Frequently Asked Questions
What size jars are recommended for these individual pies?
You should use half-pint (8 oz) tempered glass canning jars for this recipe.
Do I need a specific type of glass for the jars?
Yes, it is important to use tempered glass canning jars as they are designed to withstand the heat of the oven.
How many servings does this pie recipe make?
This recipe is designed to make 4 individual jar pies.
Can I use a store-bought crust for these pies?
Yes, you can use either a homemade or a store-bought unbaked double pie crust.
What fruits work best as filling?
You can use a variety of fruits such as apples, peaches, plums, or berries.
How much fruit filling goes into each jar?
Divide the mixture evenly between the jars, using approximately 1/2 cup of filling per jar.
What is the baking temperature for these pies?
The pies should be baked at 375°F (190°C).
How long do I bake the pies if they are fresh?
If baking fresh, the pies typically take about 45 minutes to bake.
Can these individual pies be frozen?
Yes, you can seal the jars tightly with metal lids and store them in the freezer until you are ready to bake them.
How do I bake the pies from frozen?
Remove the metal lids and place the frozen jars on a baking sheet. Bake for 50-60 minutes.
Do I need to thaw the pies before baking?
No, you can bake them directly from the freezer; just ensure the lids are removed first.
What ingredients are needed for the crumb topping?
The crumb topping is made from brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, cold butter, and oats.
How do I ensure the steam escapes during baking?
Cut a few small slits in the top crust or use a small cookie cutter to create a decorative opening.
Can I make a savory version of these pies?
Yes, these jars are versatile and can be used for savory fillings like chicken pot pie.
What extracts are used for flavoring the fruit filling?
The recipe calls for a dash of both vanilla extract and almond extract.
How do I prevent the filling from spilling over?
Be careful not to overfill the jars; sticking to 1/2 cup of filling helps prevent spillage.
Should I brush anything on the top crust?
Yes, brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with sugar for a golden, finished look.
What type of sugar should I use for the filling?
You can use either white or brown sugar, adjusting the sweetness based on the type of fruit used.
How do I line the jars with the dough?
Roll out the dough and press pieces into the jar starting from the bottom, moving upwards to the rim.
How do I seal the top crust to the bottom?
Crimp the edges of the top crust with your fingers against the dough lining the rim of the jar.
Are these pies suitable for gifts?
Absolutely! They make great gifts or party favors when decorated with ribbons and labels.
How many calories are in one individual pie?
Each individual jar pie contains approximately 300 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving has approximately 15g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in each pie?
There are approximately 40g of carbohydrates per serving.
Do I need to wash the jars before using them?
Yes, you should wash and thoroughly dry the jars and lids before starting the recipe.
Can I serve the pie out of the jar?
Yes, you can eat them directly from the jar or pop them onto a plate for presentation.
What is the purpose of the citrus zest in the filling?
A pinch of citrus zest is added to enhance and brighten the flavor of the fruit.
Is there salt in the recipe?
Yes, a pinch of salt is added to the filling mixture to balance the flavors.
What should I do if my fruit is very juicy?
If your fruit is particularly juicy, you can add a bit more flour to the filling mixture to help it thicken.
How should I finish the jars for a wedding favor?
After the jars have cooled, you can add ribbons, custom labels, or decorative lids to match your event theme.