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7 min
10/03/2026
Pies are one of the most loved comfort foods around the world. From sweet fruit-filled desserts to savoury meat-based classics, these baked dishes are slowly becoming staples in many culinary traditions. Whether it is the iconic apple pie from the United States or the shepherd’s pie from the United Kingdom, each dish reflects the ingredients and cooking traditions of its region.
This article looks at ten favourite pies from around the world that you can recreate in your own kitchen, on World Pi Day. Dive deeper to know more.
Pies have been part of global culinary traditions for centuries. The basic concept of pie is to encase ingredients in pastry and bake. This process dates back to ancient civilisations, where crusts were used to preserve and cook fillings. Over time, pie recipes evolved differently across cultures. Some regions focused on sweet fruit fillings, while others developed savoury pies packed with meats, vegetables, and rich gravies.
Today, pies remain popular because they have comfort, versatility, and creativity. You can experiment with seasonal fruits, proteins, and spices while adapting recipes as per your own tastes. Since World Pi Day 2026 is approaching on March 14, learn about pies from the culinary world with multiple variations. Although the mathematical symbol is constant, the culinary pies have varieties that will ensure your taste buds are satisfied.
Very few desserts are as iconic as apple pie. Made with sliced apples, cinnamon, sugar, and butter enclosed in a flaky pastry crust, this classic pie is all about home-style baking in the United States. The filling of this pie balances sweet and tart flavours, and the crust provides a crisp and buttery texture. Apple pie is often served warm with vanilla ice cream, which makes it a timeless comfort dessert.
Unlike many sweet pies, shepherd’s pie is a savoury comfort meal. It is traditionally made with minced lamb cooked with vegetables and gravy, and topped with creamy mashed potatoes and then baked until it turns golden. The combination of hearty filling and fluffy topping makes this pie a staple in British home cooking.
Chicken pot pie is a comforting dish with tender chicken, vegetables, and creamy sauce enclosed in a flaky pastry crust. This dish is popular in North American households and is known for its rich filling and satisfying texture. It is often prepared as a one-dish meal perfect for family dinners.
A traditional French-Canadian pie, tourtiere is typically made with minced pork or beef seasoned with spices such as cloves and cinnamon. This savoury pie is especially popular during holiday seasons and family gatherings in the Canadian province of Quebec.
Another British classic is steak and kidney pie. The filling consists of slow-cooked beef and kidney in a thick gravy, covered with pastry and baked until golden brown. The dish is often served with mashed potatoes or vegetables, making it a hearty comfort food.
For a refreshing dessert option, key lime pie is a standout. Originating from Florida, this pie has a tangy filling made with lime juice, egg yolks, and condensed milk set in a biscuit or graham cracker crust. The bright citrus flavour makes it a popular summer dessert.
Banoffee pie is a modern classic, which has bananas, toffee, whipped cream, and a biscuit crust. The dessert gained popularity because of its rich caramel flavour and creamy texture, making it a favourite in many cafes and bakeries.
A seasonal favourite, Pumpkin Pie is particularly associated with autumn celebrations in the United States. The pie has a spiced pumpkin custard filling flavoured with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Its smooth texture and warm spices make it a comforting dessert during cooler months.
Although technically closer to a pie-like casserole, Pastel de Choclo is a beloved South American dish. It features a savoury filling of meat, onions, olives, and boiled eggs topped with a sweet corn mixture that bakes into a golden crust.
In Australia, the classic Australian Meat Pie is a national favourite. These small, handheld pies are filled with minced meat and gravy enclosed in a flaky pastry shell. Often enjoyed as a quick snack or street food, meat pies are commonly served with tomato sauce and are a staple at sporting events and bakeries.
Pies are popular throughout the world because of their adaptability. This single dish can transform from a sweet dessert to a savoury main course depending on the ingredients used. Across cultures, pies also represent comfort and tradition. Many recipes have been passed down through generations, making them a nostalgic part of family meals and gatherings. For home bakers, pies give endless possibilities, right from experimenting with seasonal fruits to creating hearty savoury fillings. Because of these reasons pies continue to remain a beloved dish around the world.
