Texas is renowned for its delectable pies, from classic pecan to juicy peach. With Thanksgiving and other holidays approaching, many find themselves craving these sweet treats but lacking the time to bake from scratch. Fortunately, the Lone Star State boasts numerous talented pie makers ready to satisfy those cravings.
For those seeking delicious pies without the hassle of baking, Texas offers a variety of excellent pie shops and bakeries across the state. These establishments craft everything from traditional favorites to unique flavor combinations, ensuring there’s a perfect pie for every palate. Whether you’re in a major city or a small town, chances are a skilled pie maker is nearby, ready to provide a slice of comfort and joy.
1) Royers Pie Haven
Royers Pie Haven in Round Top, Texas is a beloved destination for pie enthusiasts. This charming bakery offers a wide selection of mouthwatering pies and baked goods.
Visitors can indulge in classic flavors like pecan and peach, as well as unique creations such as the Texas Trash pie. The menu also features variations like the Not My Mom’s Apple Pie and the Butterscotch Pie.
Beyond whole pies, Royers Pie Haven serves individual slices, perfect for those looking to sample different flavors. The bakery’s warm atmosphere and friendly staff contribute to a welcoming experience for customers.
For those seeking a quick treat, Royers offers coffee and other baked goods to complement their signature pies. The bakery’s popularity often leads to busy periods, but efficient service ensures customers are served promptly.
Royers Pie Haven: 190 Henkel Street, Round Top, TX 78954
Phone: (979) 249-5282
Email: [email protected]
Website: royerspiehaven.com
2) Emporium Pies
Emporium Pies offers a modern twist on classic pie flavors across multiple locations in Texas. This popular pie shop serves both slices and whole pies to satisfy sweet cravings.
Their menu features creative takes on traditional favorites, appealing to pie enthusiasts looking for something a bit different. Emporium Pies prides itself on using high-quality ingredients and crafting pies with care.
Customers can enjoy their treats at brick-and-mortar shops or order pies for takeaway. The company has expanded its reach, now offering pies through select grocery stores as well.
Emporium Pies has locations in Dallas, Fort Worth, McKinney, and Deep Ellum. Their Bishop Arts shop in Dallas is particularly popular among locals and visitors alike.
For those planning ahead, Emporium Pies also offers special seasonal items like hand pies, available for pre-order on select dates.
Contact: Website – www.emporiumpies.com
Locations: Dallas, Fort Worth, McKinney, Deep Ellum, and Bishop Arts (Dallas)
3) Tiny Pies
Tiny Pies offers a unique twist on traditional desserts with their hand-held pies. These miniature treats are crafted from family recipes passed down through generations, providing the same comforting flavors as grandma’s homemade pies in a convenient size.
The Austin-based bakery prides itself on using fresh, seasonal ingredients in their creations. This commitment to quality ensures that each tiny pie is bursting with flavor and wholesome goodness.
Tiny Pies caters to various tastes with their diverse menu. From classic flavors like pecan and apple to more adventurous options, there’s a pie for every palate.
For those unable to visit their Austin locations, Tiny Pies offers nationwide shipping. This service allows pie lovers across the country to enjoy these delectable treats right at home.
The company also provides options for gifting and corporate orders. Their curated gift boxes make for thoughtful presents, whether sending to a few friends or a large group of clients.
Tiny Pies – Multiple locations in Austin, TX | Website: www.tinypies.com
4) Pie in the Sky Pie Co.
Pie in the Sky Pie Co. is a beloved local bakery in Conroe, Texas, serving the community since 2004. Located at FM 2854 & North Loop 336, this charming establishment offers a delightful array of pies and baked goods.
The bakery is open seven days a week, catering to customers’ cravings for breakfast, lunch, and of course, their signature pies. Their menu features a variety of sweet and savory options to satisfy every palate.
Pie enthusiasts can indulge in an assortment of 4-inch pies, perfect for sampling multiple flavors. The bakery takes pride in using fresh ingredients to ensure the highest quality in every bite.
For those unable to visit the store, Pie in the Sky offers convenient dessert delivery services. They also ship their pies Monday through Wednesday to maintain freshness during transit.
Customers praise the bakery for its excellent food, service, and inviting atmosphere. It has become a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike seeking a taste of homemade goodness.
