There’s something magical about a pie or tart made from scratch. The crisp, buttery shell, the rich fillings, the aroma wafting through the kitchen – each one is a celebration of seasonal ingredients and heartfelt baking. Whether you’re leaning into something rustic and cozy or leaning on a chilled citrus pie to cut through the heat, this curated collection offers the best of both worlds.
In this roundup, you’ll find sweet and savory options, no-bake treats for summer days, and showstopping bakes for when only something truly beautiful will do. Each recipe is approachable yet impressive, making them perfect for both everyday bakers and special occasions.
Classic French Apple Tart with Almond Cream
This tart is as elegant as it is delicious. Layers of thinly sliced apples rest on a soft, nutty almond cream known as frangipane, all nestled in a golden tart crust. Finished with a shiny apricot glaze, it’s a dessert that looks and tastes like it came straight out of a French patisserie.
Despite its sophisticated appearance, it’s remarkably simple to put together. The buttery crust, sweet almond layer, and tender apples come together in perfect harmony, making it ideal for fall baking, Thanksgiving tables, or simply when you’re craving something cozy yet refined.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
Full recipe here
Chocolate Ganache Tart With Sea Salt & Olive Oil
This ganache tart is what chocolate dreams are made of – silky, glossy, and rich without being heavy. It sits in a crisp chocolate cookie crust and is topped with two simple yet powerful accents: flaky sea salt and a drizzle of fruity olive oil. The contrast of salty-sweet is irresistible.
You don’t need to be an experienced baker to pull this one off, either. The ganache filling requires no baking, and the tart itself can be made ahead of time. It’s the perfect ending to a dinner party or an indulgent treat for those moments when only deep, velvety chocolate will do.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes (crust only)
- Chill Time: 2 hours
Full recipe here
Fresh Berry Mascarpone Tart with Honey-Almond Crust
This vibrant tart features a creamy mascarpone filling that’s just lightly sweetened and nestled into a rustic honey-almond oat crust. Topped with fresh seasonal berries, it’s a beautiful no-bake dessert that looks impressive but comes together with minimal effort.
The crust adds a nutty depth that pairs perfectly with the tangy mascarpone and bright berries. It’s the perfect summer tart, especially when you don’t want to turn on the oven but still want a dessert that turns heads. Serve it at brunches, showers, or warm-weather dinner parties.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (crust)
- Chill Time: 2 hours
Full recipe here
Rustic Tomato Ricotta Tart With Herbed Olive Oil Crust
Savory tarts deserve their spotlight too, and this one is a standout. It starts with an olive oil crust infused with herbs, then gets filled with creamy ricotta, grated Parmesan, and sliced ripe tomatoes. Baked until golden and bubbling, it’s fresh and satisfying all in one bite.
This tart is perfect as a light lunch, paired with a simple salad, or as part of a brunch spread. It’s also an excellent make-ahead option for picnics or gatherings, where it can be served warm or at room temperature. A true Mediterranean-inspired favorite.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
Full recipe here
Classic Key Lime Pie with Graham Cracker Crust
Bright, tangy, and blissfully creamy, this key lime pie is the quintessential summer dessert. The filling is made from sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and key lime juice, poured into a crisp graham cracker crust and baked just until set.
What makes it so great – beyond the tart-sweet flavor – is that it’s so easy to make. Just a few ingredients and minimal prep deliver maximum flavor. It’s a refreshing finish to any meal, and garnished with whipped cream or lime zest, it’s as pretty as it is delicious.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 3-4 hours
Full recipe here
Salted Honey Custard Tart with Buttery Shortcrust
This silky custard tart is sweetened entirely with honey, giving it a floral depth that’s both delicate and indulgent. It’s baked in a tender shortcrust pastry and finished with a dusting of flaky sea salt, which perfectly balances the richness of the filling.
The texture is smooth and creamy, and it’s one of those tarts that feels fancy but is deceptively easy to prepare. Make it ahead and serve chilled for a refreshing dessert option that feels right at home on both holiday tables and casual gatherings.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
Full recipe here
Pear & Almond Tart with Maple Glaze
This gorgeous tart highlights ripe, thinly sliced pears arranged over almond frangipane. As it bakes, the frangipane puffs up around the pears, creating a tender, nutty base. A brush of maple syrup on top adds sheen and warmth without overpowering the fruit.
It’s a stunning fall dessert, ideal for using seasonal produce in a way that feels both homey and refined. Serve it at Thanksgiving, autumn brunches, or whenever pears are at their peak and you want something a little extra special.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Cool Time: 30 minutes
Full recipe here
Mini Chocolate Hazelnut Tarts with Whipped Ganache
These bite-sized beauties are made for sharing. Crisp tart shells are filled with silky ganache blended with chocolate hazelnut spread, then topped with toasted nuts or a swirl of whipped cream. They’re rich, elegant, and dangerously easy to eat.
Perfect for parties, dessert platters, or homemade gifts, these tarts are great for when you want individual servings that still deliver big flavor. They’re also easy to prep ahead and chill until ready to serve.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
Full recipe here
No-Bake Lemon Icebox Pie with Gingersnap Crust
This chilled lemon pie is the ultimate summer dessert: cool, creamy, and packed with citrus brightness. The filling is smooth and tart thanks to lemon juice and zest, while the gingersnap crust adds spice and crunch.
No baking is required, making it perfect for hot days or quick prep before a gathering. Garnish with whipped cream and lemon slices for a treat that’s refreshing, light, and totally crowd-pleasing.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 4-6 hours or overnight
Full recipe here
Pies & Tarts to Achieve “WOW” Factor
This Pies & Tarts collection is a celebration of everything we love about baking – flavor, texture, seasonal ingredients, and that magical blend of simplicity and sophistication. Whether you’re pulling out your rolling pin or opting for a quick no-bake dessert, there’s a recipe here that will make your table a little more special.
From fruit-forward showstoppers to chocolate indulgences and savory delights, these recipes offer something for every occasion and every kind of baker. Try one the next time you’re looking to wow guests or treat yourself – you just might find your new favorite.
