Quick Bites: Pies

The pie of today is nothing like the pies of our ancestors – and thank heaven for that. Most pies from Medieval times were meat pies, later supplanted by dried fruit pies; early American colonialist still appreciated pies mostly for their ability to preserve dried fruit with spices. Then came the American apple pie, and cheap sugar from the Caribbean, and the rest is sweet history. Here are some of the tastiest in the Gables.

Books & Books

A warm pecan pie eaten in the Books & Books Cafe during a late afternoon rainstorm might be the coziest possible way to enjoy such a treat. Our slice ($7) was amazingly soft, sweet, and simple, focused on the naturally sweet, buttery flavor of the pecan. With a wonderful caramelization, a melt-in-your-mouth crust, and a dollop of whipped cream for delectable lightness, Books & Books’ pecan pie is top tier.

265 Aragon Ave.
305.442.4408.
booksandbooks.com

Havana Harry’s

We thought the Havana Harry’s key lime pie ($8.95) would be enough for two people, but it might actually satiate three. This massive slice contains a staggering two inches of sugary key lime tart on a slightly salty graham cracker crust, carefully topped with a whipped cream swirl. We recommend taking bites from bottom to top, ensuring you have a bit of graham cracker, tart, and whipped cream in each.

4612 Le Jeune Rd.
305.661.2622.
havanaharrys.com

Madruga Bakery

Madruga Bakery gets classic apple pie ($7) right where so many others fail. Forget a dry crust that bursts apart the moment you go for a bite. On our slice, the fork sailed through, splitting a crumbly oat cover, traversing the gooey, just-caramelized filling, and exiting at a thin, flaky, and perfectly moist crust. This pie was clearly made on-premises that day, and by a talented chef.

1430 S Dixie Hwy. Ste 117.
305.262.6130.
madrugabakery.com

Let Them Have Cake

At Let Them Have Cake, the pumpkin pie ($45 for a full, $10.95 for a mini) starts with roasted pumpkin, blended with cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and nutmeg for a well-rounded flavor. The filling is soft, but with enough body to hold its own, while the spices are subtle yet noticeable. Slices aren’t part of their usual offerings, but you can expect to see them in the future for around $8.99. 367

Alhambra Cir.
305.200.5575.
letthemhavecakemiami.com

Publix

As Fall ushers in cravings for homey flavors, Publix’s sweet potato pie ($5.99) brings a warm slice of the season to your table. The filling is smooth, subtly spiced, and lets the natural sweetness of the sweet potato peek through. The crust, light and slightly flaky, enhances the creamy texture of the filling effortlessly. This pie captures the essence of a homemade classic – simple, comforting, and ideal for any Thanksgiving spread.

106 Ponce de Leon.
305.442.6018.
publix.com

Explore our other Quick Bites for the best local spots in Coral Gables!