The official fruit of Missouri is the Paw-Paw (who knew?). Most states flex on apples, blueberries, peaches, blackberries, tomatoes or even pumpkins. The only other state that officially has included the paw-paw is Ohio, as it is their state “native” fruit while the official state fruit is the tomato.

Late summer into early fall is when paw-paws become ripe across the Show-me state. Next question is; how do you enjoy/consume the paw-paw? The (not so) easy answer is pie. Yes, Paw-Paw pie.

Due to the small ripening window and not being great travelers, the delicate paw-paws are not found in grocery stores. Perhaps if you ask around at a local farmers market you could purchase some. Better yet make friends with people who have paw-paw trees. That scenario will get you the best paw-paws. Yes you need a paw-paw hook-up. Or you could grow your own.

Several recipes are out there for paw-paw pie. There is paw-paw pretzel pie, paw-paw custard pie with pecans. Paw-Paw cookies with black walnuts have their devotees too. But if you want to keep it real you'll just want paw-paw cream pie. Paw-Paw Pudding can be had in St. Louis too.

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So, while everyone is making gooey butter cake and butterscotch pie, you “true native sons” can roll proper with the ultimate Missouri special sweet treat the paw-paw pie.

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