Pie, a culinary masterpiece enjoyed for generations, often takes center stage at gatherings, celebrations, and comforting weeknight meals. While the filling commands attention, the pie crust, and more specifically, what graces its top, plays a crucial role in the overall taste, texture, and visual appeal. Many home bakers ask, “What can I put on top of pie crust besides just…more pie crust?” The answer is a delightful exploration of sweet and savory possibilities.
Sweet Sensations: Exploring Sweet Pie Topping Ideas
The world of sweet pie toppings extends far beyond the traditional lattice or solid crust. From crumbly streusels to glossy glazes, the options are limited only by your imagination. Let’s explore some delicious sweet choices.
Classic Crumbles and Streusels
A crumble or streusel topping adds a delightful textural contrast to the smooth, soft filling below. It provides a buttery, crunchy element that perfectly complements fruit pies, custard pies, and even chocolate pies. The key to a good crumble is the ratio of ingredients: flour, butter, and sugar. Experiment with different ratios to find your preferred level of crunch.
- Basic Crumble: The most common type features flour, butter (or shortening), and sugar, often with a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Brown sugar contributes a richer, molasses-like flavor.
- Oat Streusel: Adding rolled oats to the mixture creates a heartier, more rustic topping. It pairs particularly well with apple, berry, and peach pies. Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can also be incorporated for added texture and flavor.
- Nutty Crumble: Ground almonds, pecans, or walnuts can replace some of the flour for a nutty and aromatic topping. Consider toasting the nuts lightly before grinding to enhance their flavor.
Delectable Glazes and Sauces
A glaze or sauce adds a touch of elegance and moisture to your pie. It can be brushed on before baking or drizzled on after, depending on the desired effect.
- Egg Wash: A simple egg wash (egg yolk mixed with a little water or milk) brushed on the crust before baking gives it a beautiful golden-brown color and a subtle sheen. This is a classic and easy way to elevate the appearance of your pie.
- Sugar Glaze: A mixture of powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice creates a simple yet effective glaze. It can be drizzled over the cooled pie for a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
- Caramel Sauce: A homemade or store-bought caramel sauce adds a rich and decadent flavor. Drizzle it over apple pie, pecan pie, or even a chocolate pie for an extra layer of indulgence.
- Chocolate Ganache: For chocolate lovers, a rich and creamy chocolate ganache is the perfect topping. It’s made with chocolate and heavy cream and can be poured over the pie while still warm or chilled for a firmer texture.
Meringue Magic
Meringue is a classic topping for pies like lemon meringue and chocolate meringue. Its light and airy texture contrasts beautifully with the rich filling below.
- French Meringue: Made by whisking egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form. It’s the simplest type of meringue but can be less stable than other varieties.
- Italian Meringue: Made by pouring hot sugar syrup into whipped egg whites. This creates a more stable and glossy meringue that is less likely to weep.
- Swiss Meringue: Egg whites and sugar are heated over a double boiler until the sugar dissolves, then whipped until stiff peaks form. This meringue is also very stable and has a smooth, silky texture.
Whipped Cream Wonders
A dollop of freshly whipped cream is a simple yet elegant topping for almost any pie.
- Plain Whipped Cream: Simply whipping heavy cream with a little sugar creates a light and airy topping.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Adding extracts like vanilla, almond, or peppermint to the whipped cream can enhance its flavor. You can also add a tablespoon or two of liqueur for a more sophisticated touch.
- Stabilized Whipped Cream: Adding a stabilizer like gelatin or cornstarch to the whipped cream helps it hold its shape for longer.
Savory Sensations: Exploring Savory Pie Topping Ideas
While sweet pies dominate the dessert landscape, savory pies offer a comforting and satisfying alternative. The toppings for savory pies can be just as creative and varied as those for sweet pies.
Cheese Please: Cheese Crusts and Toppings
Cheese adds a rich and savory flavor to pie crusts and toppings. It pairs well with vegetables, meats, and even some fruits.
- Cheese Crust: Adding grated cheese like cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyere to the pie crust dough creates a flavorful and savory crust. This works particularly well with quiches and vegetable pies.
- Cheese Sprinkle: Sprinkling grated cheese on top of the pie before baking adds a crispy and flavorful topping. Consider using a hard cheese like Parmesan or Pecorino Romano.
