14 of the Most Creative Pie Crust Designs

Mini Chocolate-Pecan Pies

These smaller portions of chocolate pecan pie make snacking on something sweet way healthier and more realistic than reaching for an actual slice. (via Brit + Co)

Sweet Potato Parfait

You'll get a little bit of sweet and a little bit of savory with this aesthetically-pleasing Thanksgiving dessert. (via Brit + Co)

Double Chocolate Banana Pumpkin Bread

Though layered with chocolate, banana bread does have bananas in it, so that means it's healthy, right? (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Donuts with Pecan Frosting

No one can ever say no to a donut, and these can even double-duty as breakfast the morning after Thanksgiving. (via Delicious Knowledge)

Mini Chocolate Pumpkin Seed Candy Peanut Butter Cups

Who said Thanksgiving dessert had to be pie? Snack on these homemade Reese’s cups while you play games after dinner. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Pumpkin Pie Parfait with Coconut Whipped Cream

The most “difficult” part of this recipe is the 24-hour wait to dig in, but don’t worry — this layered gluten-free and vegan dessert is a great way to tap into your creative skills. (via Natural Girl Modern World)

Paleo Pecan Pie

You won’t be in a sugar coma after a slice (or two!) of this paleo pecan pie. Coconut oil and almond flour make this a delicious grain-free and dairy-free dessert. (via Bakerita)

Spiralized Apple Crumble

Instead of spending all your time chopping apples for a healthy Thanksgiving dessert, cut your time in half by spiralizing them for a quick and healthy apple crumble. It’s sure to be a huge hit and is *totally* Instagram-worthy. (via Healthy Maven)

No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Pecan Crust

Make these a few days in advance to take the stress out of the entire Thanksgiving dinner event. (via Joyful Healthy Eats)

Coconut Caramel Pecan Bars

These vegan and gluten-free bars look and taste fancy, but are a total breeze to make. (via Gourmande in the Kitchen)

Gluten-Free Apple Berry Crumble

Apple pie is so 2014. Instead, make a gluten-free crumble with those apples for a dessert that everyone can enjoy! (via Twin Stripe)

Maple Cupcakes with Pumpkin Pie Frosting

No one will guess that these cupcakes are healthy and gluten-free. Serving cupcakes will keep you from having to wash extra plates and forks, too. (via Amy’s Healthy Baking)

Paleo Pumpkin Pie

Traditional pumpkin pie isn’t gluten-free or paleo. Swap it out for this pie that’s free of dairy and refined sugar, and healthy enough to have for breakfast the day after Thanksgiving. (via Bakerita)

Cocoa Banana Ice Cream Turkeys

Banana ice cream is vegan and gluten-free, and won’t have you missing traditional pumpkin pie. You can have your turkey and eat it too with this adorable dessert, no matter if you’re a carnivore or not! (via Hungry Happenings)

Vegan Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes

Can you believe raw, vegan cheesecake is a thing? These are perfect for a treat everyone can enjoy, no matter what kind of diet they may follow. (via Clean Raw Living)

Gluten-Free Healthy Carrot Cake Bars

Loaded with freshly grated carrots, warm spices, and a velvety cream cheese drizzle, this treat is all about indulgence without all the guilt. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Gingerbread Loaf

Deck the halls with boughs of gingerbread! This gingerbread loaf is a slice of holiday happiness that'll transport you straight to a cozy winter wonderland. (via Clean Cuisine)

Granola Cookies

Packed with oats, nuts, and your choice of mix-ins, they're a crowd-pleaser that can be customized to perfection. These cookies offer a delightful crunch in every bite, and you can even make them ahead of time to ease your Thanksgiving prep. (via Crowded Kitchen)

Dark Chocolate Hummus

Browned Butter Banana Zucchini Cake

The browned butter in this healthy Thanksgiving dessert adds a rich, nutty note, while the bananas and zucchini keep it moist and sweet. This dessert is a Thanksgiving game-changer that'll have your family begging for seconds. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

Zucchini Bundt Cake

This beauty is all about turning a humble veggie into a dessert masterpiece. With its stunning spiral shape and tender crumb, it's a showstopper that'll have everyone reaching for another slice! (via Where Is My Spoon?)

