmless addiction that’s worth every penny.
