Inklingo

How to Say "pie" in Spanish

English → Spanish

tarta

tar-taˈtaɾta

nounA1general
Use 'tarta' for a general baked dish with a crust and filling, especially sweet ones like fruit tarts or when the specific type of pie (like apple or strawberry) is emphasized.
A brightly colored, three-layered celebratory cake decorated with white frosting, colorful sprinkles, and three lit candles, sitting on a simple serving platter.

Examples

Pedimos una tarta de fresas para el postre.

We ordered a strawberry tart for dessert.

¿Quieres un trozo de tarta o prefieres helado?

Do you want a slice of cake or do you prefer ice cream?

Mi madre prepara una tarta de queso que es famosa en el barrio.

My mother makes a cheesecake that is famous in the neighborhood.

Gender Check

Since 'tarta' ends in -a, it is a feminine noun. Always use feminine articles and adjectives with it (e.g., 'la tarta,' 'una tarta deliciosa').

Confusing 'Tarta' and 'Pastel'

Mistake: “Using 'tarta' in Mexico or Central America when talking about a large birthday cake.”

Correction: In many Latin American countries, 'pastel' or 'torta' is the usual word for a large cake, while 'tarta' usually refers specifically to a tart or pie. In Spain, 'tarta' is used for both.

pai

pah-eeˈpai

nounA1general
Use 'pai' when specifically referring to a sweet dessert pie, often with fruit filling, similar to the English usage.
A freshly baked fruit pie with a lattice crust on a wooden table.

Examples

De postre quiero un pai de manzana.

For dessert, I want an apple pie.

Este pai de limón está delicioso.

This lemon pie is delicious.

Mi abuela hace el mejor pai de queso.

My grandma makes the best cheesecake/cheese pie.

Spelling Variations

You might see this spelled as 'pay' or 'pie' (using the English spelling). 'Pai' is the phonetic spelling that matches how Spanish speakers pronounce the English word.

The 'Foot' Confusion

Mistake: “Thinking 'pai' means the body part.”

Correction: The word for 'foot' is 'pie,' but it is pronounced 'pee-ay.' This word, 'pai,' is pronounced like 'pie' in English and always refers to the food.

pastel

pas-TELpasˈtɛl

nounB1general
Use 'pastel' for savory baked dishes with a crust and filling, such as a pot pie or shepherd's pie.
A savory, deep-dish pot pie with a golden, flaky crust, placed on a wooden cutting board.

Examples

Mi abuela prepara un delicioso pastel de papa con queso.

My grandmother makes a delicious potato pie with cheese (or shepherd's pie).

Pedimos un pastel de carne en el restaurante.

We ordered a meat pie at the restaurant.

Sweet vs. Savory is Key

The most common mistake is using 'pastel' for sweet pies. While 'pastel' can sometimes refer to sweet cakes, when translating the English concept of 'pie,' remember that 'tarta' and 'pai' are typically for sweet dessert pies, and 'pastel' leans towards savory baked dishes.

Related Translations

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