Pies have always been my comfort food. There’s just something so satisfying about creating that perfect crust. So whenever I’m in need of some inspiration, I turn to my favorite pie cookbooks.
Each book brings something unique to the table—whether it’s beautiful photos, detailed technique descriptions, or super creative recipes.
So here’s my top pie cookbook picks.
My Top Picks for the Best Pie Cookbooks
The Book on Pie
By Erin Jeanne McDowell
This book is just full of beautiful color photos! I also love the technique sections—they’ll tell you everything you need to know.
And this book doesn’t just stick to the basics, there’s plenty of experimental stuff, like flavoring the dough for different effects.
There’s some great twists on classic pie recipes here. I especially love the Sour Cherry Pie recipe—the inspiration for my very own Cherry Crumble Pie.
And then there’s my absolute fave—Caramel Earl Grey Custard in a Ginger Snap Crumb Crust.
Everything in this book is just so good. Check out the author’s “Bake it up a Notch” YouTube videos—they’re also very informative.
Sister Pie: The Recipes and Stories of a Big-Hearted Bakery in Detroit
By Lisa Ludwinski
I was really touched by the story of this homegrown pie bake shop in Detroit, inspired by two sisters. This book is beloved by many Michiganders, and I think it deserves a spot on your shelf too!
You’ll learn the secrets behind the recipes served at the Sister Pie bakery, with chapters dedicated to using seasonal ingredients. Think fresh berries in the spring; and apples, pears, and grapes for fall recipes.
The bakery is truly committed to local produce and flavors—I find it so inspiring. Plus, there’s not just pies but also amazing cookie, breakfast, and salad recipes.
Pieometry: Modern Tart Art and Pie Design for the Eye and the Palate
By Lauren Ko
Lauren Ko creates incredible pie art, and her designs are so meticulous and beautiful that they can seem a little daunting. But for a special occasion like Thanksgiving, I think the extra effort is worth it.
Any math nerd or design enthusiast would love this pie cookbook. I tried recreating the cover design for my apple pie last Thanksgiving, and it was a hit—my guests loved it!
Just a heads-up, this book is more for advanced bakers, but it’s definitely worth it if you love a challenge.
The Pie and Pastry Bible
By Rose Levy Beranbaum
The recipes in this book are definitely involved, but they can be simplified if you don’t have the time.
It’s very well written, and the recipes have definitely been thoroughly tested. I adapted one for my Flaky All-Butter Pie Crust Recipe.
The main advantage of this book is the technique descriptions. They’re incredibly well detailed and nothing is missed.
There’s just so many tidbits of knowledge that makes everything easier—like keeping a lemon meringue pie from weeping or getting a nice crisp bottom crust on a fruit pie.
There’s a good mix of beginner and advanced techniques. I recommend this book if you really want the insider knowledge on baking pies.
The Four & Twenty Blackbirds Pie Book
By Melissa and Emily Elsen
This pie cookbook was written by the two women who own the Four & Twenty Blackbirds bakery in Brooklyn, and it features beautiful seasonal pie recipes.
I love how the pies are organized by season—from Salted Caramel Apple to Green Chili Chocolate and Black Currant Lemon Chiffon, there’s something special for every time of year.
The flavors are modern and creative, and there’s also a great techniques section that gives an overview of the basics.
Pie: 300 Tried-and-True Recipes for Delicious Homemade Pie
By Ken Haedrich
Here you’ll find an impressive collection of 300 sweet and savory pie recipes.
There’s so many pie recipes in this book, it’s incredible. It includes crusts, custards, turnovers, and more—I think it’s fair to call it a “pie bible.”
The only downside for me is the lack of photos, but the recipes and writing is solid. If you don’t need the visual aid, and want lots of recipes, this book is a winner.
First Prize Pies
By Allison Kave
This pie cookbook is unique because the pies are organized by month—so it’s really fun to use throughout the year.
It’s written by a hobbyist who then went on to win prizes. That means the writing is really quite easy to understand and everything is explained well—it’s aimed at amateur bakers.
And there’s some truly inventive pies here. How about Bourbon Ginger Pecan, or Root Beer Float Pie? Of course, it’s got the classics, too.
I love the creativity here. Plus, the photos are beautiful and really add to the experience.
The New Pie: Modern Techniques for the Classic American Dessert
By Chris Taylor and Paul Arguin
For a scientific approach to pie baking, The New Pie cookbook is perfect if you love experimenting.
It features some really unique ideas—Blueberry-Maple with a wood-grain lattice, King Fluffernutter, and Pie of the Tiger are just a few examples. And the photography is amazing.
The recipes are well-done and detailed, though I found the pacing a bit varied. If you’re looking for a twist on classic pies, this is the book for you.
Justice of the Pies: Sweet and Savory Pies, Quiches, and Tarts
By Maya-Camille Broussard
This book focuses on creative and modern flavor combinations, and I really appreciate the depth of flavors—these pies are true “flavor bombs.”
There’s some great recipes, like Salted Caramel Peach Pie and Brandied Banana Butterscotch Pie. There’s also a great section on quiches—the most underrated of pies.
Maya-Camille launched this book in honor of her father, and the heartfelt stories she shares really add a special touch.
Pie Camp: The Skills You Need to Make Any Pie You Want
By Kate McDermott
For learning the basics of pie crusts, this book is perfect. It’s great for building your “pie confidence,” and even has plenty of gluten-free options.
The “master” recipes are a great foundation for making all kinds of pies, and the photography is stunning.
I love how straightforward the advice is, and the step-by-step guidance makes it easy to feel creative and confident in the kitchen.
Art of the Pie: A Practical Guide to Homemade Crusts, Fillings, and Life
By Kate McDermott
This practical guide is just as much about the joy of baking as it is about perfecting your pie-making skills. It was named one of the best cookbooks of 2016 by several publications, and it’s easy to see why.
The recipes range from Apple Pie to Banana Rum Caramel Coconut and Chicken Pot pie. The instructions are clear, and the photography is luscious—definitely a go-to pie book.
Pie Squared: Irresistibly Easy Sweet & Savory Slab Pies
By Cathy Barrow
Slab pies—the ultimate crowd pleaser! This pie cookbook has 75 recipes for both sweet and savory slab pies—like Spinach, Gorgonzola, and Walnut, and Sour Cream Peach Melba.
I love the decoration tips—sometimes “glamming up” slab pies can be difficult, but this book has some great ideas.
The instructions are definitely easy-to-follow. I love the straightforward approach and how fun it is to make these big, shareable pies. This is a great one for big families.
Pie Recipes and Others You’ll Love
Here are a few more nice bakes to try if you love making pies and other delicious treats:
- Simple All-butter Pie Crust Recipe – My foolproof all-butter pie crust is super flaky and ready for any filling!
- Cherry Crumble Pie – My special recipe has a sweet-tart cherry filling with a unique crumbly, buttery topping.
- Caramel Hand Pies – This bake box will have you whipping up these delights in no time!
- Spiced Apple Cheesecake – A seasonal treat, this creamy cheesecake has spiced apples and a crunchy walnut crust.
- Lemon Scones with Lavender – Light, fragrant scones with a hint of lemon and lavender.
