13 Mouthwatering Pies Around the World That Will Leave You Craving More – Ranked!
Pies are a universal comfort food, celebrated across the globe in countless variations. The global cakes, pastries, and sweet pies market is experiencing growth. The market is projected to hit $58.59 billion by 2030 from $42.71 billion in 2023.
The increase in demand for such baked goods, including pies, suggests an appreciation for pie in many parts of the world is growing. Whether you’re a serious foodie or a traveler with a sense of adventure, pie is a tasty way to travel around the world and discover other people’s traditions.
This guide ranks 13 of the world’s most iconic pies. We present an irresistible list according to taste, cultural importance, and uniqueness. Scroll on to see which pies are sure things and why they’re worth your time.
Pecan Pie (USA)
Pecan pie, a Southern classic beloved for its perfectly caramelized filling and crunchy, nutty topping, is taking the top spot. Every buttery, flaky bite of this dessert contains the flavors of the American South.
It’s a treat for those winter holidays, always made with pecans and traditionally with corn syrup and sugar. Enjoy it with a dollop of whipped cream for a truly indulgent experience.
Apple Pie (Various Locations)
Apple pie is arguably one of the most recognized desserts worldwide. It consists of tangy, cinnamon-spiced apples nestled with a golden, flaky pastry crust.
Although we may associate it with American culture, the tart has spread across Europe, from Dutch lattice-topped versions to the French buttery tarte Tatin. It is simple and tastefully warm, earning its spot on this list.
Key Lime Pie (USA)
This Floridian specialty captivates with its zesty lime custard filling contrasted by a sweet graham cracker crust. Key Lime Pie delivers a refreshing balance of sweet and tart so well.
The Florida Keys inspired its bright citrus flavors, and it’s a favorite treat for sunny afternoons. Florida designated Key lime pie as its official state pie in 2006 to recognize its cultural significance.
Meat Pie (Australia & New Zealand)
Meat pie is a savory, hearty handheld snack from Down Under. It is an integral part of Australian and Kiwi food culture and is filled with minced meat, gravy, and sometimes vegetables encased in a buttery crust. It’s as much a meal as a local tradition, found everywhere, from bakeries to football games.
Shepherd’s Pie (Ireland)
Shepherd’s pie is a comforting dish from Ireland and the ultimate cold-weather treat. It has seasoned ground lamb on top of vegetables, such as peas and carrots, and fluffy, golden mashed potatoes. It is delicious and a nostalgic nod to hearty, traditional Irish fare.
Quiche Lorraine (France)
A sophisticated addition from the French, Quiche Lorraine consists of a savory pie filled with a light custard of eggs, cream, and cheese, speckled with crunchy bits of bacon. Served warm or cold, this pie embodies French culinary refinement while remaining approachable and versatile.
Bündner Nusstorte (Switzerland)
This walnut pie comes straight from the Graubünden region in Switzerland and is a decadent masterpiece. With its rich, caramelized nut filling encased in buttery shortcrust pastry, it is as visually stunning as it is indulgent. Add it to a strong cup of coffee or a creamy scoop of ice cream, and it’s the perfect partner.
Bobotie Pie (South Africa)
Cape Town’s flavourful culinary traditions are represented by bobotie. This savory pie is a decadent treat made with spiced meat, chutney, tamarind paste, and dried fruits slathered with baked eggs. It is a unique, savory-sweet pie with a complex, unforgettable flavor that stands out globally.
Spanakopita (Greece)
Spanakopita is a favorite in Greek cuisine (a savory pie made of flaky filo pastry with spinach, feta, and herbs). The creamy filling between its light, crispy layers makes it a must-have to be eaten as a snack or part of a mezze spread.
Pastel de Choclo (Chile)
It is a savory pie with a delightful combination of beef, onions, olives, raisins, boiled eggs, and cream of corn on top. Chilean households have long enjoyed this rustic dish, which delivers comfort and bold flavors in each bite.
Coulibiac (Russia)
This Russian showstopper is a striking fish pie with layers of salmon, rice or buckwheat, mushrooms, onions, and eggs wrapped in golden puff pastry. Coulibiac’s complex assembly and luxurious flavors make it a centerpiece for festive occasions.
Buko Pie (Philippines)
It’s a tropical delight from the Philippines flavored with soft young coconut meat and a creamy custard base covered by a crispy golden crust. Enjoying it as a dessert or a snack isn’t uncommon, and it is a sweet tribute to the country’s coconut wealth.
Stargazy Pie (England)
A quirky Cornish specialty, Stargazy Pie features whole fish arranged with their heads poking through the crust. This dish may look peculiar, but its flaky crust and savory filling of fish, eggs, and mustard make it a fascinating culinary experience for adventurous eaters.
People typically serve the dish during Tom Bawcock’s Eve, celebrated annually on December 23rd in Mousehole.
Explore pies worldwide, from Canada’s Saskatoon Berry Pie to France’s Tarte Tatin and the USA’s classic Pumpkin Pie. These delicious creations have a rich culture behind every bite on show. At the very least, try them at a local bakery or bake one yourself! Add your favorite pies and stories in the comments below.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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