Homemade Pies Are Easier Than You May Think

Many people are of the mistaken opinion that it is difficult to bake a homemade pie. However, you really don’t have to be an experienced cook to produce a tasty dessert. Actually, the most difficult part of the whole process is making the pie crust. If you don’t want the headaches of making and rolling out the dough, you can purchase a frozen pie crust that will taste every bit as good as one made from scratch.

Your choices are fairly straightforward. You can do a cream pie or one that is filled with fruit. A word to the wise — meringue pies tend to be more difficult, so you may want to stick to the basics. Blueberry, cherry, or apple fillings all come in a can, ready to use. Once you’ve added the necessary spices, it’s really tough to distinguish them from a homemade creation.
Pumpkin pies are also easy to make. The following recipe can be found at www.verybestbaking.com/recipes/specialty/libbys-detail-fpp.aspx.

First, place an uncooked pie shell in a baking dish. A glass container is recommended for easy visibility. Next, open your can of filling and set it aside.

Then, mix together 3/4 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves, and add your canned pumpkin to it. Beat two large eggs in another bowl, and combine with the sugar/spice mixture.

Gradually, pour in one can of evaporated milk and stir thoroughly. Place this mixture in your unbaked pie shell and bake for 15 minutes in a 425 degree preheated oven. Reduce the oven temperature to 350 degrees and continue baking for another 40-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool your pie for several hours and serve with either ice cream or whipped cream. Voila, you’ve just made your guests an inspiringly delicious dessert with precious little effort!