How To Make Better (And Prettier) Pies

Tart Benefits

Tarts offer a simpler alternative to pies, making them an excellent choice for novice bakers. Lauren Ko explains that tarts are less time-intensive and require less technical skill than pies, particularly in dough handling. She shares that tart pastry can be made in a food processor, providing more leeway in mixing compared to the delicate nature of pie dough 1.

A tart is a great place to start. It's not as time intensive or as technical as maybe a full blown pie.

--- Lauren Ko

Additionally, tarts allow for creative crust options, such as using speckless cookies or toasted coconut and pecans, offering flexibility in ingredients 1.

   

Holiday Fillings

For holiday gatherings, tarts can be a delightful alternative to traditional pies, with Lauren Ko suggesting festive fillings like cranberry curd and pear with cardamom. She highlights a cranberry curd tart that contrasts with heavier desserts, bringing vibrant colors and flavors to the table 1.

There's a cranberry curd tart in my book, and that is actually the tart that I redeemed myself with the following thanksgiving to rave reviews.

--- Lauren Ko

Ko also recommends a pear tart with a shortbread crust, which is simple to make yet visually impressive, making it a showstopper without excessive effort 1.