Pie is one of those classic comfort foods that just feels right, no matter the season. From flaky crusts to rich fillings, there’s something magical about slicing into a pie and sharing it with friends or family.
But not all pies are the same. Some are fruity and fresh, others creamy and cool, and some come packed with savory goodness.
This guide breaks down the many types of pie out there. If you’ve ever stood in front of a dessert table wondering what kind of pie you’re actually looking at, you’re in the right place.
What Is Pie?
Pie is a dish made with a crust and a filling, which is the simple version. It can be sweet or savory, served hot or cold, filled with fruit, meat, or custard.
When you’re biting into a buttery slice of apple pie or a flaky chicken pot pie, it’s all about comfort and flavor wrapped in dough.
Types of Pies by Crust Style
What holds it all together and makes each pie unique?
Open-Face Pies
Just a bottom crust and plenty of exposed filling. These pies are fresh, bright, and beautiful on display.
- Lemon tart
- Mixed berry tart
- Rustic galette
- Chocolate ganache tart
Best for: fruit-forward pies and silky textures.
Double-Crust Pies
Top and bottom crusts come together to seal in the filling. Classic, cozy, and totally satisfying.
- Apple pie
- Cherry pie
- Chicken pot pie
- Peach pie
Think grandma’s kitchen and holidays.
Lattice-Top Pies
Woven strips of dough across the top create that charming, homespun look. The filling peeks through for extra appeal.
- Strawberry rhubarb pie
- Blueberry pie
- Raspberry peach pie
They’re a bit of a showstopper at any gathering.
⚪ Crumb-Topped Pies
Instead of a full crust, these get a sweet, buttery crumble made with flour, sugar, and butter. Sometimes there’s oats or nuts for extra crunch.
- Dutch apple pie
- Blueberry crumb pie
- Peach crumble pie
Best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Types of Pies by Filling
The heart of any pie is what’s inside: sweet, savory, smooth, or fruity. Here are the most common filling types.
Fruit Pies
Classic and loved for a reason. These pies are packed with fresh or cooked fruit, and often served warm with a flaky crust.
- Apple pie
- Cherry pie
- Peach pie
- Blueberry pie
- Strawberry rhubarb pie
Perfect for holidays and everyday cravings.
Nut Pies
Rich, sweet, and a little crunchy. Nut pies are often made with a sugar-based syrup and roasted nuts.
- Pecan pie
- Walnut pie
- Chocolate pecan pie
A favorite for fall and festive dinners.
Cream Pies
Cool and silky, cream pies are usually chilled and topped with whipped cream or meringue.
- Chocolate cream pie
- Coconut cream pie
- Banana cream pie
- Peanut butter pie
Sweet and smooth with no baking required.
Savory Pies
Not all pies are sweet. These are hearty, filling, and often served as a meal.
- Chicken pot pie
- Shepherd’s pie
- Beef and mushroom pie
- Vegetable pie
Comfort food at its finest.
Cheese & Custard Pies
These pies are soft, creamy, and often served cold. They can be sweet or savory depending on the recipe.
- Classic cheesecake (yes, it’s technically a pie!)
- Ricotta pie
- Sweet cheese pie
- Quiche
A smooth slice of something special.
Types of Pies by Serving Temperature
Hot from the oven or cool and creamy, how a pie is served makes all the difference.
Served Warm or Hot
These pies are best enjoyed straight from the oven or gently warmed. The filling is usually cooked, gooey, and deeply flavorful.
- Apple pie
- Chicken pot pie
- Pecan pie
- Shepherd’s pie
Serve with a scoop of ice cream or creamy mashed potatoes, depending on the pie.
❄️ Served Chilled or Cold
These pies are all about smooth textures and refreshing flavors. No baking required, and they’re often made ahead of time.
- Key lime pie
- Banana cream pie
- No-bake cheesecake
- Coconut cream pie
Ideal for summer days, backyard gatherings, or anytime you want something light and cool.
Still thinking about dessert? If you’re into sweet pie flavors, you’ll probably enjoy learning about the most popular types of donuts. It’s a fun mix of classic and creative options worth exploring.
A Brief History of Pie
Pie has a history as rich as its fillings. The earliest versions appeared in ancient Egypt, where honey and oats were wrapped in crude dough. Later, the Greeks and Romans developed more refined crusts, often using meat or seafood inside.
In medieval Europe, pies became popular as a way to preserve food. These early pies weren’t always meant to be eaten; the crusts were thick and used mainly as containers.
Over time, techniques evolved, and pies became softer, tastier, and more diverse. When European settlers brought pie-making traditions to the Americas, it quickly became a symbol of home cooking.
Classic American favorites like apple, pumpkin, and pecan pies took root and grew into cultural icons. Today, pie is more than a dish, it’s a connection to history, tradition, and comfort across generations.
After reading about all these types of pies, you might need something light and funny. Check out the best food puns to add a little humor to your next dessert talk.
