What makes a perfect pie crust? Often, it’s not just the recipe, but the trusty pie dish that helps it bake to golden-brown perfection. But when you’re faced with a wall of shiny metal, colorful ceramic, and mysterious glass pie dishes, how do you know which one will be your kitchen MVP?
Choosing the right pie dish can feel like a baking mystery all on its own. Will it cook evenly? Will your beautiful crust stick? Will it even fit in your oven? These are the common worries that can make even the most seasoned baker pause. We’ve all been there, staring at a pie dish and wondering if it’s the right tool for the job.
Fear not, fellow pie lovers! In this post, we’re diving deep into the world of pie dishes, specifically focusing on the highly-regarded options from America’s Test Kitchen. We’ll explore what makes them stand out, what features to look for, and help you find the dish that will turn your pie-making dreams into delicious reality. Get ready to discover the secrets to a flawless pie!
Our Top 5 Pie Dish America’S Test Kitchen Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Pie Dish America’S Test Kitchen Detailed Reviews
1. The Perfect Pie: Your Ultimate Guide to Classic and Modern Pies
Rating: 8.5/10
Get ready to bake your way to perfection with “The Perfect Pie: Your Ultimate Guide to Classic and Modern Pies, Tarts, Galettes, and More”! This cookbook is a treasure trove for anyone who loves to bake, from beginners to seasoned pros. It covers all the sweet and savory delights you can imagine, making sure every crust is flaky and every filling is delicious. You’ll find recipes for everything from comforting apple pies to elegant fruit tarts and rustic, free-form galettes. It’s a comprehensive guide that truly lives up to its name.
What We Like:
- Beautifully photographed recipes that make you want to bake immediately.
- Clear, step-by-step instructions that are easy to follow.
- A wide variety of recipes, including both classic favorites and exciting new creations.
- Helpful tips and tricks for achieving perfect pie crusts and fillings every time.
- Includes sections on different types of pastries, from puff pastry to shortcrust.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some advanced techniques might require additional research for absolute beginners.
- While diverse, a few more gluten-free or vegan options could be a bonus.
This cookbook is an excellent resource for anyone looking to master the art of pie baking. You’ll be creating stunning and delicious pies that will impress everyone.
2. Naturally Sweet: Bake All Your Favorites with 30% to 50% Less Sugar (America’s Test Kitchen)
Rating: 9.4/10
Craving your favorite baked goods but want to cut back on sugar? America’s Test Kitchen has you covered with “Naturally Sweet: Bake All Your Favorites with 30% to 50% Less Sugar.” This cookbook is your secret weapon for creating delicious treats with a healthier twist. You’ll discover how to reduce sugar without sacrificing flavor, making your baking more enjoyable and guilt-free.
What We Like:
- It offers a wide variety of recipes, from cookies and cakes to muffins and pies.
- The recipes are tested and proven to work, so you can trust the results.
- It teaches you smart ways to use natural sweeteners and flavor enhancers.
- You can significantly lower the sugar content in your baking.
- The instructions are clear and easy to follow, even for beginner bakers.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some recipes might require special ingredients that aren’t readily available in all stores.
- A few recipes might still have a moderate amount of sugar, depending on your personal definition of “less sugar.”
This cookbook is an excellent resource for anyone looking to enjoy homemade desserts with less sugar. It empowers you to bake smarter and healthier.
3. Baking for Two: 200+ Small-Batch Recipes
Rating: 8.8/10
Craving a delicious treat but don’t want a whole cake or a dozen cookies left over? “Baking for Two: 200+ Small-Batch Recipes, from Lazy Bakes to Layer Cakes” is your answer! This cookbook is packed with amazing recipes scaled down perfectly for just one or two people. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, you’ll find something to love, from quick and easy “lazy bakes” that require minimal effort to impressive “layer cakes” that are sure to wow. It’s designed for anyone who enjoys baking without the waste of large batches, making it ideal for busy households or those who just want a single serving of sweetness.
What We Like:
- Offers over 200 recipes, giving you tons of variety.
- Focuses on small-batch baking, perfect for reducing food waste.
- Includes a wide range of recipes, from simple to more complex.
- Great for couples or individuals who love to bake.
- Features clear instructions that are easy to follow.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some recipes might require specialty ingredients not found in every pantry.
- The sheer number of recipes could feel a little overwhelming at first.
This cookbook truly shines for anyone looking to enjoy homemade baked goods in smaller, manageable portions. It’s a fantastic addition to any kitchen, encouraging more frequent baking with less commitment.
4. The Savory Baker: 150 Creative Recipes
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready to bake up a storm with “The Savory Baker: 150 Creative Recipes, from Classic to Modern”! This cookbook is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s packed with amazing ideas for all kinds of baked goods. Whether you love old favorites or want to try something new, this book has something for everyone. You’ll find recipes for breads, cakes, cookies, pies, and so much more. It’s perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike.
What We Like:
- A huge variety of recipes, covering both classic and trendy baked treats.
- The instructions are easy to follow, making baking less intimidating.
- It inspires creativity, encouraging you to try new flavor combinations and techniques.
- The recipes are well-organized, so you can find what you’re looking for quickly.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some recipes might require special ingredients that aren’t always easy to find.
- A few more pictures of the finished baked goods would be a nice addition.
This cookbook is a fantastic resource for anyone who loves to bake. It truly delivers on its promise of creative and delicious recipes.
