Don’t Be a Hero: 5 Reasons You Should Just Buy the Pie
If you’re hosting your first Thanksgiving, the biggest mistake you can make is trying to do too much. I mean, you are already roasting a very big bird; one that, before it even goes in the oven, takes up precious real estate in your freezer and then in your fridge. It’s possible you are also making a slew of side dishes.
Also, not insignificantly, you are opening your home to some number of other people. It follows that you will need to clean (a little) and make sure you have enough utensils. This is a big thing in and of itself. You are already a hero.
So, there is really no need to make a homemade pie. Take any temptation you might have and just put it away. Box it up, tie a ribbon on it, and pretend like it never happened.
That’s not to say you should skip the pie. No, I’m saying you should buy the pie. Hear me out.
1. It’s cheaper.
Flour and butter, sugar and spices, nuts and fruits — pie costs can add up quickly. For a comparable price (or cheaper), you can find a high-quality pie that’s as tasty as anything you’d bake in your kitchen. Usually around the holidays grocery store bakeries run specials like buy one pie, get one free, so keep your eyes open for a killer deal.
2. It’s quicker.
Prepping the crust, preparing the filling, baking, and cooling — it’s all so time-consuming! If you have little ones or you’re just, you know, busy with other things like roasting a huge turkey, take the shortcut. Store-bought crusts will save you time; a store-bought pie will save you even more time.
3. There’s less cleanup.
If you detest doing dishes as much as I do, you’ll appreciate that a pie that you buy requires significantly less cleanup. There will be no pots, pans, or bowls to rinse out.
4. It’s easier to transport.
There’s a lot to be said for sturdy packaging. When you buy a pie, it’s already packaged and ready to go — no need to fuss with finicky plastic wrap or wonky tin foil. That convenience goes a long way when you’re traveling and already feeling stressed.
5. There are delicious store-bought options available.
Last, but not least, there are some really good options out there, whether you’re hankering for a fruit pie or the classic pumpkin pie. Most supermarkets can accommodate you with a fresh or frozen version.
And before you turn your nose up at frozen pies, there are some fabulous frozen ones out there to give you your fix. Usually they require nothing more than a quick thaw or a short bake in the oven before they’re ready to serve. And that is a totally acceptable amount of effort to put in.
What do you think: Would you serve — or gift — a store-bought pie?