Pie Day to Pi Day: Exploring the Hoosier Pie Trail

Whether you love it or loathe it, winter is here! The longer I live, the more I’ve grown to welcome this time of rest and recovery, devoid of weeds to pull and parties to plan, where the pace of life runs molasses slow. Once our New Years’ resolve loses its momentum and the days stretch on, however, we can admittedly grow a bit melancholy. With that in mind, might I recommend some fun that may just hit the spot…

I’m referring, of course, to pie season, that delicious time that stretches from National Pie Day (January 23rd) to Pi Day, which comes around every March 14th. We could all use a reason to get out of the house during this time, and there’s simply no better excuse than cherry crumb, lemon meringue, and of course, the ever-elegant French silk.

Indiana Foodways Alliance, a non-profit organized to celebrate our state’s culinary heritage, has curated many lists or, “trails,” of independent restaurants and producers of note. Though the Tenderloin Lovers Trail and the Farm to Table Trail are most certainly worth a stroll, my personal favorite is The Hoosier Pie Trail, a marvelous list of destination-worthy locations to grab your favorite slice. 

Hit the trail and see the sights throughout the state when you need some sweet adventure this pie season. We at Edible Indy have compiled our own recommendations close to home, with three spots to indulge in the Indianapolis area, including suggestions from each bakery of their favorite pies.

Pots & Pans Pie Co.

4915 N College Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46205

Owner and pie expert Clarissa Morley recommends the Chocolate Tahini Chess Pie, a chocolate brownie-like indulgence in their flaky, classic lard crust. Also not to be missed is their Sugar Creme Brulee–an elevated twist on our state pie. In addition to their dessert delights are their extensive selection of savory pot pies, including Green Chile Pork, Thai Chicken Curry, Biscuits and Gravy, and Broccoli Cheddar–what better solution could there be for winter meal planning burnout?

My Sugar Pie

40 E Pine St, Zionsville, IN 46077

Though most certainly worth a visit, if you can’t possibly make it out right now this Zionsville institution will ship directly to your door! Garnering national acclaim for their high-quality ingredients, each work of art is made from owner Kelly Maucere’s mother’s pie crust recipe and sent out the door in a glass pie plate. Their handcrafted pies are an absolute delight. With over 40 varieties made to order, choosing a favorite is simply daunting–though, “Mom’s Original Dutch Apple,” seems a winning choice.

The Cake Bake Shop

Broad Ripple: 6515 Carrolton Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220

Carmel: Upper Deck, 799 Hanover Place Suite 260, Carmel, IN 46032

Don’t be distracted by their decadent cakes stacked to monumental heights, their pies are simply not to be ignored. Owner Gwendolyn Rogers recommends two classics: Apple Crumble, with an all-butter crust and layered to high heaven with Granny Smith apples (twelve in each pie, to be exact!) and Key Lime–made from freshly-squeezed limes and topped with Madagascan vanilla bean whipped cream.

Sweet or savory, fruit or cream, these lovely bakeries have something for everyone. Here’s hoping this pie season fills you and your loved ones with joy, sugar, and a healthy dash of spice!