- Cheese Sauce: A creamy cheese sauce can be poured over the cooked pie for a decadent and comforting topping.
Herbaceous Harmony: Herb-Infused Toppings
Fresh herbs add a touch of freshness and aroma to savory pie toppings.
- Herb Crust: Incorporating chopped herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano into the pie crust dough creates a flavorful and aromatic crust.
- Herb Sprinkle: Sprinkling chopped herbs on top of the pie before baking adds a fresh and vibrant touch.
- Herb Butter: Brushing the crust with herb-infused butter before baking adds flavor and richness.
Vegetable Variety: Vegetable-Based Toppings
Vegetables can be used to create interesting and flavorful pie toppings.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasting vegetables like butternut squash, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts and arranging them on top of the pie adds color, flavor, and texture.
- Vegetable Puree: A smooth vegetable puree, such as a butternut squash or sweet potato puree, can be used as a topping for a savory pie.
- Fried Onions: Crispy fried onions add a savory crunch to the top of the pie.
Meat Matters: Meat-Based Toppings
Meat adds protein and richness to savory pie toppings.
- Crumbled Bacon: Crispy crumbled bacon adds a smoky and savory flavor.
- Cooked Sausage: Cooked and crumbled sausage adds a hearty and flavorful element.
- Pulled Pork: Tender and flavorful pulled pork makes a delicious topping for a savory pie.
Beyond the Ordinary: Unique and Unexpected Pie Toppings
Ready to venture beyond the well-trodden path? Here are some unconventional yet surprisingly delicious pie topping ideas:
Nut Butter Swirls
Swirls of peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter add a nutty and decadent touch. Drizzle the nut butter over the pie filling before baking or swirl it into a crumble topping.
Spice It Up: Spicy Sugar
Combine sugar with spices like chili powder, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika for a sweet and spicy topping. Sprinkle it over the crust before baking.
Salty Sweet Sensations
A sprinkle of sea salt or flaky salt on top of a sweet pie enhances the flavors and creates a delightful contrast. This works particularly well with chocolate, caramel, and fruit pies.
Edible Flowers
For a truly stunning presentation, adorn your pie with edible flowers. Choose flowers that complement the flavors of the pie.
Cookie Crumbles
Crushed cookies like Oreo cookies, graham crackers, or shortbread cookies can be used as a crumble topping.
Tips for Perfect Pie Toppings
Achieving the perfect pie topping requires a few key considerations:
- Consider the filling: The topping should complement the flavors and textures of the filling. A rich filling might benefit from a lighter topping, while a simple filling can handle a more elaborate topping.
- Don’t overdo it: Too much topping can overwhelm the pie and make it difficult to bake evenly.
- Adjust baking time: Toppings can affect the baking time of the pie. Keep an eye on the crust and filling to ensure they are both cooked through.
- Protect the crust: If the crust is browning too quickly, use a pie shield or aluminum foil to protect it.
- Let it cool: Allow the pie to cool completely before cutting and serving. This will allow the filling to set and prevent the crust from crumbling.
The Art of Presentation
The way you present your pie is just as important as the taste. A beautifully decorated pie is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
- Lattice Design: A classic lattice crust is a visually appealing and functional way to top a pie.
- Cutouts: Use cookie cutters to create decorative shapes from the pie dough and arrange them on top of the pie.
- Braided Crust: A braided crust adds a touch of elegance and sophistication.
- Dusting: Dust the cooled pie with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for a simple yet elegant finish.
Experimentation is Key
The best way to discover your favorite pie toppings is to experiment! Don’t be afraid to try new combinations and techniques. With a little creativity and practice, you can create pies that are both delicious and visually stunning. Ultimately, the best pie topping is the one you enjoy the most.
What are some alternatives to a traditional pie crust topping?
Alternatives to traditional pie crust toppings abound, offering a wealth of flavors and textures to elevate your baking. Crumble toppings, made with flour, butter, and sugar, are a popular choice, providing a sweet and slightly crunchy contrast to the filling. Streusel toppings, similar to crumbles but often including oats and nuts, add extra depth and chewiness. Beyond these, consider lattice designs using strips of pastry or biscuit dough, or even cookie dough cutouts arranged artfully on top.
