Celebrate National Pie Day with Perfect Coffee and Pie Pairings
Few things in life bring the same level of comfort as pie and a cup of specialty coffee. One is warm and satisfying, often filled with nostalgia, while the other is bold, aromatic, and invigorating.
Together, they create a pairing that can elevate any day—and what better day to indulge in this timeless combination than National Pie Day?
While baking your own pie and brewing coffee at home has its charm, this year, why not take the opportunity to explore your local specialty coffee shop? Supporting small businesses isn't just a way to celebrate community—it's also the best way to experience expertly crafted coffee that pairs beautifully with your favorite pie.
Here's a guide to some classic and creative coffee-and-pie pairings to inspire your National Pie Day adventures, whether you're stopping by your neighborhood café or savoring a slice at home.
Classic Pairings for Timeless Flavors
Apple Pie + Medium Roast Coffee
There's nothing more classic than a slice of warm apple pie with a perfectly brewed cup of medium-roast coffee. The bright, citrusy notes of the coffee cut through the sweetness of the apple filling and balance the buttery crust.
Try It: Ask your local barista for a pour-over made with a single-origin coffee from Ethiopia or Kenya. The fruity undertones will complement the apple pie beautifully.
Pumpkin Pie + Spiced Latte
Pumpkin pie isn't just for fall! Its creamy texture and cinnamon-forward spices naturally match a spiced latte or chai-infused coffee. The layers of flavor in the coffee bring out the nutmeg and clove in the pie.
Tip: Support your local shop by asking if they have a house-made spiced latte or chai blend.
Pecan Pie + Bold Dark Roast
Pecan pie's rich, caramelized sweetness demands a coffee that can hold its own. A bold, smoky dark roast is the perfect match, offering depth and balance without overpowering the dessert.
Pro Tip: Many roasters offer single-origin dark roasts with hints of chocolate or nuts—ask for recommendations at your favorite café!
Cherry Pie + Bright Cold Brew
If your cherry pie is tart, it pairs wonderfully with the refreshing acidity of a cold brew. The brightness of the coffee is fruity, which is an excellent balance to the pie's tartness. In contrast, the smooth, chilled texture of the pie enhances the experience.
Local Find: Some specialty coffee shops offer nitro cold brew for an even creamier pairing.
Unique Pairings to Spark Your Taste Buds
Chocolate Cream Pie + Mocha Latte
Double the chocolate, double the delight! A mocha latte enhances chocolate cream pie's rich, velvety flavor while adding a gentle coffee kick. It's a decadent treat perfect for dessert or an afternoon indulgence.
Support Local: Many coffee shops offer signature mochas with unique twists like lavender or chili—don't be afraid to experiment!
Key Lime Pie + Light Roast Coffee
The tangy, citrusy notes of key lime pie are beautifully complemented by a floral, lightly roasted coffee. The delicate flavors of the coffee balance the zesty lime and creamy filling without overpowering it.
Pair It: Look for a single-origin light roast from Central America or Colombia to elevate this pairing.
Blueberry Pie + Vanilla Latte
Blueberry pie is a celebration of sweetness and fruitiness, and a vanilla latte brings a creamy, aromatic counterpart to the table. The vanilla accentuates the natural flavors of the blueberries for a harmonious match.
Local Tip: Ask if your café uses house-made vanilla syrup for an extra-special touch.
Why Celebrate at a Local Coffee Shop?
This National Pie Day, consider visiting a local specialty coffee shop in your neighborhood or in your travels.
Here's why:
Support Small Businesses: Independent coffee shops are the heartbeat of our communities. They inspire the connections we crave. Every purchase helps them thrive and contribute to their local economy, which is especially important to their sustainability and resilience.
Discover New Flavors: Specialty coffee shops source unique, high-quality beans and offer brewing methods you won't find at big chains. Their expertise means you'll experience coffee at its finest—perfect for pie pairings!
Build Connections: On college breaks, three of my closest girlfriends and I would head to our local diner for a cup of coffee and a piece of pie. That was long ago, and specialty coffee shops didn't exist back then. Local coffee shops are gathering places where people share stories and experiences. Pie and coffee are all about connection, so why not enjoy them in a space designed to foster community?
Experience Expert Craftsmanship: Local shops put care and perfection into every cup, from hand-poured lattes to perfectly roasted beans. Pairing this level of craftsmanship with a delicious slice of pie is a match made in culinary heaven.
How to Find the Perfect Local Spot
Not sure where to go? Use tools like Google Maps or Yelp to find highly rated local coffee shops. Look for places that offer a variety of brewing methods and ask the baristas for pairing recommendations—they're often more than happy to share their expertise.
Make It a Tradition
National Pie Day is the perfect excuse to treat yourself, but why not make it a year-round tradition?
Each month, explore a new pie-and-coffee pairing at a different café or bakery. You'll discover hidden gems, support local businesses, and create memorable experiences along the way.
This year, let pie and coffee be your reason to slow down, savor the moment, and enjoy the warmth of your community. After all, life is a little sweeter when shared over a slice and a cup.
Final Sip - What's Your Favorite Pairing?
Happy National Pie Day! 🥧☕ We'd love to hear about your go-to coffee and pie combos! Share your recommendations or tell us about your favorite local spots in the comments. Let's celebrate the magic of pie and coffee together!
In the meantime, stay caffeinated, keep brewing and…
Patty Bonsera is the founder and editor-in-chief of Local Coffee Talk Magazine and host of the Local Coffee Talk Podcast. She combines her love for sharing the stories of specialty coffee and the passionate people behind them with her own love of travel and coffee to foster the connections among coffee enthusiasts, travelers, and local communities. Through her work with the magazine and podcast, she strives to inspire meaningful experiences and celebrate the vibrant culture of specialty coffee, one cup and conversation at a time.
