Do you love apple pie, but feel stuck in a classic-pie rut at Thanksgiving? Bake outside the box this year with the Italian version, known as crostata. Unlike typical American pie pastry, crostata pastry is similar to cookie dough, so instead of being flaky, it bakes up like a crisp, chewy sugar cookie. Drizzle slices with warm spiced caramel sauce, and you just might count yourself among the crostata converts.
Editor's Note: This recipe is part of our Gourmet Modern Menu for Thanksgiving for 2 or 20. Menu also includes: Citrus-Sage Roast Turkey with Gravy (whole turkey or breast ); Roasted Butternut Squash Ribbons with Arugula, Pancetta, and Hazelnut Salad; Mashed Potato and Cauliflower Gratin; Cabernet-Cranberry Sauce with Figs; and Challah, Sausage, and Dried Cherry Stuffing .
•Dough can be made up to 3 days ahead and chilled.
•Crostata can be made 1 day ahead and kept in pan at room temperature, covered with foil. Reheat, if desired, uncovered, in a 325°F oven until warm, 10 to 15 minutes, then let cool to room temperature.
•Caramel sauce can be made 5 days ahead and chilled, covered. Reheat slowly in a saucepan.