Contact: Pie in the Sky Pie Co., FM 2854 & North Loop 336, Conroe, TX. Website: www.pieinthesky.com
5) Texas Pie Company
Texas Pie Company in Kyle offers a delightful array of homemade pies and baked goods. Their menu features classic favorites like Southern Pecan and Granny Smith Dutch Apple, alongside unique creations such as Almond Joy and Fudge Pecan.
The company takes pride in using fresh, quality ingredients to craft their 10-inch deep dish pies and 4-inch individual sizes. Customers can enjoy a slice in their cozy dining area or take a whole pie to go.
Beyond pies, Texas Pie Company serves up savory options like quiches and casseroles. They also offer a lunch menu with daily specials, perfect for a midday treat.
For those unable to visit in person, the bakery provides delivery options through popular services like DoorDash and Favor.
Texas Pie Company
23675 Interstate 35, Kyle, TX 78640
Phone: (512) 268-5885
Website: www.texaspiecompany.com
Hours: Monday-Friday 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM, Saturday 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM, Closed Sundays
6) Cutie Pies
Cutie Pies Bake Shop offers a delightful array of homemade pies for those seeking a taste of traditional Texas desserts. Founded by Bethany, who recently celebrated her 50th birthday, the bakery draws inspiration from her family’s rich baking heritage.
The shop prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, ensuring the highest quality in every slice. Customers can enjoy a variety of flavors, from classic fruit pies to more innovative creations.
Bethany’s upbringing in a family of exceptional cooks and home bakers shines through in the shop’s offerings. The pies at Cutie Pies Bake Shop reflect generations of culinary expertise and a passion for baking.
For those looking to indulge in freshly baked pies without the hassle of making them at home, Cutie Pies Bake Shop provides a convenient and delicious solution.
Cutie Pies Bake Shop
Address: [Address not provided in search results]
Website: www.cutiepiesbakeshop.com [website inferred, not confirmed]
7) Blue Bonnet Cafe
Blue Bonnet Cafe in Marble Falls, Texas has been serving up delicious pies since 1929. This iconic eatery is known for its mouthwatering desserts and welcoming atmosphere.
Pie enthusiasts flock to Blue Bonnet Cafe for their extensive selection. Popular flavors include chocolate cream, chocolate meringue, German chocolate cream, and peanut butter cream.
The cafe’s pies feature generous portions and towering meringues that catch the eye. While some visitors find the pies live up to the hype, others have reported mixed experiences.
Blue Bonnet Cafe offers more than just desserts. Patrons can enjoy a full menu of comfort food before indulging in a slice of pie.
Located in the Texas Hill Country, this longstanding establishment has become a local institution. Its reputation attracts both residents and tourists looking for a taste of classic Texas pie.
Blue Bonnet Cafe
211 US-281, Marble Falls, TX 78654
Phone: (830) 693-2344
Website: bluebonnetcafe.net
8) Flying Saucer Pie Company
Flying Saucer Pie Company has been a Houston institution since 1967. As the oldest family-owned bakery in the city, they’ve built a reputation for exceptional pies.
The bakery specializes exclusively in pies, offering a wide variety of flavors to satisfy any sweet tooth. Their commitment to quality has earned them a devoted following among locals and visitors alike.
During the Thanksgiving season, Flying Saucer Pie Company becomes a hotspot for dessert enthusiasts. They produce over 30,000 pies in this period, far surpassing their usual output.
The popularity of their pies often leads to long lines, with some customers camping out overnight to secure their holiday desserts. It’s not uncommon to see queues stretching up to half a mile during peak times.
Flying Saucer Pie Company’s success stems from their dedication to traditional baking methods and high-quality ingredients. Their pies have become a cherished part of many Texans’ holiday celebrations.
Address: 436 W. Crosstimbers Street, Houston, TX
Website: flyingsaucerpieshop.com
9) Mile High Pie Company
Mile High Pie Co. specializes in crafting gourmet pies and quiches on Colorado’s front range. Their commitment to quality shines through in their small-batch, handmade creations.
The company’s signature feature is their flaky all-butter crust, which serves as the foundation for a variety of delectable fillings. Their Fall 2024 menu showcases both classic and innovative flavors.
Seasonal specials include Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pie, German Chocolate Pie, and Mom’s Famous Pumpkin Pie. Year-round offerings feature Walnut, Whisky, Maple Pie, Mixed Berry Pie, and Strawberry Rhubarb Pie.
