Gold-flaked lemon pie sweeps baking contest

From left, judges Chris Mendez, Per Nolan and Alan Golinsky rate 24 different pies according to flavor, texture, crust and overall presentation. (Nov. 9, 2019) Photo by Zachary Snowdon Smith/The Cordova Times
From left, judges Chris Mendez, Per Nolan and Alan Golinsky rate 24 different pies according to flavor, texture, crust and overall presentation. (Nov. 9, 2019) Photo by Zachary Snowdon Smith/The Cordova Times

A pie-baking contest drew entries ranging from traditional apple and pumpkin to a lemon and lowbush cranberry jelly pie topped with an elaborate mass of gold-flecked meringue. The contest was held by Cordova Moose Lodge #1266 during a Saturday, Nov. 9 prime rib dinner in recognition of the military. Active and inactive military members were admitted free to the event.

The Loyal Order of Moose is a fraternal organization that supports civic causes and organizes events like the Nov. 9 dinner.

As competition judges, Alan Golinsky, Chris Mendez and Per Nolan volunteered to sample an array of pies and rate them by consensus. Winners were chosen in four categories: taste and flavor; consistency and texture; crust; and presentation. Winners in each category received a gift certificate for one free dinner at the Moose Lodge.

While some Moose Lodge staff members were skeptical that the judges would be able to make it through the 24-pie lineup, Mendez claimed afterward that he wasn’t even full.

“It was a pleasure to eat all this pie,” Mendez said. “They all are pretty decent quality, across the board. You could tell that people took the time and effort to do their best.”

The lemon meringue with lowbush cranberry jelly pie awarded best overall in the contest. (Nov. 9, 2019) Photo by Zachary Snowdon Smith/The Cordova Times
The lemon meringue with lowbush cranberry jelly pie awarded best overall in the contest. (Nov. 9, 2019) Photo by Zachary Snowdon Smith/The Cordova Times

Cordova Moose Lodge pie-baking contest winners

Taste and flavor
Cranberry rhubarb pie – Tori Baker

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Consistency and texture
Apple raspberry pie – Holly Rikkola

Crust
French silk pie – Mariesa Woods

Presentation
Lemon meringue with lowbush cranberry jelly pie – Jason Platt and Ria Beedle

Best overall
Lemon meringue with lowbush cranberry jelly pie – Jason Platt and Ria Beedle

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