Table of Contents
Thanksgiving is all about family, friends, and gratitude – and what better way to wrap up a feast than with a show-stopping pie? Pies bring warmth, nostalgia, and an undeniable joy to the table, offering endless variety in flavor and texture. From creamy and custardy to fruity and nutty, each pie tells a story and brings people together.
For years, I appreciated pie but never found myself inspired to bake it. Yet when asked to create six new pie recipes to celebrate Thanksgiving, I decided it was time to fall in love with pie-making. I wanted these recipes to feel both modern and cozy, chic enough to impress but simple enough for bakers of all skill levels. Over the course of baking five dozen pies, I discovered just how soothing and tactile pie-making can be, and how wonderful it is to share these treats with others.
Here are six pies that will bring something unforgettable to your Thanksgiving spread.
1. Cranberry Citrus Meringue Pie
Imagine the zingy freshness of lemon meringue pie, now with an autumnal twist. This Cranberry Citrus Meringue Pie features a bright citrus curd topped with cranberry Swiss meringue, creating a vibrant pink swirl. The meringue is a bit of a project – it’s whisked over simmering water before cooling into a luxurious, marshmallow-like consistency. But the end result is a pie that holds its shape for days and has a perfect balance of tangy and sweet. If you’re feeling adventurous, swap the lemon and orange for blood orange or grapefruit to create your own custom citrus blend.
2. Sesame-Swirled Pumpkin Pie
Give your traditional pumpkin pie a delightful upgrade with this Sesame-Swirled Pumpkin Pie. Here, toasted sesame oil and tahini are mixed into the pumpkin custard, adding layers of nutty savoriness and a striking marbled pattern on top. The pie cools gently in the oven to prevent cracking, though the tahini swirl might naturally split along the lines – an effect that only enhances its beauty. This pie is comforting, yet different enough to stand out, making it the perfect twist on a Thanksgiving classic.
3. Butterscotch Banana Cream Pie
This pie is an elevated take on banana pudding, combining the rich flavors of salted butterscotch with fresh bananas in a flaky crust made of pistachio and vanilla wafer crumbs. A splash of rum adds complexity (feel free to omit for a non-alcoholic version). Top it off with a dollop of crème fraîche, and you’ve got a pie that’s creamy, satisfying, and sophisticated enough to make you rethink traditional banana cream pie.
4. Coconut Caramel Tart
Fans of Girl Scout cookies will love this Coconut Caramel Tart. A crisp chocolate shortbread crust holds a creamy, nutty frangipane filling, while the caramel topping is sprinkled with coconut and finished with drizzled chocolate. Making caramel can be intimidating, but this “wet” caramel method – which begins by dissolving sugar in water – makes the process foolproof. Just keep an eye on the color; once it reaches an amber hue, add the cream and enjoy the richness it brings to each bite.
5. Coffee and Maple Chess Pie
Inspired by the comforting flavors of maple syrup and coffee, this Coffee and Maple Chess Pie is a great pick for any time of day. The custard filling, with a hint of bourbon (or vanilla if you prefer), is topped with a slightly sweet espresso-infused whipped cream. For an extra-special touch, garnish with candied orange peels. This pie’s warm and rich flavor profile will remind you of a leisurely breakfast with pancakes and coffee, but it’s also a dessert that holds its own among Thanksgiving classics.
6. Pomegranate Cardamom Apple Pie
For apple pie lovers, this Pomegranate Cardamom Apple Pie is a dream come true. Tart and sweet apples are precooked in a jewel-toned pomegranate reduction to ensure even baking. Adding a hint of cardamom gives it a fragrant twist, while the lattice-topped crust bakes perfectly on the bottom rack, allowing the bottom to crisp up nicely. Although you’ll be tempted to slice into it right out of the oven, let it cool for at least four hours to make sure it holds its shape when cut.
Bring the Dessert, Bring the Joy
This Thanksgiving, surprise your guests with one (or all) of these extraordinary pies. Whether you’re drawn to the nutty swirl of tahini in a pumpkin pie, the decadent butterscotch banana custard, or the playful twist of pomegranate on apple, each recipe is crafted to bring warmth and creativity to your table. Happy Thanksgiving, and happy baking!