JACZ is a go-to hangout through late spring, summer and even a smidge into fall for sky-scraping burgers, lip-smacking fry sauce, mini golf and, of course, the sweets! Because JACZ’s amazing staff is made up mostly of local students, the drive-in closes up shop during the school year.
If you’re anything like us, you’re already missing those burgers and milkshakes, but there’s good news: you can still get your JACZ fix (kind of). One of the best parts about a JACZ visit is checking out their cooler of to-go goodies. And the crown jewels of that cooler? The pies. Each one is lovingly homemade by owner Jason’s mom, Donna. And everyone knows Mom’s touch makes it sweeter.
And while you can’t grab one of Donna’s pies every day right now, you can learn to make them yourself. Join Donna for a Pie Baking Class on Wednesday, Nov. 19 at 6 p.m at JACZ (located at 107157 HWY 89, Etna, WY 83118). You’ll learn how to make your own crust pies just in time for the holidays, get insider tips and tricks, share a few laughs and take home a couple of mini pies plus a baking gift bag.
Cost: $75 per person
Reserve your spot: Venmo Donna at @Donna-Ivie (1558) with the note “pie class”
Questions? Email jaczdrivein@gmail.com
In preparation for this fun event, we got to know Donna a little better. Here’s her story:
When did you start baking?
My mother was a good baker but didn’t like to cook. I started watching her at a young age in the kitchen. After I learned to read, I started reading recipes. My favorite thing to do is to sit and go through recipe boxes and try new recipes. I love to cook and bake. As a family, we would go to different restaurants, come home, and try to make it new. Living in a small town without many options for different restaurants, we would come home and create our own recipes.
Any baking or cooking mishaps?
One family story was when I was first married, my mother-in-law had me make cowboy cookies while they were out milking the cows. Her recipe card had a smudge, and I noticed the flour amount was wrong. When I made the first pan, they spread out way too thin and were hard as a rock! I hurried out to the barn to show her, and she laughed and said that I had only added half as much flour as I needed.
Another time I made enchiladas for my family. They were so spicy that no one could eat them. I put them outside for the dog, and he wouldn’t even eat them!
Got a recipe that will make someone fall in love?
When I was in college, my roommate taught me how to make a pineapple cream pie. I had met this boy on the wrestling team and really wanted to get to know him better. I made the pie and invited him to my apartment for a slice. He said yes, and unbeknownst to me, pineapple was one of his favorite fruits. He loved the pie, and after 46 years of marriage, he says the pie is what won his heart—and maybe a little bit of my southern accent!
What’s your favorite holiday to bake for?
I love to bake for every holiday. Christmas is my favorite. I love baking Christmas cookies with my grandchildren. I’ve made cakes, cookies and bread with my grandchildren.
Any words of wisdom you’re will to share before we come to your class?
Use homemade pie filling. Don’t handle your crust too much or put too much flour on it. It makes it stiff. Homemade everything is always the best. Don’t be afraid to experiment, I have had lots of mistakes, and you can always start over… And better yet come to my class on November 19!