Blueberry Galette

Bursting with plump, juicy blueberries and encased in a flaky, buttery crust, this treat is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Try serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dusted with powdered sugar! (via Vanilla and Bean)

Orange and Prune Scones

These are perfect bites for breakfast or as a charming addition to your Thanksgiving brunch spread. (via Gastroplant)

Pumpkin Swirl Brownies

Whoever first decided to put pumpkin and brownies together needs some sort of reward. (via Brit + Co)

The Ultimate Pumpkin Pie

For your next all-Saturday Netflix session, surprise your binge TV-watching buddy with a pumpkin pie that tastes of pecans, cloves and Biscoff spread. It's the perfect thing to accompany your go-to comfort show. (via Brit + Co)

Spiked Pumpkin Hot Chocolate

Everything about this drink sounds like a good idea. Pumpkin? The perfect seasonal ingredient. Hot cocoa? Our favorite cold weather drink. Rum? A tasty (and optional) part of the recipe. Make this hot chocolate for your Halloween party, Friendsgiving, and beyond. (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Pie Cookies

It's a pie. It's a cookie. It's a pumpkin pie cookie! This loaded canned pumpkin dessert recipe is the perfect thing to make and bring to a party. (via Lifestyle of a Foodie for Brit + Co)

DIY Pumpkin Curry Recipe

If you like to warm up your evenings with curry, swap your usual ingredients for pumpkin puree to make it even more autumnal. This recipe is full of your usual veggies, plus some avocado and coconut milk. (via Brit + Co)

Double Chocolate Banana Pumpkin Bread

Banana bread is already a tasty idea for fall baking, but add in pumpkin *and* chocolate for something that is too good to pass up. Swap the chocolate ganache for chocolate chips if you want, or just add in both. (via Brit + Co)

Paleo Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

This recipe is like your favorite cookies, just a little bit healthier. These cute cookies even look like pumpkins! (via Brit + Co)

Chocolate Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats

Upgrade this childhood Rice Krispie Treat with a dab of chocolate and a pinch of pumpkin to turn them into something fall-approved. Colorful sprinkles are non-negotiable. (via Brit + Co)

The Pumpkin Trifecta

One can, three delicious pumpkin desserts? It's not magic. It's just the great pumpkin. Try one at a time over the next month or make all three for your next fall dinner party. (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Pie Frozen Yogurt

It's never too cold for fro-yo. With some canned pumpkin and spices, this recipe is only 100 calories and promises to satisfy your October cravings. Count us in! (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Let's not forget our pooches. They deserve to gorge on gourd, too. Bonus points if you can find cute, dog-approved cookie cutters for this canned pumpkin recipie. (via Brit + Co)

French Toast Waffles Canned Pumpkin Recipe

Whoa. Pumpkin, French toast and waffles? This recipe is almost too good to be true. Talk about the ultimate Saturday morning breakfast! (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Spice Banana Bread

This easy banana bread is the yummiest excuse to use up ripe bananas and that can of pumpkin puree that's been sitting ini your cabinet for months. (via Brit + Co)

Apple Pumpkin Curry Soup

Get ready for a big spoonful of coziness. All of our favorite fall flavors are floating around this savory and sweet soup that makes for a great dinner anytime you're feeling cold. (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkintini

Who would've thought that you could make a PSL into a cocktail? Genius! (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal

Eating pie for breakfast is not a wise choice. Making your breakfasttaste like pie is. You won't want to go back to normal oatmeal after you try this recipe. (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Spice Smoothie

Fall-ify your morning smoothie with a little pumpkin and a little spice. (via Brit + Co)

One Pot Cheesy Pumpkin Pecan Pasta

If you thought pumpkin couldn't be added to a cheesy pasta, this is proof that it definitely can. Pecans add a little bit of crunch, and while this recipe is already meatless, you can make it with dairy-free cheese to turn it into something magically vegan. (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Pie Cobbler

Forget apple cobbler this fall. Try this pumpkin cobbler that's baked… inside a pumpkin. Mind = blown. (via Brit + Co)

White Chocolate Pumpkin Mousse With Spiked Whipped Cream

Thanksgiving Day already has your oven working overtime. Give it a break by serving up this delicious pumpkin-y no-bake dessert. Not only will it allow your kitchen to take it easy but you also won't be sweating over the stovetop. (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Donuts

These sugar-covered donuts are made from cake mix and canned pumpkin. Trust us: you do have time to make them. They're just that good. (via Betty Crocker)

Spiced Pumpkin Yogurt Parfaits

If you're looking for a way to add pumpkin to your morning routine, you found it. Use Greek yogurt and honey granola to make yourself a healthy breakfast. (via Cookin' Canuck)

