Thanksgiving is just a few days away and is the perfect opportunity for those of you who aspire to be a pastry queen.  Pie, the traditional dessert for Thanksgiving, is probably the easiest pastry you can make.

For pie purists, the crust is a key element, so whatever you do, don’t start with a frozen pie crust.  If you don’t want to hunt for a rolling pin, use what other pastry chefs use in a pinch. The refrigerated Pillsbury all-ready pie crust is about as close as you can get to homemade with a store bought crust.

Here are some of my favorite pie and tart recipes – most have been served in our family for years.  Try these out and you’re sure to move one step closer to being the pastry queen in your circle of family and friends.

Chocolate Bliss Pecan Tart
Recipe
Very decadent with its chocolate and pecans. For the best presentation, use a fluted spring-form pie tart and serve with whipped cream.

Apple-Cranberry Crumb Pie
Recipe
Put thinly cut apple slices in a large bowl and toss with the cranberry sauce to keep from browning as you cut the rest of the apples.  When cooking, test to see if the apples are cooked enough by testing with a sharp knife or tooth pick – should be very tender.  Serve with vanilla ice cream.

Traditional Pumpkin Pie (circa 1950)
Recipe
Grab any Libby’s can of pumpkin and you have the recipe.  This recipe has been on cans for over 50 years, so its likely the same recipe your mom and grandma used in past Thanksgivings. Add a fluted pie crust edge (how to) and you’re all set.  Once cooled, serve with whipped cream or cool whip.