Mile High Pie Co. has gained recognition as one of Denver’s top pie shops. Their dedication to small-scale production and passion for baking results in consistently high-quality desserts.
Customers praise the pies for their balanced sweetness and memorable flavors. The company’s creations have even been featured as star desserts at weddings and birthday celebrations.
Mile High Pie Co., 4897 Oakland St, Denver, CO 80239. Open Monday to Wednesday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.
10) House of Pies
House of Pies is a beloved Texas institution serving up delicious pies and comfort food. With locations in Houston, The Woodlands, Cypress, and Katy, this family-friendly restaurant and bakery has become a go-to spot for pie lovers across the state.
The menu at House of Pies features an impressive variety of homemade pies. Customers can choose from classic flavors like apple and pecan, as well as more unique options such as key lime and various meringue pies.
For those watching their sugar intake, House of Pies offers a sugar-free apple pie option. They also cater to different tastes with mini pies in popular flavors like apple and cherry.
Beyond pies, House of Pies serves all-day breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant prides itself on offering quality comfort food alongside its famous desserts.
During the holiday season, House of Pies provides a convenient option for those seeking festive treats. They offer holiday pie shipping, allowing customers to send their favorite pies as gifts.
Contact: Multiple locations in Houston, The Woodlands, Cypress, and Katy, TX
Website: www.houseofpies.com
Understanding Pie Makers
Pie makers are convenient kitchen appliances designed to simplify the pie-making process. These devices offer a quick and easy way to create delicious pies without the need for a traditional oven.
Types of Pie Makers
Electric pie makers come in various sizes and styles. Single-pie models are ideal for individuals or small households, while larger units can produce multiple pies simultaneously.
Some pie makers feature interchangeable plates, allowing users to create different sizes or shapes of pies. Others specialize in specific types, such as deep-dish or mini pies.
Versatile models can also make quiches, pot pies, and other savory dishes, expanding their utility in the kitchen.
How Pie Makers Work
Pie makers function similarly to waffle irons. They have top and bottom heated plates that cook the pie from both sides simultaneously.
The plates are typically non-stick and feature molded designs to create perfect crusts. Users place the prepared dough and filling into the bottom plate, close the lid, and let the machine do the work.
Most pie makers have indicator lights to show when they’re preheated and when the pie is done. Cooking times vary but are generally much shorter than traditional oven baking.
Choosing the Right Pie Maker
When selecting a pie maker, consider the following factors:
- Capacity: Determine how many pies you want to make at once.
- Size: Ensure the appliance fits in your kitchen space.
- Versatility: Look for models that can make different types of pies or other dishes.
- Ease of cleaning: Non-stick surfaces and removable plates simplify maintenance.
- Temperature control: Some models offer adjustable settings for precise cooking.
Read product reviews and compare features to find a pie maker that suits your needs. Quality brands often provide better durability and consistent results.
Consider your baking frequency and the types of pies you enjoy making. A basic model may suffice for occasional use, while frequent bakers might prefer a more advanced appliance.
The Art of Pie Making
Mastering pie making requires skill, practice, and attention to detail. From crafting the perfect crust to achieving the ideal filling consistency, several key elements contribute to a delicious homemade pie.
Essential Pie Baking Tips
Start with cold ingredients for the crust. Use chilled butter and ice water to create a flaky texture. Handle the dough minimally to prevent overworking.
Blind bake the crust for custard pies to avoid a soggy bottom. Line the unbaked crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
For fruit pies, mix the filling just before adding it to the crust to prevent excess liquid. Tapioca or cornstarch can help thicken juicy fillings.
Always preheat the oven and use an oven thermometer for accurate temperature control. Place pies on the lowest rack for even bottom browning.
Common Pie-Making Mistakes
Overworking the dough leads to tough crusts. Mix ingredients just until combined and avoid excessive kneading.
Using warm ingredients causes butter to melt prematurely, resulting in a less flaky crust. Chill all components before use.
Underbaking the crust leaves it pale and doughy. Bake until golden brown for optimal flavor and texture.
Overfilling the pie can cause spillage and uneven cooking. Follow recipe guidelines for filling amounts.
Cutting into a hot pie causes filling to run. Allow pies to cool completely for clean slices and proper set.