Pies are the quintessential comfort food, and there’s a type for every taste, from fruity to creamy, rustic to refined. In this guide, we’re diving into the world of pies, explaining the subtle differences between some of the most beloved varieties, like galettes, crostatas, and classic fruit pies. Whether you’re an experienced baker or someone simply looking for a slice of dessert inspiration, these pie types will surely tempt you to bake.
Double-Crust Pie
For those who can’t get enough of a flaky, buttery crust, double-crust pies are a dream come true. These pies feature a top and bottom crust, often used for both sweet and savory pies. Think classic chicken pot pie with a crisp, golden crust, or a berry pie crowned with an intricate lattice topping. The double-crust pie is versatile, allowing you to highlight everything from fruits to hearty fillings like meat or vegetables.
Fruit Pie
Fruit pies are as simple as they are delicious, filled with nature’s sweet bounty. From apple pie to berry and peach varieties, these pies celebrate the beauty of seasonal produce. Fruit pies can be baked year-round, with options like rhubarb pie in spring and apple or cranberry pies in the colder months. Each pie reflects the flavors of the season, making them timelessly popular.
Hand Pies
If you want a quick, bite-sized pie, hand pies are your answer. These miniature versions of traditional pies bake faster and are perfect for on-the-go indulgence. Hand pies can be filled with anything from apple cinnamon to pumpkin or cherry. For ease, you can use pre-made puff pastry, saving time without sacrificing flavor.
Chiffon Pie
Chiffon pies are light, airy, and often perfect for hot summer days. These pies feature a filling made with gelatin, egg yolks, whipped cream, and fruits like lemon or strawberry. The texture is delicate, and the pies are often refrigerated to set before serving. A classic option is lemon chiffon pie, though pumpkin versions are equally popular during fall.
Cream Pie
Cream pies, such as coconut cream, chocolate cream, or lemon cream pie, have a rich, pudding-like filling. These pies usually don’t require baking; instead, the filling sets in the fridge after being poured into a pre-baked crust. The base consists of whipped cream and egg yolks, creating a smooth, decadent dessert. Make sure to use pasteurized eggs to ensure safety when consuming raw eggs.
Custard Pie
Custard pies, unlike cream pies, require baking. They consist of a smooth, custard-like filling made with eggs, cream, and sometimes sugar. Think pumpkin pie or sweet potato pie, where the filling bakes until firm and perfectly sliceable. The texture is denser than that of a cream pie, and the flavors are rich and comforting.
Galette
Galettes are the rustic, free-formed pies that don’t require a pie dish. Instead, pie dough is rolled into a large circle, filled with fruits like apples or blueberries, and then folded over on the edges to form a casual, relaxed crust. Galettes are perfect when you’re short on time or bakeware but still crave something warm and delicious. Since they’re shallow, galettes bake faster than traditional pies.
Crostata
A crostata is the Italian cousin of the galette. These pies can be either sweet or savory, with popular fillings like apricot jam or a savory combination of scallions and soy sauce. Crostatas are similar to galettes in that they’re free-form, but the crust tends to be a bit sturdier. Whether filled with fruit or vegetables, a crostata offers a delightful balance of crispy crust and flavorful filling.
Tart
Tarts are sometimes considered a cousin of pies, but they have distinct characteristics. Unlike the typical pie made with a pie crust, tarts are made with a short crust, similar to shortbread. The short crust maintains its shape better, which is key for the delicate nature of tarts. They are typically baked in a tart pan with fluted edges, and the filling is often lighter and more refined than the hearty fillings found in pies.
Pies, whether traditional or with a twist, offer endless possibilities. From comforting fruit-filled versions to airy chiffon pies, there’s a pie for every occasion. So, next time you’re feeling indecisive about dessert, remember: there’s no wrong way to enjoy a slice!
