Let Them Eat Pie

It's not just for dessert. We've got five sweet and savory options that all start with our simple whole-wheat crust. This easy dough is great as is in each of these recipes, but can also be kicked up with tasty add-ins. You'll love the versatility!

These protein-packed, personal breakfast pies can be made ahead and frozen. Pop them in the microwave on busy weekday mornings.

All of your favorite fillings in a wholesome cornmeal crust make for a healthy and fun take on the classic taco.

Cornmeal Crust Variation: Prepare the Basic Whole-Wheat Pie Dough, replacing ? cup of the all-purpose flour with ? cup cornmeal, and adding ? teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients. The cornmeal soaks up liquid, so you may need to use slightly more ice water for the dough to ball.

Your family will adore the creamy texture in this flavorful snack.

Herbed Crust Variation: Prepare the Basic Whole-Wheat Pie Dough, adding a pinch each of oregano, lemon zest, and salt to the dry ingredients.

Don't let its decadent looks fool you. This pie packs a nutritious punch with antioxidant-rich cherries and almonds.

Chocolate Crust Variation: Prepare the Basic Whole-Wheat Pie Dough, adding 2 tablespoons of sugar and 4 tablespoons of Dutch cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.

These portion-controlled treats are just as fun to eat as their namesake dessert. (And a lot easier to bite!)

Spiced Dough Variation: Prepare the Basic Whole-Wheat Pie Dough, adding 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 2 tablespoons of sugar to the dry ingredients.

Sometimes making dough from scratch just doesn't fit your schedule. Try these recipe shortcuts that make great use of delicious store-bought crusts.

Breakfast Pies: Slice dough circles from a 15-oz. box of refrigerated Immaculate Baking Co. piecrusts.
Southwest Taco Pie: Line your pie plate with an 8-oz. package of refrigerated Pillsbury Crescent rolls.
Spinach Cheese Triangles: Cut rectangles from a 17.3-oz. package of Pepperidge Farm frozen Puff Pastry.
Chocolate-Cherry Crumb Pie: Add cherry filling and crumb topping to a 6-oz. pan of Keebler Ready Crust Chocolate Crumb Pie Crust.
Caramel Apple Pie Sticks: Cut rectangles from layered sheets of a 16-oz. package of Athens Fillo Dough. Coat sheets with nonstick cooking spray.

Originally published in the April 2012 issue of Parents magazine.