Best Thanksgiving Pies: 7 Irresistible Recipes to Savor

Name: Best Thanksgiving Pies: 7 Irresistible Recipes to Savor
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 3-4 tablespoons cold water; 4 cups pumpkin puree; 1 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon cloves; 4 eggs; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups apple slices; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon

octobre 19, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when families gather around the table, sharing laughter, stories, and, of course, delicious food. For me, the highlight of the feast has always been the pies. I mean, what’s a Thanksgiving dinner without a slice of something sweet to top it off? The *best Thanksgiving pies* are not just desserts; they’re a part of our family tradition. I remember my grandma and I spending hours in the kitchen, her hands expertly rolling out the dough while I tried not to sneak too many spoonfuls of the pumpkin filling when she wasn’t looking. Those moments are the heart of the holiday! Each pie tells a story, whether it’s the classic pumpkin with its warm spices or the comforting apple pie that fills the house with a heavenly aroma. Trust me, these pies are a must-have for your celebration. They’ll not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also create memories that will last a lifetime.

Ingredients for the Best Thanksgiving Pies

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty! To make these delicious pies, you’ll need some simple ingredients that come together to create that comforting, homey flavor we all adore during the holidays. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups all-purpose flour: This is the base for our flaky pie crust. Make sure to measure it properly for the best results.
1 cup unsalted butter, chilled: Chilled butter is key to a tender crust. Trust me, don’t skip this step—your crust will thank you later!
1/2 cup sugar: Just a touch of sweetness to balance everything out.
1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors in your pie.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: This adds a bit of brightness to the crust. It’s a secret weapon for flavor!
3-4 tablespoons cold water: You might need a bit more or less, depending on the humidity, so add it gradually until the dough holds together.
4 cups pumpkin puree: You can use canned, but I love using fresh pumpkin for that homemade taste—it’s totally worth the effort!
1 cup brown sugar: This gives the pumpkin pie its lovely caramel flavor.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: Because what’s pumpkin pie without cinnamon? It’s a must!
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: Adds that warm, cozy flavor we all crave during the holidays.
1/4 teaspoon cloves: Just a hint of clove for depth in flavor.
4 eggs: These help set the filling perfectly.
1 cup heavy cream: For that rich, creamy texture that makes the pumpkin pie so indulgent.
2 cups apple slices: Freshly sliced apples are best! Pick your favorite variety for sweetness and tartness.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: For sweetening the apple pie filling; feel free to adjust based on your apple’s natural sweetness.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: This helps keep the apples bright and adds a zing!
1 teaspoon cinnamon: Again, can’t have apple pie without a touch of cinnamon!

And there you have it! With these ingredients, you’re all set to create the *best Thanksgiving pies* that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Remember, fresh is best, so if you can, opt for fresh pumpkin and apples. Let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare the Best Thanksgiving Pies

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to dive into the fun part—making those *best Thanksgiving pies*! I promise, it’s easier than you think, and I’ll walk you through each step. Ready? Let’s get baking!

Preparing the Pie Crust

First things first, let’s whip up that pie crust! In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. It’s super important to mix these dry ingredients well; this will help your crust be flavorful and flaky. Next, take your chilled butter and cut it into small cubes. We want to mix it into the flour mixture until it’s nice and crumbly—think of coarse sand! You can use a pastry cutter or your fingertips, but don’t overdo it. The goal is to have little bits of butter still visible; that’s what gives us that flaky texture!

Now, stir in the lemon juice and gradually add the cold water, just a tablespoon at a time, until the dough starts to come together. If it feels too dry, add a splash more water, but be careful not to make it too sticky. Once it’s ready, form it into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial; it relaxes the gluten, making the dough easier to roll out later. Trust me, don’t skip this part!

Making the Pumpkin Pie Filling

While your crust is chilling, let’s make that luscious pumpkin filling! In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, eggs, and heavy cream. If you’re using fresh pumpkin, make sure it’s roasted and pureed until smooth. The flavor is just out of this world! Blend everything together until it’s well combined and smooth—this filling should be rich and aromatic, filling your kitchen with that cozy holiday scent!

Once mixed, set this aside for a moment while we tackle the apple pie filling.

