When it comes to desserts, pies hold a special place in many people’s hearts. Each region in Colorado has its own unique pies, made with love and local ingredients. If you’re a pie lover, or just curious about trying something new, you’ll be delighted by the variety of pies this state has to offer. Let’s take a sweet journey through Colorado and discover the top 10 unique regional pies that you simply must try.
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Pie
Imagine the rich, velvety taste of chocolate, but in a pie form. The Rocky Mountain Chocolate Pie is a local favorite, especially for those with a sweet tooth. This pie is filled with a creamy chocolate mousse and topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings. It’s like having a piece of the Rockies right on your plate. The locals love it for its deep, indulgent flavor that reminds them of the famous Rocky Mountain chocolates.
Palisade Peach Pie
Palisade, a small town in Colorado, is known for its juicy, sweet peaches. The Palisade Peach Pie is a summer favorite, capturing the essence of these ripe fruits. The pie is made with fresh peaches, mixed with a bit of sugar and spices, all encased in a flaky crust. It’s light, refreshing, and the perfect dessert on a warm day. When you take a bite, you’ll taste the freshness of the peaches, as if they were just picked from the tree.
Green Chili Apple Pie
Coloradoans love their green chili, and they’ve found a way to incorporate it into an apple pie! The Green Chili Apple Pie might sound unusual, but it’s a fantastic blend of sweet and spicy. The sweetness of the apples pairs surprisingly well with the mild heat of the green chilies. The crust is buttery and flaky, providing a perfect contrast to the warm, spiced filling. This pie is a must-try for those who enjoy a little adventure with their desserts.
Colorado Mountain Berry Pie
This pie is a celebration of the wild berries that grow in Colorado’s mountains. The Colorado Mountain Berry Pie is made with a mix of raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries, giving it a vibrant color and tart-sweet flavor. The berries are cooked down with sugar to create a juicy filling, which is then encased in a golden, flaky crust. Every bite is bursting with the taste of fresh, wild berries, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Honey Lavender Pie
Inspired by Colorado’s local honey and lavender fields, the Honey Lavender Pie is a true taste of the region. The pie has a light, floral flavor from the lavender, balanced by the sweetness of the honey. The filling is smooth and creamy, almost like a custard, and it’s baked in a tender, buttery crust. This pie is perfect for those who appreciate delicate, subtle flavors and want to try something truly unique.
Pumpkin Pie with a Twist
Pumpkin pie is a classic, but in Colorado, they give it a little twist. The traditional pumpkin pie is spiced up with a hint of bourbon and topped with a crunchy pecan streusel. The bourbon adds a warm, rich depth to the pie, while the pecan topping provides a delightful crunch. It’s the perfect pie for the fall season, combining the familiar taste of pumpkin with some exciting new flavors.
Olathe Sweet Corn Pie
Olathe is known for its sweet corn, and this pie showcases just how versatile corn can be. The Olathe Sweet Corn Pie is a savory-sweet treat, with a filling made from fresh, juicy corn kernels, cream, and a hint of sugar. The pie has a custard-like texture, and the sweetness of the corn really shines through. It’s a unique pie that highlights one of Colorado’s beloved crops.
Colorado Cherry Pie
Cherries might not be the first fruit you think of when it comes to Colorado, but the state produces some incredibly sweet and tart cherries. The Colorado Cherry Pie is made with these local cherries, which are cooked down into a thick, jam-like filling. The pie is then topped with a lattice crust, allowing the vibrant red filling to peek through. It’s a simple pie, but the flavor of the cherries is so intense that it doesn’t need any extra frills.
Blue Spruce Pine Nut Pie
The Blue Spruce Pine Nut Pie is a nod to Colorado’s majestic blue spruce trees and the pine nuts that come from them. This pie is similar to a pecan pie but uses pine nuts instead. The nuts are mixed with a sweet, sticky filling made from brown sugar and honey, then baked in a golden crust. The pine nuts give the pie a unique, slightly earthy flavor, making it a must-try for those who want to experience something truly different.
Almond Custard Pie
Last but not least, we have the Almond Custard Pie. This pie is a creamy, dreamy dessert that combines the delicate flavor of almonds with a rich, smooth custard. The filling is made from almond milk, sugar, eggs, and a touch of almond extract, giving it a light yet indulgent flavor. The pie is baked until the custard is just set, creating a silky-smooth texture that pairs perfectly with the crisp, buttery crust.
Conclusion
Colorado is a state full of surprises, and its pies are no exception. From the sweet and spicy Green Chili Apple Pie to the delicate Honey Lavender Pie, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. These pies not only reflect the local ingredients and flavors of Colorado but also the creativity and passion of its bakers. So, whether you’re a local or just visiting, be sure to try these unique regional pies. You might just find a new favorite!
FAQs
What is the most popular pie in Colorado?
The Palisade Peach Pie is one of the most popular pies in Colorado, especially during the summer when peaches are in season.
Where can I find these unique pies in Colorado?
Many local bakeries and restaurants across Colorado offer these pies, especially in regions known for specific ingredients, like Palisade for peach pies.
Are there any savory pies in Colorado?
Yes, the Olathe Sweet Corn Pie is an example of a savory-sweet pie that highlights Colorado’s famous sweet corn.
What makes the Green Chili Apple Pie unique?
The Green Chili Apple Pie combines the sweetness of apples with the mild heat of green chilies, offering a unique blend of flavors.
Can I make these pies at home?
Yes, many of these pies can be made at home if you have the right ingredients. Recipes for regional pies like the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Pie or Colorado Cherry Pie can be found online or in local cookbooks.