How to bake the best Thanksgiving pies this year

PHOENIX (3TV/CBS 5) -- When people think about pies and Thanksgiving, the go-to is usually pumpkin pie and apple pie. They are signatures of fall and this holiday specifically. Yet, even after making what you think is the simplest pie can take time and practice, all of the work and time is worth it because pies can be some of the best and tastiest desserts.

Why pies?

Pies signify seasonal celebrations such as Thanksgiving or the 4th of July. Many of those pies are determined by the fruits being in season for that time of year. Thanksgiving is all about the pumpkin pie because it’s harvest season. The 4th of July period is the start of apple season, but apple pie is also a signature American dessert. Apples are some of the easiest kind of produce to store because you can dry it out, make it into applesauce, and depending on where you are, apples are available year-round.

There is a pie for everyone – fruit lovers and ones who are not. If you aren’t a fruit fan, you can still have chocolate pie, pot pie, meat pie; you name it. Pies also make a great breakfast food, especially if you run out of options or have some leftovers. It also pairs well with a cup of tea or coffee.

History of pies

Pies like bread and other products have been around for centuries, dating back to the Roman Empire. It has evolved as it made its way around Europe. During this time, pies were made with fish or other meats. The English first made Pies with fruit in the 1500s. Then the pie made its way to North America thanks to the early settlers. Over time, it became a popular dessert in America.

So why are pies round? It is mostly because tradition passed over time in history and how easy it is to give it that shape. Just imagine a square pie – it just doesn’t look the same, right? I like to think pies are a slice of cake in a different form, but oh so very good.

Kinds of pies

Where do we begin?! There are hundreds of different kinds of pies. Some include apple, pecan, pumpkin, key lime, cherry, lemon meringue, sweet potato, pot pie, peach, coconut cream, strawberry, blueberry, blackberry, chocolate, banana cream, and the list can go on and on.

Many pies vary per state or even country. The same goes for the time of year. Fall tends to be the time for pies like apple, pumpkin, sweet potato, and pecan pies. Why? In the fall, these kinds of items are in season, making them easier to obtain and, of course, make.