Making the Apple Pie Filling

For the apple pie filling, slice your apples thinly and toss them in a large mixing bowl with granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon. I love using a mix of sweet and tart apples to get that perfect balance in flavor. The lemon juice not only brightens the apples but also helps prevent them from browning too much while you work. Give everything a gentle mix until the apples are evenly coated. This is going to be a deliciously fragrant filling!

Assembling and Baking the Pies

Alright, let’s bring it all together! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out your chilled pie dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Carefully fit the dough into your pie pans, trimming any excess hanging over the edges. Now, pour the pumpkin filling into one crust, spreading it evenly. For the apple pie, scoop the apple mixture into the second crust, making sure to distribute the apples evenly.

Now, here’s the fun part: If you have extra dough, feel free to make a lattice top for the apple pie or simply cover it with another crust and cut some slits for ventilation. Once assembled, bake both pies in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 30-40 minutes, until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.

Don’t forget to let those pies cool completely before slicing into them. This helps the fillings set up perfectly! Your patience will be rewarded, I promise.

Tips for Success with the Best Thanksgiving Pies

Now that you’ve got your pies in the oven, let’s talk about some pro tips to ensure you achieve pie perfection! Trust me, these little tricks can make all the difference between a good pie and a *great* pie. I want you to wow your friends and family this Thanksgiving!

Chill, Chill, Chill: Remember that chilling your dough is crucial. It keeps the butter solid, which results in that flaky texture we all love. Don’t rush this step; your crust will be so much better for it!
Blind Baking: If you’re worried about a soggy bottom, consider blind baking your crust for the pumpkin pie! Just line it with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans, then bake for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. This helps set the crust and keeps it crispy!
Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh pumpkin and apples makes a world of difference in flavor. If you can, roast your own pumpkin—it’s really not that hard and the taste is so much better!
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your pies as they bake. Ovens can be unpredictable, so start checking for doneness a few minutes early. The pumpkin pie should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center, while the apple pie should be bubbling and golden.
Let Them Cool: I know it’s tempting to dive in right away, but letting your pies cool completely helps the filling firm up. This is especially important for the pumpkin pie, so you can slice it beautifully!
Serving Suggestions: Serve your pies with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that extra indulgence. Trust me, it takes the experience to a whole new level!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re ready to impress everyone with your baking skills. The *best Thanksgiving pies* are just around the corner, and I can’t wait for you to taste the magic!

Variations on the Best Thanksgiving Pies

Alright, let’s have some fun with these pies! While the classic pumpkin and apple pies are absolutely divine, there’s a whole world of flavors you can explore to make your Thanksgiving spread even more exciting. Here are some of my favorite variations that are sure to impress your guests:

Sweet Potato Pie: Swap out the pumpkin for sweet potato puree! It adds a lovely sweetness and a slightly different texture. Just follow the same filling recipe and you’re golden!
Pecan Pie: For a nutty twist, try making a pecan pie as your second pie. Just mix together corn syrup, eggs, sugar, and chopped pecans for an indulgent treat that’ll have everyone raving.
Mixed Berry Pie: If you want to change things up, consider a mixed berry pie using fresh or frozen berries. Just toss them with sugar, cornstarch, and a squeeze of lemon juice before pouring them into your crust. It’s bursting with flavor!
Spiced Apple Pie: Give your apple pie a little kick by adding in some ground ginger or cardamom along with the cinnamon. It’ll elevate the flavor and add a unique twist.
Cinnamon Roll Pie Crust: For a fun and sweet take, use cinnamon roll dough as your pie crust! Just press it into the pie pan and fill it with your favorite filling for a delicious surprise.
Chocolate Pumpkin Pie: If you’re a chocolate lover, mix some melted chocolate into the pumpkin filling. It adds a rich depth that’s totally irresistible!
Nut-Free Options: If you need a nut-free version of any pie, just be sure to check your crust and filling for any nut-based ingredients. You can easily use oat or graham cracker crusts instead!

