Martine’s Pastries in Lexington, Kentucky, has become a beloved destination for pie lovers, especially as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches. The bakery is buzzing with excitement as customers flock to grab their boxed treats, with a particular emphasis on their wide range of pies available during their annual Pie Day event.
On the eve of Thanksgiving, Martine’s showcases an impressive selection of flavors, including minced pie, blueberry streusel, chocolate, cherry strudel, apple, and pumpkin. According to Samantha Burke, head of the pastry department, preparation for this special day begins months ahead of time. Burke meticulously analyzes order trends, projecting the necessary quantities based on previous years’ sales to ensure everything is well-stocked, from dried fruits to pie tins.
The baking process ramps up in earnest about a week prior to Pie Day, with most pie fillings completed in a single day. However, certain flavors, like the apple pie, require a bit more attention, as fresh apples and raisins are soaked in whiskey to enhance their flavor before encasing them in flaky crusts.
To cater to the high demand, the bakery doubles its orders. For example, if they anticipate needing 40 apple pies, they will prepare 80, guaranteeing that there will be enough to satisfy eager customers. Burke takes pride in crafting pies that blend traditional and innovative flavors, noting their special apple pie recipe, which combines fresh and dried apples, giving it a unique twist with a classic French influence.
The teamwork behind Pie Day at Martine’s is evident. Burke describes the joy of seeing everything come together, highlighting the organized chaos that fills the bakery in the early hours as they prepare orders for the day.
While Martine’s Pastries will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, customers can still place orders for pies after the holiday by calling ahead, ensuring that the sweet tradition continues even beyond the festive day.
Overall, the dedication and creativity at Martine’s Pastries not only strengthen community ties during the holiday season but also showcase the joy and love that go into each pie. As families gather around their tables for Thanksgiving, the baked goods from Martine’s will undoubtedly be part of many cherished memories.