Pies

Pie is a baked dish that consists of a pastry crust filled with a savory or sweet filling. Most pies use a bottom crust, and many also have a top crust or lattice cover, though there are single-crust varieties and open-faced tarts. Crusts are typically made from flour, fat, and water, and can be flaky, tender, or crumbly depending on the method and ingredients. Fillings range widely, from fruit, custard, and cream to meat, vegetables, and sauces.

Historically, pies have ancient origins in civilizations that used pastry to encase meat or fruit for preservation. By medieval Europe, pies had become common in both savory and sweet forms. The modern pie tradition developed in English-speaking countries, where fruit pies became a staple in the United States and meat pies a common meal in the United Kingdom, Australia, and parts of Canada. Regional varieties include fruit pies such as apple, cherry, and blueberry; custard pies such as pumpkin and lemon; and savory pies such as pot pies and meat pies. Quiche is a related savory custard tart often categorized differently from traditional fruit pies.

Pies are typically baked until the crust is golden and the filling set. They are served warm or at room temperature and can be topped or served with ice cream, whipped cream, or cream.

Storage guidelines vary by filling; custard and cream pies should be refrigerated, while fruit pies keep best at cool room temperature for a short period and can be frozen for longer storage.