Pumpkin, Pineapple and Rum Cocktail

At your next soirée, warm everyone up with this sweet and sour cocktail. (via Cookie and Kate)

Pumpkin Cheesecake Pillow Popovers

These pillow popovers will melt in your mouth, filling it with flavors of pumpkin and cheesecake. Our mouths are already watering for this canned pumpkin dessert. (via Willowbird Baking)

Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte

Sometimes, you just need a PSL. Don't want to get out of your PJs to make that happen? This recipe = problem solved. You can make it right in the comfort of you own kitchen, especially if you have your own at-home coffee bar. (via Chocolate Covered Katie)

Pumpkin Pie In A Jar

We're sure that everyone has wished for their own personal-sized pumpkin pie at some point in their life. Make that dream come true with these no-bake pies in a jar! (via Life, Love and Sugar)

Pumpkin Ice Cream Sandwiches

There isn't much in this world that compares to homemade ice cream. Except maybe homemade pumpkin ice cream sandwiches between homemade chocolate chip cookies. (via The Tart Tart)

Pumpkin Reeses

While Reeses are delicious all by themselves, replacing peanut butterwith pumpkin is the best idea we've heard all month. You can add a pinch of salt to round out the flavor. (via Chocolate-Covered Katie)

Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Wake up to deliciousness and pumpkin pie with these cinnamon rolls. We'll take two… pans. (via Diethood)

Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

If variety is the spice of life, then these cookies are everything. You can easily alter the flavor by using chocolate chips or cranberries or… wait for it… pumpkin seeds! (via Sally's Baking Addiction)

Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts

Do you have a strict morning routine? Make these Pop Tarts ahead of time for some pumpkin on the go if you don't have time to make a huge breakfast. (via Call Me PMC)

Pumpkin Ice Cream Pie

Realice cream plus canned pumpkin equals a super scrumptious twist on classic pumpkin pie. (via Averie Cooks)

Pumpkin and Peach Muffins

Who'd have thought these two orange ingredients would go so well together? You better be snatching up those peaches while you can. (via Eva Bakes)

Pumpkin Coffee Cake Donuts

These donuts will pair perfectly with your steaming cuppa. Pair with pumpkin spice tea or a PSL for the ultimate pumpkin experience. (via Delightfule Made)

Pumpkin-Spiced Walnut Butter

Alright, stop, collaborate and listen. Spice is back with a brand new invention. You've just gotta try this butter on your next bagel. (via Desserts With Benefits)

Pumpkin Crumb Cake

With the crazy baking season, who has hours and hours to spend baking? This cake may look complicated, but it's actually incredibly easy, which automatically gets a thumbs-up from us. Plus, who can resist a crumb topping like that? (Not us.) (via Bakerita)

Autumn Granola Canned Pumpkin Recipe

This pumpkin-y granola combines lots of flavors to create a breakfast you'll be craving all season long. Swap out some of the ingredients come winter to keep things seasonal. (via The Chic Life)

Maple Fudge Canned Pumpkin Recipe

Hand this fudge out to all of your trick or treaters, and don't be surprised when word on the street gets out that you've got the best treats on the block. (via The Sweet Chick)

Pumpkin Caramel Cheesecake Cones

'Tis the season for bonfires, and ice cream cones make the ideal vehicle for a delectable cheesecake treat that can be eaten (quickly!) around the fire. (via Country Cleaver)

Healthy Pumpkin Pancakes

These pancakes are a fabulous healthy way to refuel after a morning workout. Just go lighter on the syrup, or get your sweetness by adding some semi-sweet chocolate chips in each cake. (via Daily Burn)

Pumpkin Creme Brulee

Crusty top, creamy middle, pumpkin taste — now that's a dessert worth breaking a diet for. (via Baking a Moment)

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread

This warm, gooey and chocolatey take on a delicious pumpkin loaf bread is a heaven sent option for those who love combining their favorite fall flavors together. (via Woman Scribbles)

Pumpkin Maple Pecan Granola With Cranberries

Add a different texture to your pumpkin maple pecan granola with cranberries. Its sweet and crunchy flavor will pair well with morning cereal or yogurt bowls. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Cheesecake is one of those classic desserts that will probably never go away – not that we want it to. To spice things up, try baking these sweet pumpkin cheesecake bars. (via Averie Cooks)

Instant Pot Pumpkin Chili

A warm bowl of chili on a crisp fall day is enough to bring a smile to anyone's face, but did you know you could add pumpkin to it? For something that's a little spicy yet savory, make this Instant Pot pumpkin chili for the family this weekend! (via Bowl of Delicious)

Chicken and Pumpkin Risotto

We live for comfort foods like this chicken and pumpkin risotto. It's light and flavorful, making every spoonful a delight to taste. (via Where Is My Spoon?)