For those seeking lighter options, meringue toppings offer a sweet, airy cloud that complements fruit pies beautifully. Whipped cream, whether homemade or store-bought, provides a classic and comforting finish. Furthermore, fresh fruit arrangements, such as sliced berries or thinly sliced apples, can add a visual appeal and a burst of fresh flavor without the heaviness of a traditional crust.
How can I incorporate nuts into my pie topping?
Nuts can add a delightful crunch and richness to pie toppings in numerous ways. Consider adding chopped pecans, walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts to your crumble or streusel recipe. Toasting the nuts beforehand will enhance their flavor and prevent them from becoming soggy during baking. You can also create a nut-based topping by combining ground nuts with butter, sugar, and flour for a denser, more substantial texture.
Another approach is to create a decorative nut crust around the edge of the pie, using whole or halved nuts arranged in a pattern. This adds a visual element and a textural contrast to the smooth filling. Finally, for a truly decadent treat, consider candying nuts and scattering them over a meringue or whipped cream topping for a sweet and crunchy garnish.
What are some savory pie topping ideas?
Savory pies deserve equally creative toppings beyond a basic pastry crust. Consider using a mashed potato topping, seasoned with herbs and cheese, for shepherd’s pie or other meat-filled creations. A puff pastry lid, intricately cut and brushed with egg wash, provides a flaky and elegant alternative. You could also explore using a cornbread topping for chili pies or other southwestern-inspired dishes.
For a lighter option, consider using a breadcrumb topping mixed with grated Parmesan cheese and herbs. This adds a crispy and flavorful layer without the heaviness of a full crust. Alternatively, a lattice design made from strips of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, offers a savory and visually appealing topping that melts beautifully during baking.
How do I prevent my pie topping from burning?
Preventing your pie topping from burning requires careful attention and a few strategic techniques. The most common method is to tent the pie with aluminum foil halfway through baking. This shields the topping from direct heat, allowing the filling to cook through without over-browning the crust. Make sure the foil doesn’t touch the topping to avoid sticking.
Another tip is to lower the oven temperature slightly. A lower temperature allows the pie to bake more evenly, preventing the topping from scorching before the filling is cooked. Consider using a pie shield, a reusable ring that protects the outer edge of the crust, or even using a silicone pie crust protector. Keep a close eye on the pie throughout the baking process, adjusting the foil or temperature as needed.
Can I use cookie dough as a pie topping?
Yes, cookie dough can be a fun and delicious alternative to traditional pie crust toppings. Sugar cookie dough, gingerbread dough, or even chocolate chip cookie dough can add a unique flavor and texture to your pie. Roll out the dough and cut it into shapes to arrange on top of the filling, or crumble it over the pie like a crumble topping.
When using cookie dough, ensure that the filling is not too liquidy, as the cookie dough will need to bake properly. Monitor the baking carefully, as cookie dough can burn more easily than traditional pie crust. The baking time may also need to be adjusted depending on the thickness and type of cookie dough used.
What are some considerations for vegan pie toppings?
Vegan pie toppings offer a delicious and ethical alternative to traditional recipes. For crumble toppings, substitute vegan butter or coconut oil for dairy butter, and use a plant-based milk to bind the ingredients. Opt for whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends for a healthier option. Ground nuts and seeds can add extra richness and texture.
For a vegan meringue, aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) can be whipped into a surprisingly stable and fluffy meringue. Sweeten with maple syrup or agave nectar. Alternatively, you can create a vegan whipped cream using chilled coconut cream or a store-bought vegan whipping cream. Ensure all ingredients are certified vegan to avoid any animal-derived products.
How does the pie filling influence the choice of topping?
The pie filling plays a crucial role in determining the most suitable topping. Sweet and tart fruit fillings, such as apple or cherry, often pair well with crumbly or streusel toppings, offering a textural contrast and complementary sweetness. Meringue toppings are ideal for creamy or tangy fillings like lemon or key lime, providing a light and airy counterbalance.
For rich and decadent fillings, such as chocolate or pecan, a simple pastry crust or a lattice top may be the best choice, allowing the filling to take center stage. Savory fillings, like chicken pot pie or shepherd’s pie, benefit from hearty toppings like mashed potatoes or puff pastry, complementing the savory flavors and creating a satisfying meal. Consider the flavor profile, texture, and richness of the filling when selecting your pie topping to achieve a harmonious balance.