Don’t let National Pie Day pass you by

Happy National Pie Day. It’s today. I know, it crept up on you. I hear you, it happened to me, too. But it’s not too late for us to celebrate. Here are three ways to embrace this beloved holiday:

1. Pie worth a try.  Don’t let the day go by without indulging. Pick your pie. Maybe you want to make a family favorite or go buy a pie from a local bakery. If you’re inclined to try something new and simple, consider making a minty grasshopper pie infused with Andes candies. See recipe below.

2. Protect your pie.  Forget burnt crusts and crimped foil. This year, invest in a metal pie saver that protects the outer edges of your pie’s crust. Look at home goods stores for this inexpensive item, or shop online. We found one for $5 at www.southernflavoring.com.

3. Peruse the pies.  Since 1995, amateur, commercial and professional bakers have competed in the National Pie Championships to determine the best pies in the country. Now nearly 200 of those award winners are compiled in a new cookbook, ”America’s Best Pies: Nearly 200 Recipes You'll Love.” You’ll find the best recipes for the pies you adore, whether it’s apple, rhubarb, Boston cream or Key lime. You’ll also find ultra-creative confections the likes of White-Bottomed Caramel Chocolate Pecan Pie, Deep-Dish Deluxe Banana Split Pie, and Island Breeze Pineapple-Blueberry Cream Pie.

Find the book at select bookstores, on Kindle, at Amazon.com, or at www.piecouncil.org. ($24.95).

GRASSHOPPER PIE

11⁄2 cups cold milk

1 package (3.9 ounces) instant chocolate pudding mix

23⁄4 cups whipped topping, divided

1 package (4.67 ounces) Andes mint candies, chopped, divided

1 9-inch prepared chocolate crumb crust

1⁄4 teaspoon mint extract

2 drops green food coloring, optional

In a small bowl, whisk milk and pudding mix for 2 minutes. Let stand for 2 minutes or until soft-set. Fold in 3⁄4 cup whipped topping. Fold in 3⁄4 cup candies. Spoon into crust. In another bowl, combine extract and remaining whipped topping; add food coloring if desired. Spread over pudding layer; sprinkle with remaining candies. Cover and refrigerate for 4 hours or until set. Yield: 8 servings.

Taste of Home