There’s something deeply comforting about pie. Maybe it’s the flaky, golden crust that hugs a gooey filling like it’s trying to keep your taste buds warm.
Or maybe it’s the nostalgia baked into every slice—grandma’s kitchen, Sunday dinners, or that one awkward Thanksgiving where the pie saved the day.
Now, if you’re like most of us and find yourself cruising the aisles of Walmart for a quick dessert fix, you’ve probably been lured in by those shiny plastic pie containers promising all kinds of sweet satisfaction.
Some deliver pure bliss. Others? Well, let’s just say they should come with a warning label. To save you from post-dessert regret—or to help you discover a new favorite—here’s our list of the 5 best and 5 worst pies from Walmart’s bakery.
It’s a wild ride through flaky highs and soggy lows, all served with a generous helping of real opinions and a sprinkle of sass.
1. Marketside Cherry Hand Pie
This portable treat seems like a convenient option for cherry pie enthusiasts on the go. However, the overwhelming sweetness of the filling can leave you in a sugar-induced daze.
Many pie lovers find the crust disappointingly lacking in that signature flakiness that makes a pie irresistible. The filling, while vibrant red and enticing, often feels like a sugary overload rather than a fruity delight.
If you’re after a cherry pie experience that hits all the right notes, you might want to keep searching. This hand pie might not satisfy your cherry cravings.
2. Freshness Guaranteed Bourbon Apple Pie
Apple pie with a twist? Sounds intriguing, right? This pie boasts a hint of bourbon, but the flavor is so subtle it might as well be a whisper.
You might find yourself questioning if this pie was ever acquainted with bourbon at all. The overall taste doesn’t stray far from your everyday apple pie, which can be a letdown if you’re expecting something more adventurous.
While it’s a decent apple pie, the promised bourbon twist feels more like an unfulfilled promise. If you’re a bourbon lover, this pie may not hit the right notes.
3. Freshness Guaranteed 8-Inch Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin pie is a seasonal delight, but this one has its critics. The Freshness Guaranteed 8-Inch Pumpkin Pie has left some pie enthusiasts feeling a bit deflated.
The crust often crumbles with a touch that’s too gentle, making it a challenge to serve a clean slice. Some say it lacks the rich pumpkin flavor you’d expect, leaning more towards a bland mousse.
Another common gripe is the texture, which strays into the realm of mushiness rather than maintaining that firm, satisfying bite. If you’re a stickler for a crust that’s both flaky and robust, you might find yourself reaching for the baking pan to finish what this pie started.
The flavor dance of spices should complement the pumpkin but here, it sometimes steps out of rhythm. Add a scoop of whipped cream, and maybe it redeems itself, but many feel it’s not enough to save the day.
This pie might be better reserved for those who appreciate a milder taste or are willing to doctor it up a bit at home. For others, the quest for the perfect pumpkin pie continues!
4. Great Value S’mores Pie
S’mores conjure memories of campfires and starry nights, but the Great Value S’mores Pie doesn’t quite capture that nostalgic magic.
At first glance, it promises the comforting trio of graham cracker crust, chocolate, and marshmallow, but something feels amiss. The graham crust comes across as dull, lacking that expected crunch and flavor that brings s’mores to life.
As for the chocolate filling, richness is what you hope for, but it seems to fall flat, leaving a longing for more depth. Then, there’s the marshmallow topping, which, upon thawing, takes on a goopy texture that’s less than inviting.
It’s almost like a bad magic trick, where the elements are there, but the spark is missing. While some may revel in its simplicity, true s’mores aficionados might want to keep searching for that perfect pie that truly echoes the spirit of a fireside treat.
Adding a personal touch with extra chocolate or marshmallows might bring it closer to the campfire classic.
5. Freshness Guaranteed No Sugar Added Apple Pie
No sugar, no problem? That’s the question posed by Walmart’s Freshness Guaranteed No Sugar Added Apple Pie.
Designed with diabetics in mind, it offers an alternative to those watching their sugar intake, but it may not hit the sweet spot for all. Some laud its effort to provide a pie without the guilt, yet others notice a distinct difference in taste compared to its sugary counterparts.
