Celebrate National Pie Day in Franklin and Williamson County

Celebrate National Pie Day in Franklin and Williamson County

National Pie Day, celebrated annually on January 23rd, is the ultimate excuse to dive into one of America’s favorite desserts. From fruit-filled classics to rich cream pies and even savory pot pies, this day is all about honoring the versatility and timeless appeal of pie. 

A Slice of History

Pie has a long and fascinating history. Believed to have originated with the ancient Egyptians, pies were initially made using oats, wheat, rye, or barley to create a crust that encased fillings of honey or other ingredients. The idea spread to the Greeks, who made pastry shells filled with meat, and later to the Romans, who added their own twist by incorporating fruits and spices. Pies eventually made their way to England, where they evolved into the iconic meat pies of medieval times. Colonists brought these recipes to America, where pies took on new forms as settlers adapted them to native ingredients like pumpkins, apples, and berries.

Tennessee shares a special connection to pie through its official State Pie: pumpkin pie. In its earliest form, this iconic dessert involved baking the fruit whole, stuffed with apples, spices, and sugar. Over time, it evolved into the creamy, spiced dessert we know and love today.

In 1975, National Pie Day was established by Charlie Papazian, a nuclear engineer and pie enthusiast from Colorado, who chose his birthday, January 23, to honor this beloved dessert. Since 1986, the American Pie Council has sponsored the day, encouraging pie lovers across the country to bake, buy, and savor their favorite flavors.

So, whether you’re baking one from scratch, picking up a favorite from a local Franklin bakery, or enjoying a slice after dinner in Brentwood, National Pie Day is a great chance to celebrate pie’s rich history and delicious legacy!

Fun Ways to Celebrate National Pie Day

Celebrate National Pie Day by sharing the joy of pie with friends, family, and a little creativity. Here are some fun ways to make the occasion extra special:

Host a Pie Potluck: Invite friends and family to bring their favorite pies to share. Set up a tasting table and let everyone vote on their favorites.

Organize a Pie Contest: Turn the kitchen into a competitive arena with a bake-off to see who can craft the ultimate pie. Consider categories like “Most Creative,” “Best Crust,” or “Best Overall.”

Try a Pie-Making Party: Gather a group and spend the day baking together. Provide various fillings and toppings so everyone can create their unique pie masterpiece.

Bake a Pie to Give: Share the sweetness by delivering a homemade pie to a neighbor, friend, or someone in need.

Of course, the simplest and most delicious way to celebrate is to eat some pie! Whether you savor it warm with a scoop of ice cream or straight from the fridge, National Pie Day is all about enjoying this tasty symbol of comfort and hospitality.

Where to Find the Best Pies: Bakeries in Franklin and Williamson County, TN

Williamson County is home to a variety of incredible bakeries, each offering its own take on freshly baked pies. Whether you’re in the mood for classic flavors, innovative creations, or a pie to take home and enjoy later, these local spots have you covered. 

Merridee’s Breadbasket

Located in downtown Franklin, Merridee’s Breadbasket is a local favorite for fresh-baked sweets. Here, every day is a celebration of pie, with a rotating selection of flavors baked fresh daily. Each pie is made with homemade crusts and real fruit fillings. On Thursday, January 23rd, Merridee’s will showcase two customer favorites: apple pie and chess pie.

For those who want to satisfy a pie craving whenever it strikes, Merridee’s freezes a selection of pies daily, making it easy to enjoy a fresh-baked treat at home anytime.

Papa C Pies

Celebrate National Pie Day and say farewell to a beloved local treasure. Papa C Pies, a Brentwood-based bakery known for its from-scratch family recipe creations, is closing its doors on January 25, 2025, after 15 years of serving the community.

This is your last chance to savor their famous pies, including the signature buttermilk pie and indulgent chocolate chess pie. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their baked goods, now is the time to pick up one of their homemade pies and give this beloved bakery the send-off it deserves.

Puffy Muffin Bakery & Restaurant

Puffy Muffin in Brentwood, TN, is a well-known spot for homemade meals and baked goods. Their offerings include everything from sandwiches and salads to quiches, casseroles, and grab-and-go items for busy schedules. They also serve breakfast dishes like scones and cinnamon rolls, alongside an assortment of cookies, cakes, and specialty desserts.

Puffy Muffin’s pies are a standout on their menu. From classic flavors to unique options like the Coconut Cream Pie Tart, each pie is made with high-quality ingredients and baked from scratch. In addition to their regular offerings, they often create seasonal pies, making it a great place to stop by for something special throughout the year.

The Southern Baking Co.