Pumpkin Spice Macarons

Macarons are another fan favorite that deserve their chance to be baked this fall. Bake this pumpkin spice recipe for your upcoming Halloween party! (via Barley & Sage)

So let’s start from the beginning. Paris Geller (played by Liza Weil) joined the GG crew in Season 1, right as Rory Gilmore (the show’s sort-of protagonist) walked into Chilton Academy, a private school where Paris was attending, for her first day. A far cry from Rory’s relatively timid and soft-spoken personality, Paris tore up the screen with her high-strung personality and immediate rivalry with Rory (Rory did not feel the same), who Paris viewed as the only candidate who could possibly challenge her spot at the top of the class standing. As the year progresses, the two become friends, which of course Paris still highly questioned.

The rest of their high school experience is plagued with repeated ups and downs, from Paris’s parents’ highly publicized divorce to their joint student government campaign and, most notably, Paris’s C-SPAN meltdown, courtesy of a Harvard rejection fueled by what she can only assume to be wide-spread knowledge that she lost her virginity. Despite losing the Valedictorian slot to Rory (which Paris comes to terms with after finding out Salutatorians tend to be more successful), Paris walks across the graduation stage and accepts her diploma from the school’s headmaster, to which she iconically quips, “no hard feelings.”

Fast forward to Paris’s first year at Yale, a school she knew Rory was attending but had no intention of ever seeing again. Not to the surprise of Paris’s life coach, the two frenemies were placed together as suitemates, a pairing that ultimately served as a catalyst for lifelong friendship. Throughout college, Paris pursues pre-med and pre-law degrees, joins the Yale Daily News alongside Rory, dates an elderly professor (he passes away, leaving Paris to grieve), moves on with the editor of the Yale Daily News, Doyle McMaster, and potentially saves Rory from abandoning Yale forever by admitting to Lorelai that Rory is the only person who ever listened to her, challenged her and motivated her.

Paris then proceeds to become the editor of the Yale Daily News, a position in which her power-hungry tendencies took full-force, resulting in a forcible resignation, kick Rory out of their shared apartment, let Rory move back into their shared apartment (now with Doyle), be accepted to a slew of prestigious medical and law schools. She ultimately chose to attend med school and break up with Doyle, to which he refused, and tells Rory that they’re on their own but she can still do great things (Of course this doesn’t last, the two are meant to be best friends.)

Somehow this doesn't even scratch the surface of the character of Paris. As you can tell, Paris is a fiercely loyal, protective woman who fights for herself to no end. She (literally) doesn’t care what other people think (so long as they’re not within her immediate circle) and never stops pursuing her dreams, no matter how many times she probably should have. She is the epitome of feminism in modern television — perhaps taken to an extreme — and serves as a necessary counterweight to Rory’s floundering sense of self.

So long as she keeps her need for perfectionism in check, Paris has one of those few personality types whose wild ambition and outspokenness is directly beneficial to her success, a success that she, and only she, can define. Sure, she has an exaggerated sense of self-importance, but when balanced by Rory’s soft-but-straightforward approach, Paris can quickly reset, reevaluate and move forward.

That's the thing with Paris — she’s always moving forward. She doesn't get into Harvard? Tough. She takes a few days to wallow before considering her other options: Yale, Columbia and Princeton. She doesn’t know whether to choose med school or law school, so she takes stock of her bearings, reflects on her past dreams, and makes a clear, concise decision that she moves forward with.

Her brutally honest nature (both internally and externally) is exactly why Paris works. She’s generous when needed, comfortable with giving tough (and oftentimes tougher) love, is able to express vulnerability with the people she loves, doesn’t allow outside influences to affect her path and never let’s someone (especially a man) tell her she’s less than (*cough, cough*—Rory). For an early 2000s show, she showed women that there is power in education. There’s power in stepping away from a caretaker role. There’s power in expressing your opinion, no matter your age.

There’s no doubt in my mind that she’s inspired countless women over the years — after all, she’s inspired me! Even though she’s had her controversial moments, she’s always been a cheering voice for women, even if it’s behind her resting grimace. For these reasons, and so many more, I am hereby deeming Paris Geller the best of Gilmore Girls — the heroine, perhaps, and a feminist icon to all.