If you’ve ever stepped into Carolina Pie Company in Mooresville and felt like you were walking into your grandma’s kitchen, that’s no accident. For Melanie Barker, pie isn’t just dessert; it’s a legacy.
“Carolina Pie was started by my dad about 15 years ago,” she shared. “His family were bakers, and his favorite dessert is pie. When he struggled to find good pie in the area, he saw his chance to show the community what quality scratch-made pie was!”
And show the community, he did. What started as a craving for a good slice of pie has grown into a beloved bakery known for fresh ingredients, buttery crusts, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that reflects Melanie’s own Massachusetts roots. “Carolina Pie is all about bringing pies to the table that would resemble the pies your grandma made,” she said. “We are committed to baking with fresh ingredients and making each component of our pies from scratch, from the fillings, crust, to the whipped cream we top our pies with.”
What truly sets their pies apart?
“We hear a lot about our crust and how GOOD it is!” Melanie laughed. “When my dad first started making pies, he was committed to making a crust that could be enjoyed on its own, and he succeeded. Most crusts are the afterthought to the pie, and left on the plate. Our crust, for many of our customers, is the star of the show.”
Innovation is another hallmark of Carolina Pie Company. “We love creating and testing new flavors,” Melanie explained. “When we have an idea or are inspired by a combination of flavors we enjoy, it sometimes makes its way to pie.” One crowd favorite? “The Frozen Margarita Pie is inspired by my favorite drink. We took the high points, the tart lime, tequila, and salt, and made it into a zesty lime ice cream pie, spiked with tequila and set in a salty pretzel crust.”
While some family recipes and techniques are kept under wraps, others are shared with the community. “Our pie classes are a great place to learn some tips on making dough and rolling crust,” she said.
The love and support of Mooresville have helped the bakery flourish. And while every day is special, one stands out above the rest: “In 2021, we were invited by the White House to come and display our pies and were able to meet President Trump. That was a surreal experience!”
As for bestsellers, the classics still reign supreme. “Apple pie is always at the top of the list, but our Bumbleberry pie, strawberry, blueberry, blackberry, and raspberry, as well as our Key Lime pie, are some of the top sellers,” Melanie noted.
Customers can also experience the fun of baking through Carolina Pie’s events. “This past year was our first year giving away free pie slices for Pi(e) Day (3/14). It was a big success and we hope to do it every year, so mark your calendar!”
Weddings and special events are another slice of their business. “Most of the catering we do is for weddings or functions,” she said. “Our 4” cutie pies are very popular for events because they are so CUTE with a variety of ways to display them and easy to serve.”
Despite the challenges of running a small-batch bakery, Melanie finds the rewards deeply personal.
“We love getting to know our customers. There is something about pie that’s different from all other desserts. Our customers have stories, recipes, memories and experiences they share revolving around a certain pie or relative who made that pie. We love hearing these stories!”
If she could bake a pie for anyone? “My Grandma,” Melanie said without hesitation. “My love of baking and cooking and hospitality was sparked by her as a young kid. She passed when I was 11 and I think she’d be really, really proud of our pies. I would make her our Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble, it reminds me of a nutty strawberry dessert she would make us.”
And for those who haven’t stopped by yet? Melanie has a sweet invitation: “We love baking for our community! There is always something in our bakery case for purchase in 4” and 9” sizes and samples in the store to enjoy, so come on by! We’d love to get to know you!”
From scratch crusts to heartfelt connections, Carolina Pie Company is more than just a bakery, it’s a slice of home.
Carolina Pie Company is located at 136 Stutts Road in Mooresville, NC, just minutes from the lake and full of small-town charm. Whether you’re craving a classic slice or curious to try one of their creative seasonal flavors, it’s the perfect spot to satisfy your sweet tooth. You can check out their full menu, place an order, or learn more about their story at carolinapie.com.