Brand new to Spring Hill, The Southern Baking Co. brings a fresh take on baked goods, including pastries, desserts, baked bread, and, of course, pies. They reimagine classic favorites with a modern twist and cater to a variety of dietary needs by offering gluten-free options. While their full menu is still on the way, their lineup already features options like sweet potato pie and pecan pie.

Celebrate National Pie Day by stopping by this new Williamson County bakery and supporting a local business. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy pie and welcome them to the community!

Where to Enjoy After-Dinner Pie: Restaurants in Franklin and Williamson County, TN

For those who want to pair their pie with a hearty meal, the restaurants in Franklin and Williamson County serve up tasty options. These local favorites offer Southern classics and end every meal on a sweet note with their signature pies. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot for comfort food or a more refined dining experience, these restaurants have something to satisfy your pie cravings.

Bishop’s Meat & Three 

At Bishop’s Meat & Three in Franklin, they specialize in traditional Southern meals, with a variety of meats and scratch-made sides that reflect the flavors of the family kitchen. 

In addition to their savory menu items, Bishop’s offers house-made desserts, including chocolate fudge pie. This flavorful treat, along with other favorites like chess pie and pecan pie, provides a sweet conclusion to a hearty meal.

Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant

Puckett’s, with its classic comfort food and down-home atmosphere, is a favorite place for gathering with family and friends. Known for hearty dishes and warm hospitality, it’s a go-to spot for a satisfying meal. 

While not technically a pie, Puckett’s cobbler is a standout dessert. Their Cobbler of the Day is made fresh daily and served warm with a scoop of Hattie’s vanilla ice cream. For chocolate lovers, Jan’s Chocolate Cobbler is a must-try, with a rich chocolate base topped with ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar

Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar, located in Cool Springs, offers a menu of scratch-made cuisine featuring dishes crafted with fresh ingredients that highlight classic flavors.

Their dessert selection is enticing, with indulgent options like Mississippi Mud Pie with a cappuccino mousse on a crumbly chocolate cookie crust, and Brown Butter Pecan Pie with a rich dark chocolate sauce drizzle. Whichever you choose, these pies are a sweet way to celebrate National Pie Day.

Red Pony Restaurant

Located on Main Street, Red Pony Restaurant has been a staple of the downtown Franklin fine dining scene since 2006. This upscale restaurant’s dinner menu showcases the restaurant’s dedication to quality and creativity.

When it’s time for dessert, try their Sweet Potato Pie, topped with cane syrup Chantilly, pepita brittle, and toasted fluff. It’s a decadent way to finish your meal at Red Pony.

Barbara’s Home Cooking

Since 1977, Barbara’s Home Cooking has been serving traditional Southern meals in a homey atmosphere. Located in Franklin, this family-owned restaurant features an ever-changing selection of daily entrées, including favorites like fried chicken, country fried steak, and chicken casserole. 

Dessert is a highlight at Barbara’s, with offerings such as fudge, pecan, and chess pie.  These classic treats, made from scratch, are the ideal way to round out a comforting meal.

McCreary’s Iris Pub

Who says pie has to be sweet? At McCreary’s Irish Pub pie isn’t dessert—it’s the star of the main course. Their Dublin Pot Pie features a creamy, homemade mixture of shredded chicken breast and vegetables, including peas, carrots, potatoes, and corn, all baked in a flaky crust. Or try their Cottage Pie, a McCreary’s original recipe, made with seasoned ground beef in a gravy base with peas, carrots, and celery, topped with mashed potatoes and cheese. 

These savory dishes prove that pie is versatile enough to be a satisfying main dish, not just a sweet treat!

Make Every Bite Count on National Pie Day

National Pie Day is a celebration of one of America’s most beloved desserts and a great reason to go ahead and indulge in a slice (or two) of pie. Here in Tennessee, it’s also a chance to honor the state’s official pie: pumpkin pie. Whether you’re savoring this classic, enjoying a pecan pie, or discovering inventive creations like sweet potato pie with toasted fluff, National Pie Day is all about appreciating the comfort and tradition that pie brings to the table.

So, mark your calendar for January 23rd, explore the bakeries and restaurants in Franklin and Williamson County, and enjoy the sweet tradition of National Pie Day. After all, the best way to celebrate is as simple as it is delicious: eat some pie!

Savoring the Best of Franklin and Williamson County

As you enjoy your pie adventures, take a moment to appreciate Franklin, TN, which was recently recognized by Southern Living as one of The South’s Best Cities on the Rise. Its vibrant culinary scene, filled with standout bakeries and restaurants, makes it the ideal place to celebrate National Pie Day.

For more ways to enjoy the flavors of Franklin and Williamson County this season, check out Soup Season: Where to Find the Best Soups in Franklin, Brentwood, and Williamson County.