20 Pies Commonly Served For Celebratory Occasions
Pies show up at celebrations because they are easy to slice, easy to share, and instantly festive the moment they land on the table. Whether it is a holiday, birthday, potluck, or family gathering, there is a pie that fits the vibe.
You will find bright fruits, creamy classics, and rich chocolate all ready for applause. Get inspired to bring a pie that disappears slice by slice.
1. Apple Pie
Apple pie is the celebration standby that makes every table feel welcoming. The flaky crust shatters just enough, revealing tender apples kissed with cinnamon and a little lemon.
Serve it warm so the aroma drifts across the room and gets people lining up with plates.
You can keep it classic or add a lattice top for extra charm. Vanilla ice cream is practically mandatory, though sharp cheddar has loyal fans too.
It suits birthdays, fall festivals, and casual backyard cookouts without feeling out of place.
If you want a guaranteed crowd pleaser, this is it. Bake ahead, rewarm slightly, and you are set.
The first slice may wobble, but by the second, cheers usually follow.
2. Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin pie is the holiday hero that keeps shining even after Thanksgiving. The filling is silky and gently spiced, with cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg giving that cozy aroma everyone recognizes.
It slices cleanly, sits proudly on a dessert table, and makes your whole place feel festive.
Top each slice with whipped cream and a quick sprinkle of cinnamon for instant polish. If you prefer lighter textures, try a touch of brown sugar and evaporated milk for a balanced sweetness.
It pairs beautifully with coffee after a big meal.
When you want familiar yet special, pumpkin pie delivers. Bake a day ahead and chill for the smoothest cut.
It always feels like a warm holiday hug.
3. Pecan Pie
Pecan pie brings that rich, sweet, celebratory energy people expect at big gatherings. The glossy top hides a gooey, caramel-like center that feels indulgent without needing fancy decoration.
One slice goes a long way, but somehow folks still ask for seconds.
Toast the pecans first for deeper flavor, then balance sweetness with a pinch of salt and a splash of bourbon or vanilla. Serve slightly warm with whipped cream to soften the edges.
It looks stunning on a buffet surrounded by other classics.
If your party needs a dessert that screams special, this is the move. It travels well and holds up beautifully at room temperature.
Expect compliments and requests for the recipe.
4. Cherry Pie
Cherry pie is the bright, sweet tart showstopper that photographs like a dream. The ruby filling peeks through a golden lattice, signaling something festive before you even taste it.
Each slice delivers juicy fruit balanced by buttery crust and a hint of almond.
Use a mix of tart and sweet cherries for dimension, and thicken just enough to keep the juices glossy. A sprinkle of coarse sugar on top gives sparkle and crunch.
It is ideal for birthdays and summer parties where color matters.
Serve slightly warm so the aroma draws a crowd. A scoop of vanilla ice cream turns it into pure celebration.
Expect empty plates and stained, happy smiles.
5. Blueberry Pie
Blueberry pie brings juicy comfort with a pop of summer color. The filling turns gorgeously inky, contrasting against a crisp, golden crust that flakes just right.
Each slice feels familiar yet special, especially when served slightly warm.
Add lemon zest and a touch of cinnamon to keep the sweetness lively. If you want clean slices, let it cool before serving, then add a dollop of whipped cream.
It travels easily to potlucks and backyard barbecues without losing its charm.
When you want something fruity that disappears fast, this is the pick. The aroma alone gets people circling the table.
Blueberry pie is simple, generous, and endlessly celebratory.
6. Peach Pie
Peach pie tastes like sunshine on a plate. Soft slices of fruit melt into a syrupy filling that feels joyful and nostalgic at the same time.
A crisp lattice top lets the juices bubble up beautifully and perfumes the room.
Use ripe peaches and a squeeze of lemon to brighten everything. A pinch of cardamom or ginger makes guests ask what your secret is.
This pie suits celebrations where you want easy elegance without fuss.
Let it cool for cleaner slices, or serve warm for that indulgent drip. Vanilla ice cream or lightly sweetened cream is perfect here.
