When testing Sweet Potato Pie, I asked for feedback from my southern friend, Bernard, who knows how sweet potato pie should really taste. One of the first ingredients to go was cloves. I made adjustments and baked off little ramekin samples until he assured me that it was just right. It’s southern goodness in a crust. Thanks, Bernard!
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This Flaky Pastry has been my “no-fail” recipe since 1998. It is easy to handle, has exceptional flavor, and is incredibly flaky. If the idea of making pastry is a bit intimidating, just start with pastry cookies. Preheat oven to 400°F while making a half recipe of Flaky Pastry. After rolling, shape with 3-inch cookie cutters, or use a pizza wheel to cut into squares or triangles. Transfer to a sheet pan, and lightly brush with melted butter and sprinkle with sugar. Bake until puffed and golden (9-10 minutes). When cookies emerge as layers of flaky goodness, you will know that you have mastered the technique.
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Autumn Leaf Pumpkin Pie has enriched our Thanksgiving celebrations for years. It all goes back to 1996, which was the year of pumpkin pie tests. After each, Mark asked for more spices and a deeper dish. After this version, there were no more requests other than I make it more often! It is especially delicious when topped with homemade whipped cream. Growing up, we lived in a world where Cool Whip was all the rage. No one in our family was making whipped cream the old-fashioned way. Then one year, Mark’s mom started serving it at family gatherings, which was the end of the tub.
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