Pies, Pies, Pies Yeah!

Remember that song, “Lies, Lies, Lies Yeah” from the Thompson Twins back in the mid-1980’s? Well, as soon as I wanted to compile a list of my favorite Thanksgiving Day pies, that song popped into my head. I know the lyrics have nothing to do with pie or pie making, but I think the title of this post makes it an attention grabber, like a good pie will be on your holiday table.

Pie is about two things – crust and filling – both are necessary to have a good pie. In most recipes I use all-butter in my crusts, but sometimes I do add a tablespoon or two of shortening, to make it just a bit more tender. As far as fillings go, well they can be anything from fruit to chocolate and everything in between.

Home bakers ask me, “should I bake my pie in a glass, ceramic or metal pie pan?” I would say, use what you already have in your kitchen because they all will do the job. However, I mostly use ceramic and glass pie plates to bake in, and I choose the pan depending upon the edge I want to create with the crust, and how high the filling needs to be. Another thing about pies versus tarts – they are similar to bake, just the shape of the pan is different, but the ingredients are mostly the same. Pie is one of those desserts that people love to eat, especially at Thanksgiving, and here’s a list of my favorites that I hope you and your family will enjoy!