Pie plate is a baking dish used to make pies. The word 'pie plate' is spelled as /paɪ pleɪt/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable of the word is spelled as 'pie' with the vowel sound /aɪ/ followed by the consonant sound /p/. The second syllable of the word is spelled as 'plate' with the vowel sound /eɪ/ followed by the consonant sound /t/. The spelling of the word 'pie plate' follows the phonetic rules of English language pronunciation.
A pie plate, also referred to as a pie dish or pie pan, is a shallow, round, ovenproof dish specifically designed for baking pies. It is typically made of various heat-resistant materials, such as ceramic, glass, or metal. The pie plate features a flat bottom and flared sides that slope gradually outward, providing a wider surface area for the crust and filling.
Pie plates come in different sizes, ranging from individual serving sizes to larger plates for family-sized pies. They can also have different depths, with deeper ones being suitable for deeper-dish or fruit pies. Some pie plates have a decorative rim or scalloped edge that not only adds aesthetic appeal but also aids in crimping and sealing the crust.
The primary purpose of a pie plate is to create a sturdy and evenly heated baking surface for pies, allowing for proper heat distribution and consistent baking results. It also helps contain the pie's contents, preventing the filling from overflowing during the baking process. Additionally, the shallow nature of the pie plate promotes a crisp and evenly browned crust, while the sloping sides make it easy to slide a knife or spatula under the pie for serving.
Pie plates are an essential tool in pie-making, offering the perfect vessel for creating delicious sweet or savory pies of various types, including fruit pies, custard pies, quiches, tarts, and more.
The word "pie plate" is derived from the Middle English word "pye" which means "magpie" (a type of bird) or "pie", and "plate" which refers to a flat, usually round, dish used for serving food. The term "pie plate" specifically refers to a shallow, round baking dish used for making pies.