Pies and tarts are what make the after dinner conversation at holiday meals. We all know that last minute baking can be our worst enemy. After all, we are working on setting the table, entertaining guests, putting together last minute essentials; the last thing we need to worry about is watching a pie bake at 350 degrees (and if we try, it slips our mind and poof, burnt pie). There are ways around dealing with this pie fiasco, and I am going to tell you what they are.
Homemade pies are the best. We all know that we can make them ahead and freeze them with ease. This once was the best option for freezing our fruit pies. However, through trial and error, many pie makers can tell you that freezing before baking is not the only option. You can actually freeze your fruit pies after you bake them.
If you are freezing a custard pie, use ClearJel instead of cornstarch or flour in your filling. This will keep the quality of your filling. If you use cornstarch or flour you will have a mess on your hands and it will probably taste gritty and gummy.
How to Freeze an Unbaked Pie:
Freezing an unbaked pie is fairly simple. Before you assemble your pie, treat your fruit with Ascorbic Acid (basically just vitamin C). This will help your fruit to keep its color instead of turning brown.
Assemble your pie in a metal pie pan. Put it in a freezer bag and seal, label, and freeze it. This can be kept in the freezer for up to 4 months. After 4 months in the freezer I have not had much luck with quality of the fruit.
How to Bake an Unbaked Frozen Pie:
To bake your unbaked pie, you can simply remove it from the freezer bag and cover it with foil. Bake it at 450 degrees F for 15 minutes, this will keep the bottom crust from getting soggy and very undesirable.
Uncover your pie and bake for 55 to 60 minutes. You will know when it is done. Your filling will be bubbly and your crust a beautiful golden brown.
How to Freeze a Baked Fruit Pie:
After you bake your pie, let it cool completely. Place it in a freezer bag and seal, label, and freeze it for up to 4 months. Again, I have not had much luck past 4 months with the quality.
How to Use a Pre-Baked Frozen Pie:
Using a pre-baked frozen pie is not that difficult. Simply place it in the refrigerator and let it thaw. Do not place it on the counter top to thaw because the crust will become soggy from the rapid temperature change.
Other Options:
Another option to freezing pre made pies, is to freeze your pie separately. Simply make your filling and freeze it according to the recommendations for that filling. Make your pie crust and freeze it according to that specific recipe.
When you are ready to serve your pie. Simply thaw out your components. After your crust is thoroughly thawed, brush it with beaten egg and sprinkle it with sugar. Pour in your filling an bake according to your recipe.