Feel free to get creative and mix and match these ideas. The *best Thanksgiving pies* are all about your personal touch, so don’t hesitate to experiment! Your family will love the new flavors, and who knows, you might just start a new tradition!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve created these *best Thanksgiving pies*, let’s talk about how to serve them up for maximum delight! Honestly, the right accompaniments can take your pies from delicious to downright unforgettable. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions that pair perfectly with those sweet, warm slices:

Whipped Cream: A classic for a reason! I love to whip up some fresh cream with a touch of vanilla and a sprinkle of sugar. Nothing beats that light, airy topping on a slice of pumpkin or apple pie!
Vanilla Ice Cream: If you want to take it up a notch, serve your pies with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The cold, melty ice cream against the warm pie is pure heaven!
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some caramel sauce over your pie for a decadent touch. It adds a sweet contrast that enhances the flavors of both pumpkin and apple pies.
Nutmeg Dusting: A simple dusting of freshly grated nutmeg or cinnamon on top of the whipped cream can elevate the presentation and flavor. It’s a little detail that goes a long way!
Spiced Hot Cider: For a warm drink pairing, serve your pies with a cup of spiced hot apple cider. The cozy spices will complement the flavors of the pies beautifully.
Fresh Fruit: A side of fresh fruit—like sliced apples or berries—can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pies. Plus, it’s a great way to add a pop of color to your dessert table!
Cheese Plate: If you want something a bit different, consider a small cheese plate alongside your pies. A sharp cheddar or creamy brie can create a delightful contrast with the sweet flavors.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a beautiful, inviting dessert table that everyone will love. Trust me, the combination of flavors and textures will make your Thanksgiving feast truly memorable!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Now, I know you’re probably curious about the nutritional side of these *best Thanksgiving pies*. But here’s the thing—nutrition can vary quite a bit depending on the specific ingredients you use and how generous you are with those slices! So, while I can’t provide exact values, I can share some typical estimates to give you an idea:

Calories: About 300 calories per slice, depending on the filling and crust.
Fats: Expect around 15g of fat, with some of that being saturated fat from the butter and cream.
Sugars: You’ll find roughly 25g of sugar per slice, coming from both the pie fillings and the crust.
Carbohydrates: Each slice contains about 40g of carbohydrates, thanks to the flour and sugars.
Fiber: You can expect about 2g of fiber, especially if you use whole fruit for your fillings.
Protein: Each slice has around 3g of protein, mostly from the eggs and cream.

Remember, if you swap ingredients—like using a different type of sugar or opting for a lighter crust—the nutritional values will change as well. So, if you’re counting calories or watching your sugar intake, keep that in mind while you enjoy these delightful pies. But hey, it’s Thanksgiving! Enjoy every delicious bite and the memories that come with them!

FAQ About the Best Thanksgiving Pies

Got questions about making the *best Thanksgiving pies*? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common inquiries I hear from fellow pie enthusiasts. Let’s dive in!

Can I make these pies ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making pies ahead of time can actually save you stress on Thanksgiving day. You can prepare the pie crust and filling in advance. Just make sure to store the crust wrapped tightly in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the pumpkin and apple filling, you can make that a day or two ahead as well. Just keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. On the day of, simply assemble the pies and bake them fresh! If you want, you can even bake the pies a day ahead, let them cool completely, and then store them in the fridge. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for a bit before serving, so they’re not too cold!

What are some good substitutions for ingredients?

Great question! There are plenty of ways to customize your pies based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences. For the pie crust, you can use store-bought crusts if you’re short on time—just be sure to check for a good quality brand. If you want a gluten-free option, there are also gluten-free pie crust mixes available. As for sweeteners, you can swap granulated sugar with coconut sugar or even maple syrup, but keep in mind that this might change the texture slightly. And if you prefer a lighter filling, you can use evaporated milk instead of heavy cream in the pumpkin pie. Just have fun experimenting!

How do I store leftover pies?

To keep your pies fresh and delicious, it’s all about proper storage! If you have leftover pie, let it cool completely before covering it. For short-term storage, simply cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the fridge. It should stay good for about 3-4 days. If you want to store your pies for a longer period, you can freeze them! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let the pie thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm it up in the oven for that fresh-baked taste!

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Sur moi

Bonjour, je m'appelle Julia, je suis le cœur de Vihaad Recettes et une passionnée de bonne cuisine. Mon amour pour la cuisine a commencé dans mon enfance, inspirée par les délicieux repas de ma grand-mère. Aujourd'hui, je partage des recettes savoureuses qui rassemblent les gens à travers le plaisir de manger ensemble.