As the holiday season approaches, Las Vegas transforms into a culinary wonderland, particularly when it comes to Thanksgiving pies. Whether you’re a local or visiting, here are some top spots in Las Vegas where you can find pies that will make your Thanksgiving celebration memorable.
1. Freed’s Bakery
Profile: Established in 1959, Freed’s has become a Las Vegas institution. Known for their wide array of baked goods, their pies are a highlight during the holiday season.
Pies:
- Pumpkin Pie: Freed’s classic pumpkin pie features a creamy, spiced filling with a perfectly flaky crust. It’s the epitome of traditional Thanksgiving dessert, with a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon that screams autumn.
- Dutch Apple Pie: This pie is layered with tart Granny Smith apples, sprinkled with cinnamon, and topped with a sweet, crunchy streusel. The balance of flavors makes it a perennial favorite.
Location: Multiple locations across the valley, including a flagship at 9815 S Eastern Ave.
2. Delices Gourmands French Bakery
Profile: A hidden gem for those seeking French pastries with a twist, Delices Gourmands brings a touch of Parisian flair to the desert.
Pies:
- Pecan Pie: This isn’t just any pecan pie; it’s a luxurious blend of buttery, caramelized pecans with a subtle hint of bourbon, all encased in a rich, buttery crust.
- Apple Pie: Their apple pie uses a blend of apples for a complex flavor profile, with a buttery crust that’s both crisp and tender, offering a slice of France in every bite.
Location: 3400 S Jones Blvd
3. Paina Café
Profile: Specializing in Filipino and Pacific Island cuisine, Paina Café introduces unique flavors to the Thanksgiving table.
Pies:
- Ube Custard Pie: A stunning purple hue from ube (purple yam), this pie combines the earthy sweetness of ube with a creamy custard, surprising guests with its exotic yet comforting taste.
- Chocolate Haupia Pie: A fusion of chocolate and coconut, the haupia (coconut pudding) layer provides a tropical twist to the rich chocolate base, making it a refreshing yet indulgent option.
Locations: Chinatown and Enterprise areas.
4. The Pie Hole
Profile: Famous for its motto “Happiness, one slice at a time,” The Pie Hole offers a variety of pies in a quaint setting downtown.
Pies:
- Pumpkin Cream Cheese Pie: A twist on the classic, this pie has layers of pumpkin filling and cream cheese, providing a creamy texture with a tangy finish.
- Salted Caramel Apple Pie: This pie features apples enveloped in a silky caramel sauce, with a sprinkle of sea salt to cut through the sweetness, all under a golden, flaky crust.
Location: 12 E California Ave
5. Boom Bang Fine Foods & Cocktails
Profile: Under the guidance of Top Chef alum Elia Aboumrad-Page, Boom Bang elevates the dessert experience with innovative flavors.
Pies:
- Cardamom Pumpkin Pie: This pie stands out with its cardamom-spiced pumpkin filling, served on a graham cracker crust with a dollop of cardamom whipped cream, offering an aromatic twist to the traditional recipe.
Location: Inside the Mabel’s Mansion, Downtown Las Vegas
6. Pop n Pies
Profile: Created by Andrea McLean, a former Bouchon alum, Pop n Pies focuses on nostalgia with a modern twist.
Pies:
- Maple Pecan Pie: Sweetened with real maple syrup, this pecan pie offers a deep, rich flavor profile, with a crust that’s both buttery and robust enough to hold the gooey filling.
Location: Order by email or Instagram DM for pickup, typically at 3850 East Flamingo Road.
Conclusion
Las Vegas, known for its extravagance, doesn’t disappoint when it comes to Thanksgiving pies. Each of these spots offers something unique, from traditional flavors with a twist to completely new taste experiences. Whether you’re in the mood for the comforting embrace of a classic apple pie or looking to adventure with a tropical-inspired dessert, these bakeries and cafes provide an array of options to satisfy any palate. Remember, ordering in advance is often necessary as these pies are in high demand during the holiday season. Enjoy your Thanksgiving with a slice of Vegas magic on your plate!