Start with the most popular pie recipes by Chef Lindsey! Every single recipe has been tested and perfected by a pastry chef! Whether you are looking for the perfect, sliceable blueberry pie or a creamy pumpkin pie, there is something for you!

blind baked pie crust on white background.
My Top Pie Baking Tips
Everything you need to know about pies from a professional pastry chef!

Professional Tips for Perfect Pies & Tart

  • Choose the right crust for your pie or tart. You can’t go wrong with a traditional flaky all-butter pie crust or tender crisco pie crust. They can be used in both savory and sweet pies, and can balance a sweeter pie filling like pecan pie. For more shortbread like texture or for a sweet tart choose a sweet tart crust.
  • Work quickly and keep every thing cold. Work quickly and efficiently and be sure to chill the pie crust at each step. This will keep the crust flaky and tender.
  • Avoid soggy bottomed pies! If you have a liquid filling and want to ensure a flaky crust, partially or blind bake the crust.
  • Be sure to bake the pie long enough. One of the most common errors in pie and tart baking is under-baking them. This will lead to loose fillings and raw pie or tart bottoms.
  • Pre-bake fruit pie fillings. I know this is an extra step but it is the only way to ensure a perfectly baked, thick filling AND a crispy, flaky crust.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Pies & Tarts?

A tart is a pastry shell that has been filled with a savory or sweet filling, and they are typically served unmolded, while a pie is a pastry shell baked with either a sweet or savory filling that is typically served in the dish in which it is baked. Pies can be either double crust or single crust while tarts are typically uncovered.

How do I keep my Pie crust from burning?

If your crust is getting too dark, simply cover it with foil torn into strips. I use 3 strips about 2 inches wide and crimp it around the edges when they reach a light golden brown. They will continue to brown under the foil or pie-shields, so just add it a little earlier than you might think. This can also happen because the dough was rolled too thin or the oven temperature was too high.

How do you know when custard Pies are baked?

Custard pies are baked when the filling moves in one cohesive mass when jiggled gently. You can press gently on the center of a pecan pie and it should feel like jello.

All Pies and Tart Recipes