You will watch it vanish before the last toast is finished.
7. Strawberry Rhubarb Pie
Strawberry rhubarb pie balances sweet and tangy like few desserts can. The color screams party, and the flavor delivers that old school bakery case vibe.
When the lattice shows off glossy fruit, people notice.
Macerrate the fruit with sugar, then thicken carefully so slices hold together. A touch of vanilla or orange zest adds nuance without stealing the spotlight.
This pie fits spring showers, garden parties, and laid back brunches with style.
Serve with whipped cream to soften the tang and highlight the berries. It disappears quickly because it tastes both nostalgic and fresh.
You will want to bake two if guests love tart flavors.
8. Key Lime Pie
Key lime pie is zesty, cool, and ready for warm weather celebrations. The creamy filling hits that sweet tart balance, while the graham crust adds a buttery crunch.
It looks clean and polished on a dessert table with minimal effort.
Fresh lime juice makes a real difference, and extra zest brings fragrance. Chill the pie thoroughly for tidy slices that stand tall.
A soft whipped cream crown completes the look without weighing it down.
If you want something refreshing after a heavy meal, this is the move. It travels well and feels special without being fussy.
Expect people to ask for another sliver, then another.
9. Lemon Meringue Pie
Lemon meringue pie brings drama with those towering, toasted peaks. Underneath, the curd is bright and tart, cutting through sweetness while feeling celebratory.
It makes a statement the second it appears, like a spotlight on your dessert table.
Use fresh lemon juice and cornstarch for a custard that slices clean. Whip the meringue to firm peaks, then toast until golden for bakery level flair.
Serve soon after assembling to keep everything at its best.
Guests love the contrast of fluffy meringue and sharp citrus. It is perfect for spring gatherings and milestones that need sparkle.
One bite, and the room wakes up a little.
10. Chocolate Cream Pie
Chocolate cream pie is the no brainer choice when you want guaranteed smiles. The silky pudding style filling tastes rich but not heavy, especially under a cloud of whipped cream.
Chocolate shavings on top tell everyone they are in for a treat.
Use quality cocoa and chocolate for depth, and a pinch of espresso powder to amplify flavor. A cookie crumb crust adds contrast and an easy press in finish.
Chill well so slices stand tall and neat.
Bring this to birthdays or any event where second helpings are a sure thing. It is pure comfort, polished just enough for a celebration.
Save an extra slice for later, if you can.
11. Coconut Cream Pie
Coconut cream pie brings tropical charm and texture to the party. The custard is lush and velvety, while toasted coconut on top adds crunch and aroma.
It looks fancy even though it is wonderfully approachable.
Use coconut milk for fuller flavor, then fold in whipped cream for an airy finish. Toasted flakes scattered over pillowy topping make every slice feel special.
It pairs beautifully with coffee or a bubbly toast.
When you want a dessert that feels a little extra, this delivers. It slices cleanly after a good chill and travels well to potlucks.
Expect happy sighs and empty plates soon after serving.
12. Banana Cream Pie
Banana cream pie is nostalgic in the best way. Slices of ripe banana tuck into smooth custard, and a buttery cookie crust keeps it easy to serve.
Whipped topping makes it look cloudlike and celebration ready.
A touch of vanilla bean or rum adds grown up depth. To prevent browning, brush the banana slices with lemon juice before layering.
Chill thoroughly so each slice holds its shape at the table.
This pie feels perfect for family gatherings where comfort leads. It is sweet but gentle, ideal after a hearty meal.
Expect people to reminisce while they go back for seconds.
13. French Silk Pie
French silk pie whispers special occasion the moment it arrives. The ultra smooth chocolate filling feels luxurious and light at once, like a secret indulgence.
With piped cream and curls on top, it looks like a centerpiece.
Use great chocolate and whip thoroughly for that signature airy texture. A crisp crust, whether pastry or cookie, adds contrast that keeps bites balanced.
Chill overnight for clean slices that hold up under the spotlight.
Bring this when you want something refined without being fussy. Guests will lean in after the first forkful.