The apples themselves are tender and appear well-cooked, but the overall flavor can seem muted or lacking that bright zest that makes apple pies so inviting. It’s like a whisper of apple pie, rather than a hearty shout.
For those seeking a traditional apple pie experience, it might feel like it’s missing the main act. Though it serves an important niche, it’s a pie that may require a creative touch to fully shine.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg to awaken its flavors, and it could become a favorite for those needing or preferring a no-sugar option.
1. Marketside Apple Pie
Apple pie is a timeless classic, and Marketside Apple Pie captures its essence beautifully. With large, tender apple slices mingling with crunchy pecans, each bite tells a story of autumn comfort and nostalgia.
The crust holds a flaky promise that doesn’t disappoint, enveloping the filling with a warm, buttery embrace. It’s a pie that whispers of homemade care, bringing forth the simplicity and coziness of a family gathering.
The pecans add a nutty surprise that elevates the experience, providing a contrast that delights the senses. You can almost imagine it cooling on a windowsill, inviting everyone with its sweet aroma.
Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and it’s a dessert that can turn an ordinary day into something special.
2. Patti LaBelle’s Sweet Potato Pie
Patti LaBelle’s Sweet Potato Pie has been a sensation since its introduction, hailed for bringing soul food to the masses.
This pie offers a rich, velvety smooth filling, reminiscent of homemade goodness that only a diva like Patti could inspire. Its flavor sings with warmth and comfort, a symphony of sweet potatoes, buttery richness, and just the right hint of spice.
The crust is a complementary partner, providing a tender foundation that holds the pie’s heart. For fans of sweet potatoes, it’s a love letter baked into a pastry, promising satisfaction with each forkful.
The pie’s popularity isn’t just hype; it’s a genuine crowd-pleaser that has found its way to many dessert tables. Enjoy it warm or cold, and it never fails to hit the right notes.
With over 65 million sold, it’s a testament to the universal appeal of a pie crafted with love and a dash of star power.
3. Marketside Blueberry Pie
Blueberry lovers rejoice! The Marketside Blueberry Pie is a celebration of nature’s candy, filled to the brim with real, juicy blueberries that burst with flavor.
Each bite carries a balance of sweet and tart, reminiscent of a summer’s day in a countryside orchard. The crust is a golden masterpiece, offering a delicate crunch that harmonizes beautifully with the filling.
No artificial flavors here; this pie pays homage to the authentic taste of blueberries, capturing their essence in every mouthful. Ideal for those seeking a lighter, fruit-forward dessert, it stands out with its vibrant, natural allure.
Whether enjoyed on its own or with a dollop of cream, it brings a slice of sunshine to any occasion, making it a delightful choice for berry enthusiasts.
4. Freshness Guaranteed Lemon Meringue Pie
Bright and zesty, the Freshness Guaranteed Lemon Meringue Pie is a refreshing twist on traditional fruit pies.
The lemon filling is a dance of sour and sweet, offering a citrusy punch that wakes up the palate. The meringue topping, fluffy and cloud-like, adds a touch of elegance and whimsy to this vibrant dessert. The pie’s crust acts as a sturdy base, allowing the lemon and meringue to shine without distraction.
It’s a pie that evokes sunny days and breezy afternoons, a lighthearted indulgence that leaves a lasting impression.
Perfect for those who crave a tangy treat, it’s a dessert that stands out, offering a break from the ordinary. Pair it with a glass of iced tea, and it’s a match made in dessert heaven, promising a delightful end to any meal.
5. Patti LaBelle’s Blackberry Cobbler
Patti LaBelle’s Blackberry Cobbler is a tribute to comfort and tradition, enveloping you in a hug of warm, fruity goodness.
The cobbler is a medley of whole blackberries and a buttery crust, sweetened with granulated sugar that adds a delightful crunch. Blackberries bring their characteristic blend of sweet and tart, creating a symphony of flavors that dance across the tongue.
The crust, adorned with sugar crystals, is a perfect contrast to the juicy filling, and the chewy seeds add an earthy texture that’s both satisfying and soul-soothing.
It’s a cobbler that pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, making every serving a celebration. For those who appreciate a dessert steeped in tradition, this cobbler is an ode to the simple pleasures of life.
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