3 Fun Ways to Top Off Your Pies

By Alison KentUpdated: Mar. 20, 2019

Looking to add that final visual touch to your pies? Discover how to give your recipes a beautiful decorative top.

1 / 3

1. Criss-Cross

Use crimped pastry wheel to cut dough into 6 strips, ½ inch (1 cm) thick and about 4 inches (10 cm) long. Place 3 of the strips, running in same direction, on work surface, leaving a scant quarter inch (0.6 cm) between each. Weave remaining strips under and over these; transfer to pie top. Trim overhang.

Illustration: Pierre Loranger

2 / 3

2. The Caterpillar

Cut out tiny pastry rounds and lay on top of pie, overlapping slightly, in a circular shape starting at the outer edge and finishing up in the centre. Brush egg wash between pastry pieces as glue.

Illustration: Pierre Loranger

3 / 3

3. The Monogram

Create monograms by rolling extra dough into long, slender ropes. Shape into first initial of diners’ names and trim ends; affix to top crust with egg wash.

Illustration: Pierre Loranger

Originally Published: October 09, 2012