It is a dessert that makes even simple dinners feel like a celebration.
14. Peanut Butter Pie
Peanut butter pie is the birthday favorite that never sits long. The filling is creamy, sweet, and unmistakably peanutty, especially against a chocolate cookie crust.
A drizzle of warmed peanut butter with chopped nuts brings texture and flair.
Beat in cream cheese for structure and a pinch of salt to keep it from tasting flat. Chill until firm, then slice confidently for neat wedges.
A light whipped topping cuts the richness in a friendly way.
It is easy to make ahead and travels perfectly to potlucks. People who love peanut butter light up at first bite.
Save a slice for yourself or it will be gone.
15. Cheesecake Pie
Cheesecake pie gives you that beloved cheesecake flavor in a lighter, pie friendly form. The filling sits lower, so slices feel generous without knocking you out.
A graham crust brings that signature toasty sweetness everyone expects.
Beat the batter gently to avoid cracks and keep the texture silky. Chill until set, then crown with fresh berries or a quick compote.
It looks clean and polished on any dessert spread.
When you want cheesecake energy without the fuss, this is perfect. It pairs well with coffee and makes an easy make ahead option.
Guests will nod, smile, and reach for another forkful.
16. Custard Pie
Custard pie is simple, creamy, and quietly impressive. The silky texture and gentle sweetness make it a comforting closer to any meal.
A whisper of nutmeg on top gives old fashioned bakery charm that people love.
Bake low and slow so the custard sets without cracking. Let it cool completely for clean, tidy slices that glide onto plates.
It fits family celebrations where tradition matters but fuss does not.
Serve chilled or at cool room temperature with berries on the side. Every bite feels soothing and familiar.
When the table needs something understated yet special, custard pie steps in gracefully.
17. Sweet Potato Pie
Sweet potato pie brings warmth and tradition to holiday and Sunday tables. The filling is velvety with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of vanilla, creating gentle sweetness that lingers.
It feels homey yet worthy of applause when sliced.
Roast the sweet potatoes for deeper flavor and a naturally sweet base. A splash of evaporated milk keeps the texture plush without heaviness.
Serve with whipped cream and maybe a sprinkle of pecans for crunch.
When you want comfort wrapped in celebration, this delivers beautifully. It travels well and tastes even better the next day.
Expect quiet smiles and satisfied sighs around the table.
18. Mixed Berry Pie
Mixed berry pie is the colorful answer when you want the best of everything. Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries combine for a juicy, jewel toned filling.
The look alone brightens a dessert table and gets guests hovering.
Balance sweetness with lemon juice and a touch of vanilla. Use enough thickener so slices stand tall without losing that luscious flow.
A sugar sprinkled top adds sparkle and a tiny crunch.
This pie works for birthdays, graduations, and outdoor cookouts. It tastes like summer celebration in every bite.
Pair with vanilla ice cream or lightly sweetened cream for the perfect finish.
19. Dutch Apple Crumb Pie
Dutch apple crumb pie takes everything you love about apple pie and adds a buttery blanket of streusel. The topping crisps beautifully, sending cinnamon scented crumbs across each slice.
Inside, tender apples deliver nostalgic comfort.
Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for balance, and let them soften just enough. A touch of lemon brightens the filling so it never feels heavy.
Serve warm so the streusel sings and the room smells incredible.
This pie feels extra cozy for fall parties and weekend gatherings. A drizzle of caramel pushes it into celebratory territory.
People will angle for those crumb heavy corner slices.
20. Pumpkin Chiffon Pie
Pumpkin chiffon pie is the lighter, fluffier cousin of the classic. The airy filling feels like a pumpkin cloud, balancing spice and sweetness without weight.
It looks refined and slices beautifully after a good chill.
Fold whipped cream into a spiced pumpkin base set with gelatin for that signature loft. A graham or pastry crust both work, depending on your mood.
Finish with rosettes and a dusting of cinnamon for sparkle.
Bring this when you want seasonal flavor with an elegant touch. Guests who usually skip heavy desserts will say yes.
It floats off the plate and into happy memories.
