A pie is a baked food in which a pastry shell encloses or supports a filling. Pies appear in both sweet and savory forms and range from single-portion hand pies to large family-size tarts. They are commonly served hot or cold and may be a main course, a side, or a dessert depending on the filling and context.

Structure and common components

The two principal elements of a pie are the pastry and the filling. Pastry types vary from flaky shortcrust to richer puff pastry or crumb crusts, and these determine texture and handling. A pie may have a bottom shell, a top lid, or no top at all; the enclosing crust protects the filling during baking and affects appearance. Fillings include fruit, custards, vegetables, or proteins, often combined with spices, sugars, or sauces.

Typical fillings and forms

  • Sweet fillings: fruit mixes (apple, cherry, berry), custard, cream, and nut-based fillings.
  • Savory fillings: meat pies and pot pies that may contain meat, poultry or fish with vegetables, commonly served with a sauce or gravy.
  • Shapes and portions: pies are usually round or oval but can be rectangular, portable or freeform; the shape is often dictated by baking vessel and tradition.

History and development

Pies have ancient origins: cooks in several early civilizations developed ways to encase food in dough to protect contents and make them portable. In medieval and early modern Europe, sturdy pastry was used to preserve and transport meats and other ingredients. Over time, both sweet and savory recipes evolved, and regional specialities emerged as ingredients, ovens, and tastes changed.

Uses, preparation and storage

Pies are versatile: fruit pies are classic desserts, custard pies are found in many cuisines, and savory pies can be complete meals. Common preparations include blind-baking the crust for wet fillings, sealing double-crust pies, or glazing tops for color. Pies are typically baked until the crust is set; many can be prepared in advance because the pastry helps keep fillings stable. They may be reheated or eaten cold depending on the recipe and preference.

Variations and notable distinctions

Different cultures have distinctive pie traditions—British meat pies and savoury hand pies, American fruit and pumpkin pies, and Australian single-serving meat pies among others. Related dishes include tarts (usually open-topped) and quiches (a savory custard in a pastry shell). Some dishes called "pie" (for example, shepherd's pie) use mashed potato rather than pastry, illustrating how culinary names shift by region and convention. Pies continue to be valued for their adaptability, comforting qualities, and role in celebrations and everyday meals.