5. Desserts Illustrated: The Ultimate Guide to All Things Sweet 600+ Recipes (Cook’s Illustrated)
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready to bake your way to happiness with Desserts Illustrated: The Ultimate Guide to All Things Sweet! This massive cookbook from Cook’s Illustrated is packed with over 600 recipes, covering every sweet treat you can imagine. From classic cookies and cakes to fancy pastries and frozen delights, it’s a treasure trove for anyone who loves dessert.
What We Like:
- Incredible variety: You’ll find recipes for cookies, cakes, pies, brownies, custards, frozen desserts, and so much more.
- Cook’s Illustrated quality: You can trust these recipes to work. They’ve tested everything thoroughly to ensure delicious results.
- Clear instructions: The recipes are easy to follow, even for beginners.
- Beautiful photos: Every recipe has a tempting picture to inspire you.
- Something for everyone: Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, there are recipes here for you.
What Could Be Improved:
- Size: It’s a very thick book, so it takes up a good amount of space on your shelf.
- Beginner focus: While great for all levels, some of the more complex recipes might still be a challenge for absolute beginners without extra guidance.
Desserts Illustrated is a must-have for any dessert lover’s kitchen. It’s the perfect companion for creating delicious treats for any occasion.
Your Guide to the Perfect Pie Dish: America’s Test Kitchen Approved!
Making a delicious pie is a joy. A good pie dish helps you achieve that perfect crust and filling. America’s Test Kitchen is known for testing kitchen tools thoroughly. They help us find the best ones. Let’s explore what makes a great pie dish.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re picking out a pie dish, keep these things in mind:
- Size and Depth: Most standard pie dishes are 9 inches wide. This is good for most recipes. Deeper dishes are great for pies with lots of filling, like fruit pies. Shallower dishes work well for tarts or custard pies.
- Even Heating: The best pie dishes heat food evenly. This means your crust will bake to a golden brown all around. No more pale spots!
- Easy to Clean: Nobody likes scrubbing baked-on bits. Look for dishes that are easy to wash.
- Durability: A good pie dish will last for many years. You want something that won’t easily chip or crack.
- Non-Stick vs. Traditional: Some dishes have a non-stick coating. Others are plain ceramic or glass. Both can work well, but they have different pros and cons.
Important Materials
The material of your pie dish matters a lot. Here are the most common ones:
- Ceramic/Stoneware: This is a popular choice. Ceramic dishes often have beautiful designs. They heat evenly and hold heat well. This helps create a crisp crust. They are usually oven-safe.
- Glass: Glass pie dishes let you see how your crust is browning. They also heat evenly. Glass is non-reactive, meaning it won’t change the taste of your pie. It’s easy to clean too.
- Metal (Aluminum, Steel): Metal pie dishes heat up quickly. They can help create a very crisp crust. However, they might not heat as evenly as ceramic or glass. Some metal dishes might need a bit of greasing to prevent sticking.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a pie dish great or not so great?
- Thick Walls: Dishes with thicker walls tend to heat more evenly. This is a big plus for baking. Thin walls can lead to hot spots.
- Weight: A heavier dish often means it’s made of better quality material. It feels more sturdy.
- Rim Design: Some dishes have a fluted or decorative rim. This can make your pie look fancy. It also gives you something to hold onto when taking the pie out of the oven. A smooth, wide rim is also good for crimping the crust.
- Glazed vs. Unglazed: Most ceramic dishes are glazed. This makes them non-porous and easy to clean. Unglazed dishes can absorb moisture and stains.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do people use these pie dishes?
- Everyday Baking: For many home bakers, a trusty ceramic or glass pie dish is perfect for weeknight pies. They are easy to use and clean.
- Holiday Feasts: For special occasions, a beautiful ceramic dish can go right from the oven to the table. It adds a nice touch to your display.
- Deep-Dish Pies: If you love pies with lots of fruit or a thick custard, a deeper dish is a must.
- Tart Making: Smaller, shallower dishes are ideal for making tarts.
Choosing the right pie dish can make a big difference in your baking success. Think about what kind of pies you like to make and pick a dish that fits your needs!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best material for a pie dish?
A: Ceramic and glass are often recommended for their even heating and durability. Metal can also create a crisp crust.
Q: Should I get a deep or shallow pie dish?
A: Deep dishes are good for pies with lots of filling. Shallow dishes are better for tarts or thinner pies.
Q: How do I clean my pie dish?
A: Most pie dishes can be washed with soap and water. Some are dishwasher safe, but it’s always good to check the care instructions.
Q: Do I need a special pie dish for America’s Test Kitchen recipes?
A: Not necessarily. America’s Test Kitchen tests many types of pie dishes, and their recommendations are usually based on good performance, not a specific brand.
Q: Can I use a metal pie dish if my recipe calls for glass?
A: You can, but baking times might change slightly. Metal heats faster, so keep an eye on your pie.
Q: What does “even heating” mean for a pie dish?
A: It means the dish heats up the same way all over, so your pie crust bakes to a nice golden brown everywhere.
Q: Are decorative pie dishes as good as plain ones?
A: Often, yes! Many decorative dishes perform just as well. The important thing is the material and how it heats.
Q: How do I prevent my pie crust from sticking?
A: Greasing the dish with butter or oil before adding the crust usually helps. Some non-stick dishes make this less necessary.
Q: Can I put my pie dish in the freezer?
A: Most ceramic and glass pie dishes are freezer-safe. However, it’s always best to check the product’s specific instructions.
Q: What size pie dish is most common?
A: The most common size is 9 inches in diameter. This works for most standard pie recipes.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!