Pie Ideas: What Kind of Pie Should I Bake?

By BrainFall Staff - Updated: April 30, 2024

Deciding on what kind of pie to bake can feel like choosing a favorite child, or at least, a favorite pet. We've all been there; standing in front of our pantries, the scent of potential wafting in the air, pondering whether we should stick to the classic apple or venture into the wilds of blueberry or perhaps even something with a little more pizzazz. The stakes are high—okay, maybe not life-or-death high, but certainly dinner-party reputation high.

Inside every baker is a rolling pin-wielding superhero, ready to leap tall kitchen counters in a single bound. However, even superheroes need a little inspiration from time to time. Pies are the secret sauce to our baking identity, defining our holidays, special occasions, and spontaneous Sunday suppers.

So, let's talk pie, shall we? Fruity, creamy, nutty or chocolaty, pies are the canvas for our culinary creativity. Whether we're targeting that gooey slice of pecan perfection or aiming for the tart zing of a lemon meringue, the perfect pie can be a slice of heaven. Roll up your sleeves, and let's dive into a world where flaky crusts and flavorful fillings reign supreme. If you're itching to don your apron but your pie playbook feels a few recipes short, fear not—by the end of our brainstorming session you'll be the Picasso of the pie world.

Picking Your Pie Type

We know you came here hungry for ideas and not for fluff, so let's slice straight into the delectable world of pies. Whether you're a pastry chef in the making or just looking to conquer the kitchen for a night, we have the lowdown on how to pick the pie that'll earn you the title of "Pie Whisperer."

Tradition with a Twist

So, you're thinking about going classic with an apple pie or a pumpkin pie, but why not jazz it up? Imagine biting into a cherry pie with a hint of chipotle or an apple pie topped with a crumble of sharp cheddar. You're not just making a pie; you're creating a culinary plot twist!

• Classic Twists:
  • Apple pie: Add cheddar or caramel
  • Pumpkin pie: Incorporate a swirl of maple syrup
  • Pecan pie: Throw in some bourbon

Cream of the Crop

If fruit and nuts aren't your cup of tea, let's talk about cream pies—that's where the party's at. From the silky seduction of a chocolate cream pie to the tropical tease of a coconut cream pie, your spoon will be begging for more. And if you can't handle the oven heat, go for a no-bake pie like the beloved banana cream or the always stunning peanut butter pie.

• Creamy Favorites:
  • Banana Cream Pie: Layers of banana and custard
  • Chocolate Cream Pie: Rich chocolate nestled in a crumbly crust
  • Coconut Cream Pie: A tropical escape with every bite

Crust, Toppings, and Secrets to Success

Before we dive into our pie-tastic adventure, remember: a pie is only as good as its crust and toppings. Now, let's set sail on the sweet seas of pie perfection with some crust building, topping choosing, and secret wielding!

Building the Perfect Crust

Putting together the perfect crust is like finding the other half of your soul – it's essential. We're talking about that buttery, flaky crust that shatters into a million delicious pieces with each bite. For an old-fashioned apple pie, you need a trustworthy pie dough that's both sturdy and tender. Here's a foolproof mantra: keep everything cold. The butter should be chilled, the water icy, and your touch as light as a feather.

• Ingredients:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 6 to 8 tbsp ice water

• Instructions:

  • Mix flour, salt, and sugar.
  • Cut in the butter until pea-sized.
  • Sprinkle in water, 1 tbsp at a time.
  • Wrap and chill before rolling out.

Toppings That Talk

Let's chat toppings because that's where the fun really starts – they're like the pie's snazzy hat. A sweet pie might welcome a crown of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel, while chocolate pies could get drenched in rich ganache. For pie recipes to reach their apex of awesomeness, don't be shy with a sprinkle of brown sugar or a swirly, twirly peanut butter topping. These are toppings that don't just sit there; they announce their presence!

• Popular Toppings to Consider:
  • Whipped Cream
  • Caramel Sauce
  • Chocolate Shavings
  • Peanut Butter Drizzle
  • A dusting of powdered sugar

Pro Tips and Tricks

Folks, here are the golden nuggets of wisdom for that "bake-off champ" status. First off, find the best pie recipe, the one that sings to your taste buds and starts a conversation. But make it easy pie recipes, because we're not trying to recreate the Sistine Chapel here. When baking, shield your crust's edges with foil to prevent over-browning. Remember to let that masterpiece cool before slicing; you wouldn't rush a genius, would you? And here's a cheeky serving suggestion: pretend you slaved for hours, even if it was a breeze.

• Checklist for Success:
  • Recipe Selection: Choose flavors that excite you.
  • Execution: Prevent a burnt crust and let pies cool.
  • Serving Suggestions: Be theatrical when presenting your work of art.

Remember, every slice of pie is a love story, and with these steps, ours is going to be an epic one. Happy baking, fellow pie whisperers!