Decorative Steam Vents

Small slits or other openings must be made in closed pies in order to let steam escape during baking. These can be extremely attractive and in harmony with the pie filling. For example, on the top crust of a fruit pie, prick or cut the outlines of the fruit used, such as apples, peaches, or plums.... An interesting cherry pie can be made by cutting eight half-inch holes in the top crust to represent cherries. For stems, cut slits.... To personalize a pie, prick the initials of the one you wish to honor.... For a Christmas mince pie, roll the top crust, and cut with small Christmas tree cutter, making 5 trees and pointing the tips of the trees to the rim of the pie. The trees should not be cut out of the dough—merely outlined. Brush the trees with egg white and sprinkle with red sugar.