14 Tennessee Pie Houses Where Slices Come Warm From Cast-Iron Pans
Tennessee has a way of making pie feel like a hug. Every town seems to have that one bakery where the smell of butter and sugar pulls you right through the door.
You’ll spot folks chatting over coffee, deciding between pecan or chess pie, and somehow ending up with a slice of both. It’s the kind of simple comfort that just fits life here.
These bakeries across Tennessee aren’t trying to impress anyone, they’re just doing what they’ve always done best: baking pies that taste like family, tradition, and a good reason to slow down for a minute.
1. Baked On 8th, Nashville
Walking into this East Nashville bakery feels like stepping into your neighbor’s kitchen, where something sweet is always in the oven. The pies here rotate with the seasons, so you might find blackberry one week and peach the next.
Cast-iron skillets give the crusts that golden, buttery edge that’s hard to achieve any other way. I’ve watched them pull pies straight from the oven, and the smell alone is worth the trip.
They don’t rush the process, and you can taste the care in every bite. Portions are generous without being wasteful.
2. Merridee’s Breadbasket, Franklin
This Franklin favorite has been serving up fresh-baked goods since the 1980s, and their pies remain a top draw. You’ll find classics like chess pie and coconut cream alongside seasonal fruit options that change throughout the year.
The crust is always flaky, never soggy, which tells you they know what they’re doing. Locals line up early on weekends because pies sell out fast.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with plenty of seating if you want to enjoy your slice on-site. Their coffee pairs perfectly with a mid-morning pie break.
3. The Loveless Cafe, Nashville
Famous for biscuits and country cooking, this Nashville landmark also bakes some of the finest pies in the region. Chocolate cream and buttermilk pies are standouts, though the fruit options never disappoint either.
Everything here feels authentically Southern, from the checkered tablecloths to the friendly service. Pies are baked daily, and they don’t skimp on filling or flavor.
I’ve brought out-of-town guests here more than once, and they always leave impressed. The portions are substantial, so come hungry or plan to share a slice with someone special.
4. Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop, Knoxville
Specializing in personal-sized pies, this Knoxville shop lets you enjoy a whole pie without the guilt of leftovers. They bake everything fresh daily, and the variety is impressive, from lemon icebox to caramel apple.
The mini cast-iron pans give each pie a crispy, caramelized edge that’s tough to beat. Service is quick and friendly, making it easy to grab a pie on your way home.
You can also order larger pies for gatherings, and they’re always a hit. The quality stays consistent no matter which flavor you choose.
5. Muddy’s Bake Shop, Memphis
Memphis knows good food, and Muddy’s delivers on that reputation with pies that balance sweetness and texture perfectly. Their menu includes both traditional and creative flavors, so there’s always something new to try.
The crust is buttery and holds up well, even under generous amounts of filling. They also offer vegan options, which is a nice touch for those with dietary preferences.
I appreciate that they don’t overdo the sugar, letting the natural flavors shine through. The shop itself has a quirky, artsy vibe that makes the visit even more enjoyable.
6. The Apple Barn & Cider Mill / Apple Barn Village, Sevierville
Nestled near the Smoky Mountains, this spot is all about apples, and their pies showcase that focus beautifully. You can watch cider being pressed while waiting for your slice, which adds to the whole experience.
The apple pies are baked with fruit picked right from the orchard, so freshness is never a question. Cinnamon and spice balance perfectly, and the crust has that homemade quality you can’t fake.
It’s a popular stop for tourists, but locals know to visit during weekdays for a quieter experience. The village setting makes it feel like a day trip worth taking.
7. Magpies Bakery, Knoxville
Known for creative flavors and high-quality ingredients, Magpies brings a modern touch to traditional pie-making. Their rotating menu means you’ll always find something different, from bourbon chocolate to seasonal berry blends.
The crusts are made from scratch daily, and the fillings are never too sweet or too bland. I’ve tried several flavors over the years, and none have disappointed.
The bakery has a relaxed, neighborhood feel that makes it easy to linger over coffee and pie. They also sell whole pies if you want to take one home for later.
8. Dutch Maid Bakery & Café, Tracy City
Tucked away in Tracy City, this bakery has been serving the community since the 1950s, and their pies remain as good as ever. Coconut cream and chess pies are customer favorites, with fillings that are rich but not overwhelming.
The café atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, perfect for a leisurely afternoon break. I’ve stopped here on road trips more than once, and it never disappoints.
They also serve sandwiches and soups if you want something savory before your pie. The staff treats everyone like family, which adds to the charm.
9. Tennessee Cobbler Company, Nashville
Specializing in cobblers and fruit pies, this Nashville spot brings a homestyle approach to every baked good. The cast-iron presentation keeps everything warm and gives the crust that crispy edge everyone loves.
Seasonal fruits are highlighted, so you’ll find peach in summer and apple in fall, each one perfectly spiced. Portions are hearty, and the flavors are straightforward and satisfying.
The shop is small but efficient, with friendly staff who know their pies inside and out. It’s a great stop if you’re craving something sweet without all the fuss.
10. Lynnville Fried Pie Company, Lynnville
Fried pies are a Southern tradition, and this Lynnville shop does them better than just about anyone. The dough is tender and flaky, fried to a perfect golden brown that’s never greasy.
Flavors range from classic apple and peach to more adventurous options like chocolate and sweet potato. Each pie is hand-held, making them perfect for eating on the go or enjoying with a cold glass of milk.
I always grab a few extra to take home because they reheat beautifully. The shop itself is charming and unpretentious, just the way it should be.
11. Pie Sensations, Columbia
Columbia’s Pie Sensations lives up to its name with a wide variety of flavors that go beyond the usual offerings. From key lime to peanut butter silk, there’s something here for every palate.
The crusts are consistently flaky, and the fillings are balanced in sweetness and texture. They also offer sugar-free options, which is thoughtful for those watching their intake.
The shop is clean and well-organized, making it easy to see all your choices at once. Staff are helpful without being pushy, and they’ll let you sample before you buy.
12. Lambert’s Southern Pies & Bake Shop, Maryville
Maryville’s Lambert’s brings Southern hospitality and baking expertise together in every pie they make. Their buttermilk and pecan pies are particularly popular, with fillings that are rich but not cloying.
Everything is baked fresh daily, and you can taste the difference that makes. The shop has a friendly, neighborhood feel that makes you want to come back regularly.
I’ve ordered whole pies from here for family gatherings, and they always get compliments. The prices are reasonable, and the quality is consistently high.
13. Julia’s Homestyle Bakery, Murfreesboro
Julia’s brings a homestyle touch to everything they bake, and their pies are no exception. Classic flavors like cherry and apple are done right, with crusts that are tender and fillings that taste like they came from someone’s kitchen.
The bakery itself is warm and inviting, with the smell of fresh-baked goods greeting you at the door. Portions are generous, and the prices won’t break the bank.
They also offer whole pies that are perfect for taking to potlucks or family dinners. Service is friendly and efficient, making every visit pleasant.
14. Carver’s Orchard & Applehouse Restaurant, Cosby
Located in the foothills near the Smokies, Carver’s Orchard specializes in apple-based treats, and their pies are legendary. The apples come straight from the orchard, so you know they’re as fresh as it gets.
The crust is buttery and flaky, and the filling has just the right amount of cinnamon and sugar. It’s a popular stop for tourists, but the quality never suffers despite the crowds.
I’ve visited during apple season, and watching the orchard in action makes the pie taste even better. The restaurant also serves meals if you want something savory first.